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Native American Filmmakers & Movies

By May 26, 2023August 31st, 2023Movies and TV

Native American
Filmmakers, Movies, & More!

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The culturally rich, history-packed movies, TV shows, and notable filmmakers from Native American Media are an excellent resource for insight into a world you may not know much about. This enticing quality of Native American movies is one of the top reasons they are cinematic masterpieces and some of history’s most enriching and action-packed depictions.

Why should you spend your time engaging in these empowering forms of media? Native American Media and Film are vital in understanding, respecting, and correcting previous social injustice in the representations of Native Americans.

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Film obsessed? History nerd? Or just an inquisitive soul that enjoys learning about the lives of others? Native American Film has all the components that make up an exciting snippet of valuable culture, from action scenes to pure shows of emotion originating from its Native American Filmmaker.

Understanding the world of Native Americans is only the first step in the journey that the films we recommend you watch will take you on. Once you understand, you will feel empathy and appreciate the beauty of the culture that the Native American communities present to you.

History of Native Americans in Media / History of Native Americans in Media / History of Native Americans in Media / History of Native Americans in Media / History of Native Americans in Media / History of Native Americans in Media / History of Native Americans in Media / History of Native Americans in Media /

History of
Native Americans
in Media

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This article will walk you through the history of Native Americans in the Media, from early depictions to modern-day representations.

Understanding the historic foundations behind these brilliantly crafted movies is essential before we dive into some of the most notable Native American actors, filmmakers, and films.

We’ll even touch on some great, child-friendly, educating movies and TV shows that are incredible resources for children to enhance their understanding of Native American culture and maybe even inspire them to pursue an education in Native American history.

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Popcorn & Snack Bowl

So get comfy, and grab your Popcorn and Snack bowl because you’re about to be seriously entertained!

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Early
Depictions

Early depictions of Native American communities in media are where the misrepresentation is rooted. Often stereotyping the Native American communities, early forms of media that included the Native American people exhibited themes of savagery or uncivilized manners.

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The Vanishing American

These depictions are nothing but harmful to the representation of Native American communities, actively perpetuating cultural erasure.

An example of media that presents this negative and incorrect front is “The Vanishing American” (1925), but this is not on our list of Native American Films to watch; instead, it is a form of media to avoid.

1960s &
1970s

With the movement of Native American Activists, the 1960s and 1970s saw an alteration in Native American Media. We began to see the push against negative portrayals in movies, and instead, we saw the creation of an understanding and respectful approach to Native American culture.

This boom in correct and positive representation in the media lead to a fast-approaching wave of Native American media and filmmaking production, providing an opening for Native American filmmakers and actors to rise to fame.

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Films such as “The Exiles” (1961) and “Nanook of the North” (1922) are good examples of this rise in positivity, as they highlight Native American Culture in its glory.

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Modern
Depictions

Over time, the representation of Native Americans throughout the media, especially in film and TV shows, has drastically changed who is writing the perspective.

In modern-day Native American movies, we see more and more Native American actors and filmmakers pushing to tell their personal experiences, shaping the Native American narrative from an informed perspective.

Critically Acclaimed Films

This unique and raw approach to media is what adds such an intense reality to Native American media, creating critically acclaimed films such as “Neither Wolf nor Dog’ (2016) and “Wind River” (2017) that have been described as respectful portrayals of Native American Life.

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Importance of Native Americans in Media and Film / Importance of Native Americans in Media and Film / Importance of Native Americans in Media and Film / Importance of Native Americans in Media and Film / Importance of Native Americans in Media and Film / Importance of Native Americans in Media and Film / Importance of Native Americans in Media and Film / Importance of Native Americans in Media and Film /

Importance of
Native Americans
in Media and Film

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Although immense progress has been made throughout the media to undo the disrespectful start that the Native Americans were subjected to, there is still a long journey ahead of filmmaking to work towards a greater understanding.

The importance of accurate media that is being produced today is critical in helping Native American filmmakers and actors to break through the obstacles and previous stereotypes that persist in today’s society.

