When considering films that have genuinely strived to represent Native Americans with depth and authenticity, the Movie Dances With Wolves immediately comes to mind. This epic Western stands out for its nuanced depiction of Native American characters, portraying them not as stereotypes, but as complex individuals with distinct personalities, intelligence, dignity, culture, and a sense of humor.
What truly sets Dances with Wolves apart is its bold decision to feature a significant portion of dialogue in Lakota, subtitled in English. This was a remarkable and commendable choice for a major Hollywood production, demonstrating a respect for the language and culture that was rarely seen before. The film doesn’t shy away from depicting the brutal realities of white expansion, starkly illustrating the cruelty inflicted upon Native populations. The scene showcasing the prairie littered with rotting buffalo carcasses serves as a powerful inversion of the traditional Western narrative, forcing audiences to confront the historical truth of who the real “savages” were. Kevin Costner, both directing and starring, deserves immense credit for taking on this challenging perspective and bringing it to mainstream cinema.
While undeniably epic and impactful, Dances with Wolves is not without its imperfections. Some viewers might find its length demanding, and critiques have been raised regarding the necessity of the romantic subplot. Additionally, the soundtrack, while sweeping, occasionally feels overly emphatic and could have benefited from moments of greater subtlety and restraint. The “white savior” trope is another point of discussion, but arguably, the film subverts this by portraying Costner’s character as being profoundly transformed and ultimately saved by the Lakota culture, both spiritually and physically. At its heart, Dances with Wolves movie is a powerful exploration of the beauty of intercultural understanding, mutual respect, and the immense tragedy of historical genocide.
Dances with Wolves is clearly a passion project, and Costner took significant risks to bring his vision to life. The casting of Native American actors in prominent roles was groundbreaking for its time and remains a benchmark for representation. Performances from Graham Greene (Kicking Bird), Rodney A. Grant (Wind In His Hair), and Floyd Red Crow Westerman (Chief Ten Bears) are all exceptional and contribute immensely to the film’s authenticity and emotional resonance. The breathtaking cinematography, filmed on location in South Dakota, further enhances the immersive experience, capturing the vast beauty of the landscape and the spirit of the Sioux people.
Ultimately, the most enduring quality of Dances with Wolves movie is its heart. It conveys a deep appreciation for the Sioux people, as eloquently summarized by the main character: “They were a people so eager to laugh, so devoted to family, so dedicated to each other. The only word that comes to mind is harmony.” Thirty-four years after its release in 1990, the film’s plea for understanding and respect across cultures remains profoundly relevant. While there is still a long way to go in achieving authentic Native American representation in cinema, and voices from native perspectives are crucial, we must acknowledge Costner’s significant achievement with Dances with Wolves. It paved the way for more nuanced and respectful portrayals and continues to be a powerful and thought-provoking cinematic experience.
