Ten Indigenous Films You Need to Watch

Ten Indigenous Films You Need to Watch

Calling all film enthusiasts: If you're searching for a captivating cinematic experience that dives into the Indigenous American culture, look no further!

While Native people and their stories are historically underrepresented in television and film, we are seeing more portrayals and storylines recently pop up in the media. Despite a general lack of representation, the classic Indigenous favorites everyone loves continue to be in the spotlight. These remarkable films weave together powerful narratives. They also shed light on historical struggles, showcase modern resilience, and celebrate the diverse heritage of Indigenous communities.

So grab your favorite snack and get comfy. Let’s take a trip down memory lane for those who are familiar with them, or for those who are newbies to Native film, let’s introduce the top ten favorite Indigenous American movies. 


Powwow Highway (1989)

Who doesn’t love a heartfelt adventure? Go on a wild road trip with two Native American friends, Philbert and Buddy. Armed with humor and determination, they set out in a dilapidated car to rescue Philbert's sister from an unjust arrest. Along the way, they encounter quirky characters, engage in spiritual quests, and confront the challenges of contemporary Native life, making this film a unique blend of adventure, humor, and cultural exploration.

Important Native themes in this movie include identity and spirituality.

Powwow Highway has a 7.2/10 on IMDb reviews, and 96% of Google reviewers liked this movie – this sounds like a winner! 

One 10/10 reviewer says, “This film has a lot of heart. Gary Farmer's character is one of the most likable in recent memory. His dignity, kindness, and spirituality are inspiring and endearing. Few films work so subtly to create such an indelible, sympathetic, and wholly uplifting message. Set amid the vile conditions faced by Cherokee reservation natives, the movie has much to say to all about responsibility, justice, and above all, love. Can't recommend this film highly enough!”

Stream on Amazon Prime Video



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Dances with Wolves (1990)

If you still haven’t seen Dances with Wolves, you are missing out! Kevin Costner directs this epic western and plays a disillusioned Civil War soldier who immerses himself in the Lakota Sioux tribe and befriends a wolf (Two Socks), symbolizing the Sioux culture. As he learns their ways, he develops a deep bond with the tribe and finds himself torn between loyalty and the forces of colonization. This visually stunning film challenges conventional narratives, offering a captivating exploration of cultural understanding and the clash of civilizations.

Embrace the themes in Dances with Wolves, which include loyalty, love, and healing. 

Dances with Wolves has an 8/10 on IMDb reviews, and 91% of Google reviewers enjoyed this classic movie. 

A non-Native reviewer shares one reason why they gave the movie a 10/10:

“One of the main reasons why I loved “Dances With Wolves” is not just because it's a great movie, but because it's a very realistic movie. For the first time in a long time–or probably ever–we are shown what Native Americans were really like. Throughout history, Native Americans have been shown as barbaric savages with no intent but to murder and kill. But this movie shows that they were nothing at all like that, and it is correct. Native Americans were people, just like us. They only killed when they deemed it necessary: self-defense, protection of their land, beliefs, and so on. And it shows that just like us, they can hate, love, laugh, and cry. This movie also shows that Native American societies had both good and bad in them, no different than us.”

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Stream on Amazon Prime Video


The Last of the Mohicans (1992)

Do you remember reading the novel of this classic adventure, originally published in 1826? If not, you can watch the movie tonight. It is set during the French and Indian War. It follows Hawkeye, a rugged frontiersman, as he teams up with the Mohican tribe and falls in love with Cora, the daughter of a British officer. Packed with breathtaking action, beautiful landscapes, and a passionate romance, this film immerses you in the turmoil of war and the unforgettable characters.

Native themes in this movie include the natural world, resilience, escape, pursuit, and rescue. 

The Last of the Mohicans has a 94% rating on Rotten Tomatoes – and we all know if Rotten Tomatoes likes it, then we all need to see it! 

Here is a 10/10 reviewer who didn’t expect this movie to be a favorite – but it turned out to be:

“This was one of those movies I didn't expect that much when I first saw it, so I was pleasantly surprised. Since then, it has skyrocketed to nearly the top on my list of all-time favorite films. I can't think of too many other adventure films that are better. Just a great, great movie.”

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Stream on Amazon Prime Video


Smoke Signals (1998)

Here is another easygoing adventure movie for you and the family. In this comedy-drama, we follow the journey of Victor Joseph and Thomas Builds-the-Fire, two young Native American men from the Coeur d'Alene reservation. Their goal is to embark on a road trip to retrieve the ashes of Victor's estranged father. The adventure becomes much more than they expected it to be, making it a must-watch cinematic gem.