Understanding all of this rich history before sitting down and choosing a Native American film will help you to appreciate the journey before it, and we’re here to help you make the best well-informed decision on which Native American Filmmakers and movies to support.

Understanding all of this rich history before sitting down and choosing a Native American film will help you to appreciate the journey before it, and we’re here to help you make the best well-informed decision on which Native American Filmmakers and movies to support.

Sit back & Relax

Sit back and relax in your luxurious Octane seating as we run you through some of the most notable actors, filmmakers, and forms of media that will open your eyes to what is the cinematic art of Native American Film.

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Notable Native
American Filmmakers

Although many Native American filmmakers are well-known for their extreme talent and impressive contributions to the representation of Native American communities in the film industry, we have compiled a short list of a few names to look out for when browsing for your next watch!

Their impact on Native American inclusivity in media production is undoubtedly notable, as you will see in some of the oscar-winning films we will mention shortly.

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Taika Waititi

Born on August 16, 1975, Taika Waititi was destined to become a vocal advocate for indigenous representation through media and film. Waititi grew up in New Zealand and was well-educated and proud of his Maori descent.

What We Do in the Shadows

First appearing in the public’s eye, Waititi co-wrote, co-directed, and starred in a 2014 mockumentary, “What We Do in the Shadows.” Here, his exciting career in media creation began, and he wasn’t going to stop until he made his dream a success.

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Marvel Cinematic Universe’s

Marvel Cinematic Universe’s third installment in the Thor series, “Thor: Ragnarok,” took a comedic turn on the series through characters like Korg, a fun and loveable rock-covered alien.

Not only was Waititi praised for his comedic director’s approach to the film, but he starred in the movie and, while wearing a motion capture suit on set, brought his envisionment of Korg to life!

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Academy Award / Jojo Rabbit

Taika Waititi has brought power and recognition to Native American filmmakers worldwide, earning numerous awards for his hard work, such as an Academy Award for “Jojo Rabbit” (2019), his film that won Best Adapted Screenplay.

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Sterlin Harjo

Sterlin Harjo, Native American filmmaker, writer, and producer, is of Seminole and Muscogee Creek descent. Harjo grew up on the Seminole-Muscogee reservation, and her firm roots in Native American culture are prominent within her work.

Harjo documents a complex portrayal of the experiences of Native American people and is known for her challenges towards stereotypes that consume the media. Harjo believes that “Indigenous peoples still do not have a place at the table” and continues her fight for significant representation.

A few examples of Sterlin Harjo’s brilliant films are “Four Sheets to the Wind” (2007)”, which premiered at the Sundance Film Festival, and “Reservation Dogs” (2021), which follows the journey of four Native American teens as they grow up in rural Oklahoma.

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Alanis Obomsawin

Canadian filmmaker and activist Alanis Obomsawin is of Abenaki descent. Most commonly known for her work on pushing the truth about the struggles of indigenous peoples throughout Canada, Obomsawin has created over 50 documentaries on topical issues.

Obomsawin has provided heart within her filmmaking, and her work is recognized for providing Native American communities with a voice to tell their stories.

Chris Eyre

Chris Eyre is a successful filmmaker and a professor of film at the University of Arizona, making his mark through his involvement in Native American culture and education groups.

Eyre focuses his film creation on providing a Native American perspective, with the end goal of humanizing Native Americans and pushing their voice.

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Smoke Signals (1998)

Eyre’s work in “Smoke Signals” (1998) which we will discuss in more detail later in the article, won the Audience Award at the Sundance Film Festival. The masterpiece followed two Native American men on a road trip and was the first Native American-directed film to receive a national theatrical release.

Definitely a Must-See!

Jeff Barnaby

Another creator that captures the themes of Indigenous identity, resistance, and trauma of Native American communities is Jeff Barnaby. Growing up on the Listuguj Mi’gmaq First Nation Reserve, Barnaby is of Mi’kmaq descent.

