The 10 Best Movies About Native Americans

As Flower Moon Killer continues to dominate the box office, Native American films are in the spotlight for many film lovers. In the realm of cinema, few subjects have fascinated and enriched storytelling as profoundly as the rich diversity of Native American culture and history. Native American films provide a unique and compelling look into the lives, struggles, and triumphs of the indigenous peoples who have inhabited North America for thousands of years. These cinematic narratives are a testament to the enduring spirit of Indigenous communities, their enduring connection to the land, and their resilience in the face of centuries of adversity.

10. Jeremiah Johnson (1972)

This film, starring Robert Redford, tells the story of a man who seeks solitude in the Rocky Mountains and befriends a Crow Indian. It is known for its breathtaking scenery and discovery of frontier life.

Jeremiah Johnson is a cinematic masterpiece that celebrates the allure of the American frontier while recognizing the importance of Native American cultures during this time. It represents a journey of self-discovery, exploring themes such as identity, the profound influence of nature and the complexities of cultural exchange. Through its compelling storytelling and stunning images, the film continues to captivate audiences, resonate, and cement its place in the canon of films exploring the Native American experience.

9. Windtalker (2002)

A war film that highlights the Navajo Code Talkers during World War II and highlights their important contributions. It is known for its historical significance and depiction of Native American heroes. The courage of the Code Talkers and the contributions of Native Americans to American history are explored in Windtalker from a fresh and compelling perspective. It honors the courage and perseverance of those who went unheralded and ensures their narrative is not lost to history. The film is an important contribution to the canon of Native American films as it illuminates the complex relationship between cultural identity, patriotism, and the stresses of war.

8th. Black robe (1991)

Set in 17th century New France, this film follows a Jesuit priest’s journey to a Huron mission. It is known for its historical accuracy and complex depiction of cultural conflicts. The historical accuracy of Black robe and its exploration of the tense dynamics created by cultural mixing has made it a fan favorite. It expands the canon of films about this period by offering a glimpse into the period and a respectful analysis of the difficulties faced by both European settlers and indigenous peoples.

7. Powwow Highway (1989)

A road trip film starring two Northern Cheyenne men who embark on a journey of self-discovery. It is appreciated for its character-based narrative and exploration of contemporary issues. The story and characters in Powwow Highway have received high praise for their authenticity and ability to convey something to viewers. The film takes an intimate look at the lives of its protagonists and, in turn, the struggles faced by Native American communities across the United States. It has had a significant impact in promoting authentic representations of Indigenous voices in film, gaining a loyal and vocal fan base in the process.

6. Atanarjuat: The fast runner (2001)

A groundbreaking Canadian film set in the Arctic and based on an ancient Inuit legend. It is celebrated for its stunning images and representation of Indigenous storytelling traditions. An extraordinary and realistic look into Inuit culture and storytelling. Atanarjuat: The fast runner is a cinematic gem. It was highly appreciated by the critics and won the main prize of the Cannes Film Festival, the Camera d’Or.

5. Skins (2002)

This drama explores the lives of two Lakota Sioux brothers living on the Pine Ridge Reservation. It is praised for its uncompromising portrayal of the challenges faced by Native Americans in impoverished communities.

Skins is a powerful and moving portrayal of Native American life on the reservation and the difficulties these people face. It unflinchingly looks at the lives of its protagonists and, by extension, the larger concerns facing indigenous groups in the United States, without any filter or lack of compassion. Because of its accurate depiction of modern Native American life and its fascinating narrative, Skins has become a milestone in this genre.

4. Thunderheart (1992)

Inspired by true events, this thriller explores the conflicts on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation in the 1970s. The film is appreciated for its exciting narrative and portrayal of the FBI’s involvement in Native American affairs.

A captivating and thought-provoking film, Thunderheart illuminates a pivotal time in Native American history. It addresses issues of cultural preservation, identity and the search for justice in the face of hardship. It is a pivotal film in Native American cinema as it depicts the hardships and successes of Native American communities in its narrative and characters.

3. The last of the Mohicans (1992)

Based on the classic novel by James Fenimore Cooper, this film follows the adventures of Hawkeye and the Mohican tribe during the French and Indian War. It is known for its action sequences and unforgettable characters.

The last of the Mohicans combines romance, action and historical drama in a way that has captivated audiences for decades. It has had a lasting impact on the portrayal of Native Americans in film and is an example of how exciting and respectful historical storytelling can be in the portrayal of indigenous peoples.

2. Smoke signals (1998)

This independent film examines contemporary Native American life and the journey of two young men from Coeur d’Alene. It is celebrated for its humour, insight and unique perspective on Indigenous identity. It was the first feature film written, directed and co-produced by Native Americans and received critical acclaim for its originality and emotional impact. The film has become a touchstone in Native American cinema, providing a voice and a lens through which to explore the complexities of Indigenous identity and culture.

1. Dance with wolves (1990)

Directed and starring Kevin Costner, this epic film tells the story of a Union Army officer who befriends the Lakota Sioux. It is praised for its depiction of Native American culture and garners respect for its authenticity and cinematography.

Dance with wolves was a commercial and critical success and won seven Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Director for Kevin Costner. It also played a crucial role in raising awareness of Native American themes and cultures in mainstream cinema. The film’s continued popularity and positive reception underscore its enduring significance as a cinematic masterpiece that explores the beauty and resilience of Native American heritage in the face of profound change.

From epic historical dramas documenting the clash of cultures during the European colonization of the Americas to contemporary stories exploring the complexities of modern Native American life, these films serve as both a tribute to heritage and a reflection on the challenges that indigenous communities face. Set against a backdrop of breathtaking landscapes, these films offer viewers the opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the diverse traditions, languages ​​and perspectives that have shaped Native American identity.