Identity and forgiveness are necessary lessons learned throughout the film. 

Rotten Tomatoes gives Smoke Signals a fair 81%, and 86% of Google reviewers liked it. 

This review comes from someone who believes Smoke Signals is more than fair: 

“Smoke Signals is one of the most unique movies I have ever seen. From the combinations of stories, characters, and filmmaking. The acting in this movie was witty, funny, serious, and heartbreaking all at the same time. Even though this is a movie about Native American culture, it is a movie that talks to everyone, no matter what their ethnic background may be. I am of Italian heritage, but this movie still got to me. It tackles issues of family, culture, and tradition, as well as friendship.”

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Atanarjuat: The Fast Runner (2001)

If you’re looking for something different – maybe a longer movie or one with more depth, Atanarjuat: The Fast Runner might be what you’re looking for. This visually stunning Inuit film will transport you to a remote Arctic community. Set in a time of ancient legends and tribal conflicts, the film follows Atanarjuat, a skilled hunter, as he navigates life. With breathtaking landscapes and an engaging narrative, this film will immerse you in the world of Inuit folklore and traditions.

Native themes in this movie include love, betrayal, and survival. 

This movie is another winner if you follow Rotten Tomatoes – they give it a whopping 91%. 

An IMDb reviewer shares their remarkable opinion: 

“Perhaps the word that best describes this film is ‘remarkable.’ It is remarkable that it was made at all by an Inuit film company, remarkable that it was shot on location in the High Arctic in conditions of winter and summer, remarkable for its absolute authenticity, for its faithfulness both to its subject and to the Inuit culture, which transcends remarkable.”

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Windtalkers (2002)

You may have heard of the story before – Windtalkers is based on the true story of Navajo code talkers during WWII. It follows Joe Enders, a Marine assigned to protect the code talkers who use their native language to transmit vital messages. As the chaos of war intensifies, Joe must grapple with the moral complexities of his mission and forge an unlikely bond with his Navajo comrade.

Loyalty and sacrifice shine throughout this film. 

This movie didn’t do too well on Rotten Tomatoes or IMDb, but that doesn’t mean you can’t watch it and see for yourself!

Despite only giving Windtalkers an 8/10, this reviewer acknowledges the strength and determination of the Code Talkers from history:

“I hadn't considered the possibility of a Code Talker being put in a combat situation, and yet this movie made clear how vital their efforts were even on the battlefield. We also got to see how risky it was to be a Code Talker in this situation since the Japanese somehow knew about these people and would find them valuable. Yes, the possibility of the code being revealed to the enemy has a tragic consequence. Many hard decisions were made here.”

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The Business of Fancydancing (2002)

Interested in watching something unique and powerful based on a collection of poems? This is the movie for you – but get out the tissue first! When a successful Spokane Indian poet returns to his Native American reservation for a funeral, he grapples with his place in the community and reconnects with an old friend. This thought-provoking film dives into the complexities of cultural heritage, creativity, and the search for meaning in an ever-changing world. 

Native themes in this movie include exploring identity, art/culture, and friendship.

The Business of Fancydancing has a 6.6/10 on IMDB reviews, but this less-than-average review shouldn’t stop you from enjoying it. 

This reviewer shares how inspiring The Business of Fancydancing was to them: 

“I have been a fan of Sherman Alexie's for many years and really wanted to see his directorial debut. FANCYDANCING did not fail to disappoint. The acting was powerful, the writing was strong, and the images were beautiful and haunted me for days following my first viewing of the film. Specifically, the character of Mouse from the Spokane reservation of Polatkin's birth, with his beautiful and painful renditions of TEN LITTLE INDIANS and THE STARSPANGLED BANNER chilled me to the bone. Also, the subtle references to culture, literature, and humor commonly found in Alexie's writing were done in a way unique to any film I have ever seen.”

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Bury My Heart at Wounded Knee (2007)

This historical (some say not enough truth in it) drama is based on the 1970s non-fiction book Dee Brown wrote. The movie unveils the tragic events surrounding the Native American struggle for survival in the late 19th century. With a star-studded cast and powerful storytelling, the film brings to life the heartbreaking journey of the Sioux tribe, shedding light on the devastating impact of colonization.

Native themes in this movie include colonization, resistance, and resilience. 

The audience score on Rotten Tomatoes is 78%, with mixed reviews on IMDb. The majority of low scores come from those who describe the film as incomplete and more of an adaptation.