Barnaby’s works are recognized for their brutal honesty and unflinching portrayals of the reality that Native American peoples face in Canada.

Rhymes for Young Ghouls (2013)

In his first feature film, “Rhymes for Young Ghouls” (2013), Barnaby highlights the painful truth about residential schools and the impact they have on Indigenous groups. “Rhymes for Young Ghouls” follows the story of a young Mi’kmaq girl who is enlisted in a Catholic boarding school against her will and must find her way through the abuse and trauma that occurs here.

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This raw piece of film encompasses the correction of Native American representation in Film that all these notable Native American filmmakers are supporting.

Notable Native
American Actors

The inclusivity of Native American Actors in the Film and television industry has increased drastically over time and is as equally as important as Native American peoples being behind the writing of the content.

Acting as a Native American in the media is prideful and a true use of your voice to change the representation of your people. Here are a few names of actors to look out for when watching your favorite movies, TV shows, and documentaries.

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WES STUDI

Studi is a Cherokee actor who starred in one of the most iconic and classic Native American movies of all time, “Dance with Wolves” (1990). He also features in the famous blockbuster “Avatar” (2009).

Alongside his work in acting, Wes Studi had forever been an activist for Native American representation. Vocal in his opinions on the necessity for more authentic portrayals of Native American characters, Studi and his hard work in the film industry has created more opportunities for Indigenous peoples.

The National Humanities Medal

Studi has been recognized for his talent and morals through his nominations and success in winning the National Humanities Medal in 2019 as well as his multiple honors for his contributions to Native American arts and culture.

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Irene Bedard

Another brilliant actor to look out for, Irene Bedard, is of Inupiaq, Yupik, Cree, and Metis descent. Bedard grew up in numerous communities across Alaska and is best known as the voice of your childhood-favorite Disney character Pocahontas.

Bedard has also appeared in a variety of television and film productions, including “Smoke signals” (1998), “Westworld” (2016-2018), and “Into the West” (2005).

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Somebody’s Daughter

Her vast skill set does not stop with acting. She is also advocating for Native American representation in the film and television industry through her work in filmmaking and producing. Bedard directed “Somebody’s Daughter” (2016), exploring the reality of human trafficking in Native American communities.

Bedard’s capability to show the raw truth of pain across Native American people’s treatment while captivating her audience, enrolling them to actively seek the change of these circumstances, puts her at the top of our notable Native American actors list!

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Gil Birmingham

Born in San Antonio, Texas, in 1953, Gil Birmingham grew up in the rural areas of Texas and Oklahoma, highly connected with his Comanche descent.

Famous for his role in “Twilight” (2008), Birmingham plays the character Billy Black, the chief of the Quileute tribe council.

Birmingham has also appeared in various television productions that you TV fanatics may recognize. “The Lone Ranger” (2013), “Wind River” (2017), or “Yellowstone” (2018-2020) ring any bells?

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Throughout his career in the film and television industry, Gil Birmingham has voiced his position as an advocate for equal and accurate representation for Native American actors and filmmakers, and his success in this matter is spoken for through his high-paying roles.

Birmingham’s life work doesn’t stop at film and media; he also engages in the music sector of the arts. One of his albums, “The Edge,” is noted by its feature of traditional Native American music, as he continues to display his appreciation of Native American culture.

Adam Beach

Adam Beach is another perfect example of Native American actors that are fighting for the stories of Native American peoples to be told in an educated and respectful manner. Beach’s work is often characterized by his commitment to portraying the unique experiences of Native American communities in Canada and the US, bringing these issues to light in mainstream media.

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As a prominent voice in the Native American community in the film industry, Beach and his Anishinaabe descent shines through his work. His most popular roles include playing the character “Victor Joseph” in “Smoke Signals”, and “Private Ben Yahzee” in “Windtalkers” (2002).

Beach also features in “Bury My Heart at Wounded Knee” (2007), a historically correct film based on the US army’s defeat at the Battle of the Little Bighorn and the government’s actions pushing onto Sioux Indian land.

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Octane Heat & Massage chair

Of Oneida descent, Graham Greene is another name to look out for in the credits of your weekly movie sessions and soothing hours of bliss on your Octane Heat and Massage chair, providing you with deep tissue air cell massage and heat therapy.

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Graham Greene

Greene’s work in bringing to light the need for greater opportunity for Native American actors, filmmakers, and more are presented on many fronts. From acting in famous films such as “The Twilight Saga: New Moon”(2009) and the TV series “Longmire” (2012-2017) to creating visual art that has been exhibited in art galleries across Canada and the US, Greene’s name is far from unknown.

Greene’s appearance in “Longmire” pairs well with its themes and storyline that explores Native American history and culture, a great watch that shows Native American characters in a nuanced way.

General Native American Movies / General Native American Movies / General Native American Movies / General Native American Movies / General Native American Movies / General Native American Movies / General Native American Movies / General Native American Movies /

General
Native American
Movies

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Now that we have discussed the beautiful minds and talented actors that work simultaneously to produce the Native American movies and TV shows that you can watch on the big screen, let’s dive into some of the most well-known and well-crafted movies of all time!

Here’s our top five list of general Native American movies and a rundown of the plot without giving too much away!

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1990Dances with Wolves

By: Kevin Costner

Dances with Wolves
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Where To Watch: HBO Max, Prime Video, The Roku Channel, Spectrum TV, Vudu, and Redbox.

This ultimate classic Native American movie, “Dances with Wolves,” has won a total of seven Academy Awards, including Best Picture.

This epic Western film tells the story of a Union army lieutenant called John Dunbar. Dunbar is sent to a remote outpost during his term in the Civil War, which results in him befriending and learning about Native American culture, specifically of the Sioux tribe.

It is argued that this film marks a period of change in film and the representation of Native American communities and is praised for its sensitive treatment of the themes and characters linked to Native American culture and history. Although it is not the picture-perfect example of an accurate representation of Native American peoples, it was definitely a step in the right direction at the time.

The Film receives some criticism over its portrayal of possible savagery stereotypes, but despite this, it still remains an influential film in the history of Native American Film.
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1998Smoke Signals

By: Chris Eyre

Smoke Signals
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Where To Watch: Netflix, and Amazon Prime Video.

Smoke Signals is an independent film directed by Chris Eyre and written by Sherman Alexie. Native American filmmaker Chris Eyre tells an encapsulating story of two young Native American characters. These characters, Victor Joseph and Thomas grow up on a Coeur d’Alene reservation as rivals of some sort, yet friendly to the eye.

This movie entailed themes of alcoholism, violence, savior, and abandonment, and it is sure to keep you entangled in the plot.

The Native American men band together after the loss of their father figure, Arnold, and embark on a journey to retrieve his ashes.

Their journey will expose you to their contrasting perspectives on their cultural heritage, the complex relationship between them, and the strength of love and family. Succeeding in portraying accurate Indigenous experiences, this film was written, directed, and produced by people of Native American descent.

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1992The Last of the Mohicans

By: Michael Mann

The Last of the Mohicans
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Where To Watch: Paramount Plus, Apple TV, Vudu, and Prime Video.

This Native American film will surely be a pick for all you hopeless romantics and maybe even those who seek an escape to an action-packed world!

The Last of the Mohicans is a historical drama based on James Fenimore Cooper's novel “The Last of the Mohicans” and details many shocking and gruesome moments of the French and Indian War in 1757. If you’re a fan of action, this film will likely hit the spot!

The plot follows a unique individual, Hawkeye, and no, that’s not Hawkeye from the Marvel Universe. The Mohican tribe raised Hawkeye, a white man, and so he is culturally acclimated to Native American ways.

You will feel a wave of sadness when you come to understand that Hawkeye, his father, and his brother are the last members of their dying tribe. Following by the heart-warming truth that they have found peace with British colonists, leading to the proud moments in which Hawkeye risks everything to rescue the daughters of a British colonel.

We don’t want to give everything away; just promise us when we say that it’s a worthy watch and a real tear-jerker!