Someone who enjoyed Bury My Heart at Wounded Knee says:

“I have no idea whether this is historically accurate, or, if I were a member of (Canada's) First Nations, to embrace or be offended by this portrayal of the time period, which, though the story of one Americanized Indian, is (given the title) really about the plight of America's first peoples and obviously told from a 21st Century perspective. Unlike Clint Eastwood's “Letters from Iwo Jima,” it is truly a “white man's” perception. But, like Eastwood's “Outlaw Josey Wales,” I was happy to embrace the intended sympathy for the characters. As a Canadian, I was also proud to see Adam Beach and Canada's Prairies represent an American history lesson. And I must mention that, in addition to excellent cinematography, writing, and direction, what really made the movie for me was the soundtrack by George S. Clinton.”

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Songs My Brothers Taught Me (2015)

Looking for an award-winning (multiple!) movie to watch? Songs My Brother Taught Me is the one. Set on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation, this coming-of-age film delves into the bond between a Lakota Sioux brother and sister as they face the challenges of their surroundings. Not only do the siblings need to navigate the complexities of modern Indigenous life, but also their lives as growing teenagers. This movie offers poignant storytelling and breathtaking cinematography.

Daily struggles, exploration, and the natural world as a healer are important themes throughout this film. 

Rotten Tomatoes for the win! They give Songs My Brother Taught Me a 94%! 

This IMDb reviewer gives a beautiful critique:

“This is a stunningly true-to-life and tender movie. I had just watched Sky, in which Native Americans and their connections with a white woman were portrayed through the lens of a European romantic fantasy about NA life in America. Songs was the opposite – unsentimental, unsparing, and filled with beautifully understated acting that let the story breathe. The photography was exquisite – I know that country and found myself longing to be there. The ragged weave of the story was precisely how life is lived by so many of us – no big epiphanies, no smarmed up resolutions, no miracles except for how people can hold fast to love. I thank the filmmakers for their deep respect for the people and their recognition of the way the land is the base of hope for far too few of us.”

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Wind River (2017)

True crime enthusiasts: this compelling MMIWG murder mystery will draw you in! In this chilling thriller, a rookie FBI agent teams up with a local game tracker to solve the mysterious death of a young Native American woman on a remote Wyoming reservation. As they navigate through a harsh winter landscape and confront dark secrets, the film immerses viewers in a gripping tale.

Native themes in this movie include MMIWG, justice, and redemption.

Rotten Tomatoes gives Wind River an 88%, and IMDb reviewers give it a 7.7/10. Pretty good!

Here is a review that will entice you to watch it: 

“This movie was incredible. It juxtaposes the beauty and brutality of life in the West and depicts what is taken by the unforgiving landscape and by desperate, broken men. It was raw and heartbreaking. Olsen delivered a very realistic performance as the strong yet naive outsider, ignorant to the code and culture of the West. Brenner was an empathetic character and a silent hero. Part of what makes this movie so gut-wrenching is that it captures the reality of many Native communities.”

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Conclusion

Native people have long been underrepresented in mainstream film, a glaring disparity that needs immediate attention. Supporting Native American film is not just about embracing diverse perspectives but also acknowledging the richness of their cultural heritage. By watching a Native American movie tonight, we can immerse ourselves in stories that educate, entertain, and challenge us. It's time to amplify their presence on the big screen and embrace the power of diverse storytelling.

 

Last Updated on February 9, 2024 by Paul G


25 Comments on “Ten Indigenous Films You Need to Watch”

  • Avatar for Rick Richards

    What? You didn’t include Black Robe? A great film about indigenous life in eastern North America. Stunning cinematography and a great story based on actual events during the French colonial period. Ranks right up there with Dances With Wolves and Last of the Mohicans. Should be more native movies based on historical events in the east. The New World comes to mind. Realistic movies about Tecumseh, Pontiac, Little Turtle, Joseph Brant, and Osceola are over due.

    • Avatar for Paul G

      Paul G

      says:

      I haven’t seen that film, I’ll add it to my list. thanks!

  • Avatar for Hugo Baeckeland

    Hugo Baeckeland

    says:

    Thank you for these links.
    The only film on the list I saw (twice!) was Dances with Wolves. <3 <3 <3
    And last year, I also went to see Killers of the Flower Moon. <3 <3 <3

    I sure need to see the other films you mentionned.

  • Avatar for Tara Blackburn

    Tara Blackburn

    says:

    Thanks for these listings!! Pow Wow highway is my all time favorite movie!! Of any genre. Thanks for posting link. Atarnajuat the Fastrunner is such an amazing film and also one of my faves because in the end it is the grandmother who has the final say. I love all your choices. Glad someone mentioned ‘Hidalgo’ in the comments. I also love all the Tony Hillerman productions with Wes Studi and Adam Beach. Such great story-telling and great acting in all of these movies. May they all reach a wider audience.