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2002Windtalkers

By: John Woo

Windtalkers
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Where To Watch: Amazon Prime Video and Hulu.

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2009Reel Injun

By: Neil Diamond

Reel Injun
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Where To Watch: Amazon Prime Video

Cree filmmaker Neil Diamond explores the portrayal of North American Indigenous communities by examining the century of Native American cinematography that came before it.

Significant for its exposure to inaccurate and unfair representations of Native American peoples, Reel Injun was inspired by Neil Diamond’s personal experiences.

Diamond recounts his moments as a child growing up in Waskaganish, detailing memories of him and his fellow young Native Americans playing a game often referred to as “Cowboys and Indians”. Diamond states that although he and his friends were, in reality, “Indians,” they all wished to play the part of the “Cowboys” in this school-yard game.

The inaccurate presentation of his culture impacted his own perceptions of Native American people growing up. Once he was old enough to recognize this, he set off on a journey to correct these stereotypes, resulting in this incredibly beautiful documentary that recognizes true Native American culture.

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Family-Friendly
Movies and TV Shows

Although education is the perfect path to correcting society’s perceptions that have been corrupted by inaccurate media representations of Native American people, it’s the honest truth that some of the films discussed previously are not child-friendly.

Here are a few of our favorite family-friendly movies that you can cozy up with your little ones and watch but still present the representation of Native American communities and culture.

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2003Brother Bear

By: Aaron Blaise & Robert Walker

Brother Bear
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Where To Watch: Disney Plus, Apple TV, Redbox, Vudu, and Amazon Prime Video

This Walt Disney Animation film follows a magical plot of a young Inuit boy who, after avenging his brother’s death and killing a bear, is transformed into that very creature.

We follow Kenai as he struggles to come to terms with his identity and Native American culture and is forced to learn to see the world from a different perspective, a perspective of a bear, that is!

This movie is a fun and emotional watch and is sure to make your children chuckle and shed a tear as it explores themes of danger, challenge, family, and forgiveness.
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2019Molly of Denali

By: Uwe Rafael Braun

Molly of Denali
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Where To Watch: PBS KIDS and Amazon Prime Video.

Molly of Denali is a TV show that will have your children asking for one more episode, and you’ll need our binge-watching survival guide for sure! This adventurous series follows Molly Mabray, and it is the first nationally distributed children’s show across America that follows an Alaska Native as the main character.

Molly and her friends explore the world and all it has to offer while learning about culture, history, and language, offering your mini-yous an enriching show they won’t get bored of.
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hidalgo

2004Hidalgo

By: Joe Johnston

Hidalgo
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Where To Watch: Redbox, Amazon Prime Video, and Apple TV.

Known for its thrilling scenes of action and stunning cinema, Hidalgo follows Hopkins, a washed-up cowboy and former rider of the US Cavalry.

With his trusty stead by his side, a mustang named Hidalgo, Hopkins faces many struggles, such as dangerous sandstorms and antagonist bandits. Through his journey, the film captures the beauty of the Arabian desert and is sure to fill your children with second-hand courage!
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Movies on Native
American Culture &
History

Here are our must-watch movies that really zone in on Native American Culture and History.

Grab some popcorn (and probably some tissues) as you embark on an emotional adventure from your own home…

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2009WE SHALL REMAIN

By: Chris Eyre

WE SHALL REMAIN
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Where To Watch: Amazon Prime Video

Although this cinematic masterpiece isn't a movie, we thought it was vital to include this five-episode series of Native American history as it features interviews with scholars, historians, and Native American leaders themselves!

Spanning from the 17th to the 20th century, this documentary series is critically acclaimed for its respectful portrayal of Native American history and culture and holds huge educational potential.
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2007Bury My Heart at Wounded Knee

By: Yves Simoneau

Bury My Heart at Wounded Knee
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Where To Watch: Google Play Movies, Youtube, and Hulu

Although brutal and exposing, this film also brings to light the resistance and resilience of Native American people who had to fight to protect their way of life.

Told through the eyes of historical figures Charles Eastman, a Sioux doctor, and Sitting Bull, a Lakota chief, this film captures an accurate account of Native American history.

The film depicts the often tragic history of Native American communities and touches on themes of colonialism, forced assimilation, and disease. Time to bring out the tissues.
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thunderheart

1992Thunderheart

By: Michael Apted

Thunderheart
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Where To Watch: Apple TV, Amazon Prime Video, Vudu, and Redbox

Loosely based on events at Wounded Knee in 1973, this crime thriller film will fulfill your needs if you’re a lover of crime, investigation, and corruption.

The film follows FBI agent Ray Levoi, played by actor Val Kilmer, as he is sent to investigate a recent murder on a South Dakota reservation. Here, as a man of mixed Sioux and white descent, Levoi is met with the opportunity to reconnect with his Sioux roots.

But this isn’t all he is met with. We are taken on a journey that touches on corruption and political issues as Levoi discovers more than he bargained for.
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Why not pick a few culturally enriching Native American movies from our list and let yourself get lost in a world of interesting, engulfing history?

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Frequently Asked Questions

Do you think there is a current trend in space-related film and TV?

Yes, In recent years, major franchises such as Star Wars and Marvel have popularized a genre of science fiction that explores the possibilities of space exploration and encounters with aliens. There are also other films that focus on more realistic storylines set within the vastness of space, like Gravity or The Martian. Space-related content has become increasingly prevalent across all forms of media, including TV shows like The Orville or movies like Interstellar. Thus, it’s safe to say that space-related content is here to stay for some time.

How has the portrayal of space changed over the years?

The representation of outer space in movies, television shows, books, and other forms of media has changed significantly over the years. Early portrayals of space often depicted it as a dry and barren wasteland filled with dangers like asteroid fields or hostile aliens. However, more recent depictions of space have embraced its beauty by depicting nebulae and galaxies in vivid detail. There has also been an increased focus on the scientific aspects such as exploration missions and discoveries made by mankind. The ongoing advances in technology have allowed for much more realistic depictions of space which further enhances people’s appreciation for it.

Are there any upcoming space-related film or TV projects that audiences are excited about?

Yes, there are several upcoming space-related film and TV projects that audiences are excited about. Some of the most highly anticipated include ‘The Tesla Project’, an Apple TV+ series from Ron Howard and Brian Grazer; the Disney + movie ‘Stargirl’; and Christopher Nolan’s ‘Interstellar’. Other notable upcoming projects include HBO Max’s ‘Away’ starring Hilary Swank and Netflix’s sci-fi drama, ‘Space Force’. All these are sure to excite space enthusiasts around the globe!

What are some of the most iconic space-related film and TV moments?

  1. TheIn Space, No One Can Hear You Scream tagline from the 1979 film Alien.
  2. The opening sequence from 2001: A Space Odyssey.
  3. The Enterprise’s first warp-speed jump from Star Trek.
  4. The Rebel Alliance’s attack on the Death Star from Star Wars.
  5. The discovery of the monolith from 2001: A Space Odyssey.
  6. Hal 9000’s “I’m sorry Dave” line from 2001: A Space Odyssey.
  7. The “Space, the final frontier” opening of Star Trek.
  8. The Millennium Falcon’s jump to light speed from Star Wars.
  9. The iconic Wilhelm scream from Star Wars.
  10. The “Open the Pod Bay Doors” scene from 2001: A Space Odyssey

How do actors prepare for their roles when filming in space?