  • Avatar for Sue J

    Sue J

    says:

    Yeeesss, ‘A Man Called Horse’, I’ll never forget him hanging from his chest! I think I felt it too. And when I give thanks to veterans, I always include the Code Talkers! We would not be here today without them!

    I have to say, I feel Dances w Wolves is one of my favorite movies of all times! As much as I have seen that movie, it never fails to get all the emotions going throughout and EVERY time I watch it I cry as he leaves, Stands w a Fist with him and Wind in his Hair yelling from the mountain top … I am your friend!!!

    I’m going to watch these others mentioned too. Say, did anyone mention “Billy Jack”???

    • Avatar for Grace Metoxen

      Grace Metoxen

      says:

      That always makes me cry, too!

  • Avatar for Miranda

    Miranda

    says:

    Great article! I would love it if you did the same thing for Native/Indigenous TV shows, novels (maybe divided by genre), and whatever other media you can think of.

    I think media that is done well can be a wonderful tool for teaching people who (like me) are ignorant but want to learn.

  • Avatar for Meryl Levy- Kryza

    Meryl Levy- Kryza

    says:

    There’s Skinwalkers based on the Hillerman novel with the incredible Wes Studi , and Nightwing

    • Avatar for Grace Metoxen

      Grace Metoxen

      says:

      Also, we can’t forget “Geronimo” with Wes Studi, “Squanto,” “Thunderheart,” and “Windwalker” which I liked because there were no white folks needed to save ‘the People’!

  • Avatar for Sean Golden

    I would add the movie’s “A Man Called Horse” “Little Big Man” and “White Buffalo”.
    Man called horse is based on true happenings and White Buffalo is almost a weird trip.
    Both are good movies and don’t try hard not to stereo type.

    • Avatar for Paul G

      Paul G

      says:

      Good ones!

    • Avatar for Eddie hume

      Eddie hume

      says:

      Absolutely agree , we need more of these movies . I also enjoyed Last of the Dog Men .

  • Avatar for Ryan

    Ryan

    says:

    I would have to add Skins to this list. Starring Graham Green and Eric Schweig.

  • Avatar for Lo Cro

    Lo Cro

    says:

    Bones of Crows (this is a newer film and covers the lasting effects of Indian Boarding Schools, have tissues handy)
    Exterminate All the Brutes (I have this as my #1 series to recommend for white people that could use a little help with history).
    Lakota Nation vs. United States (I had to travel to catch this in a theater, it’s new)

  • Avatar for Ruth Robertson

    Ruth Robertson

    says:

    I would offer for consideration Thunderheart with many valued actors. Wondered if you agree or not.

  • Avatar for Debbie

    Debbie

    says:

    Hidalgo was a movie that taught me things about how Native Americans were treated by the US government that I did not know. This movie should be on your list!

  • Avatar for Paul Boretski

    Paul Boretski

    says:

    These are some fine choices but you’ve missed one film that trumps them all. “Little Big Man” is not only one of the ten best indigenous films it is on of the finest film ever made.

  • Avatar for Cathie Syrette

    Cathie Syrette

    says:

    Indian Horse

    • Avatar for Rachel

      Rachel

      says:

      absolutely.

  • Avatar for Frank Donnelly

    Frank Donnelly

    says:

    I look forward to viewing many of the films mentioned in your article. I love novels of early North American history, it’s sadnesses and raw elegance. Anther film, not mentioned, was “A Man Called Horse” with many realistic scenes, indigenous actors and Irishman, Richard Harris.

    I appreciate your website! Frank Donnelly

  • Avatar for Tg

    Tg

    says:

    ALL THESE RIDICULOUS ADS COVER THE INFORMATION COMPLETELY OR THERE ARE SO MANY POP UPS IT MAKES READING THIS NOT WORTHWHILE.

    • Avatar for Paul G

      Paul G

      says:

      Thanks for the feedback. We are always tweaking the ads. We try to balance them, but they pay for the site.

  • Avatar for Stephen Wille

    Stephen Wille

    says:

    Indian Horse (2017) Another good contemporary movie about growing up native.

  • Avatar for Kay Y Bear

    I signed you for this page two years ago. My heart has always been with the Native people.
    Last year a friend and I traveled across the northern states of the US. We left from
    Pa, followed by Ohio, Indiana. Illinois, Iowa, SD, Wyoming, Montana, Idaho, Washington, came back Oregon then pretty much the same as coming out.

    In Pa there are not many Indigenous people. I met so many beautiful Natives. You all lived up to my expectations. I love your people.
    Sending you all love and life. Wishing you a only happiness, and wonderful treatment by all people.

    Love you all, Kay

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