As of now, there hasn’t been a mainstream film or TV series filmed in space, so there is no definitive answer to how actors would prepare for their roles in such a scenario. However, if and when it happens, the following could be some possible ways actors might prepare for their roles:

  1. Training in space-like environments: Actors could undergo extensive training in environments that simulate the conditions of space. This could include training in zero-gravity, using spacesuits and operating spacecraft, and learning how to deal with emergencies in a space-like setting.
  2. Researching the science behind space travel: Actors could spend time learning about the science behind space travel, the physics of spaceflight, and the effects of space on the human body. They could also read up on the history of space exploration and familiarize themselves with the current state of space technology.
  3. Talking to astronauts: Actors could talk to astronauts who have spent time in space to get a firsthand account of what it’s like to live and work in space. They could also learn about the emotional and psychological effects of long-duration spaceflight.
  4. Consulting with space experts: Actors could consult with space experts such as engineers, astrophysicists, and space policy experts to gain a better understanding of the challenges and opportunities of space exploration.
  5. Working with a space consultant: If the film or TV series is working with a space consultant, the actors could work closely with them to ensure that their performances are as accurate and authentic as possible.
  6. Overall, preparing for a role in a space-themed production would require a lot of research, physical training, and consultation with experts. Actors would need to work hard to make their performances as authentic and convincing as possible.

Do film and TV producers consult with astronauts or other experts to ensure accuracy?

Yes, film and TV producers do consult with astronauts and other experts to ensure accuracy in space-themed productions. They often work with space consultants, who are experts in the field of space exploration, to ensure that the details of the production are as accurate and authentic as possible.

For example, in the movie “Apollo 13,” director Ron Howard consulted with Apollo 13 astronaut Jim Lovell and his wife Marilyn, as well as with other NASA officials, to ensure that the film accurately portrayed the events of the real-life mission. Similarly, for the movie “The Martian,” director Ridley Scott worked closely with NASA scientists to ensure that the science and technology depicted in the film were as accurate as possible.

In addition to consulting with experts, producers of space-themed productions often conduct extensive research and may even send members of the production team to NASA facilities or other space-related locations to gain a better understanding of the subject matter.

Overall, accuracy is an important consideration for producers of space-themed productions, and they take great care to ensure that their depictions of space exploration are as true to life as possible.

Are there any challenges associated with filming space movies or TV shows?

Yes, there are many challenges associated with filming space movies or TV shows. This includes recreating the low-gravity environment of space in a studio setting and dealing with the extreme temperatures present in outer space. Another challenge is creating intricate sets that accurately depict both large and small spacecraft, as well as planets and galaxies. There are also special effects to consider when replicating cosmic phenomena like meteors or other astronomical events. The process of writing a believable plot while still keeping true to scientific facts can be quite challenging as well.

How does the use of CGI and other special effects affect the way space is portrayed?

The use of CGI and special effects has allowed filmmakers to accurately portray space on the big screen. CGI can generate incredibly realistic images of galaxies, stars, planets, asteroids, and other cosmic bodies that are far beyond what traditional special effects can create. It has also allowed for more accurate depictions of phenomena like black holes, wormholes, and nebula clouds. On top of this, it gives filmmakers the capability to create a highly immersive experience for viewers by taking them into far-off worlds or showing them powerful cosmic events in extreme detail.

Do adults and children react differently to on-screen portrayals of space?

While children tend to be more open-minded and excited about the possibilities of space exploration, adults may be more likely to take a measured approach based on past experiences or established beliefs. On-screen portrayals often emphasize the awe and mystery of space, which can encourage viewers to broaden their perspective and think differently about it. This can lead to increased support for sciences such as astronomy, astrophysics, and related fields. Ultimately, when done correctly, films and TV shows that depict space help foster scientific curiosity while inspiring audiences to learn more about our universe.

How does the portrayal of space in film and TV influence the public's perception of it?

The portrayal of space in film and TV has had a huge influence on the public’s perception of it. Movies like Star Wars, The Martian, and Gravity have made space exploration more accessible to the masses and demonstrate its potential for awe-inspiring adventure. Through these stories, people have come to recognize that space can be used for scientific discovery, technological advancement, and even entertainment. These stories also bring attention to topics such as climate change, international cooperation, extraterrestrial life forms, and other related themes which are often overlooked by those not directly involved in space exploration. As a result of this portrayal in film and TV media, the public is becoming increasingly aware of what goes on beyond our planet’s atmosphere.