In the ever-changing realm of television and film, Indigenous narratives are finally garnering the recognition they rightfully deserve. This blog post takes a captivating journey through Native American shows that go beyond mere entertainment, challenging stereotypes and illuminating the diverse and rich array of Indigenous cultures.
“Little Bird” – A Drama
“Little Bird” is a drama series co-created by Jennifer Podemski and Hannah Moscovitch. Executive produced by Jeremy Podeswa, the series delves into the life of a First Nations woman adopted into a Jewish family during the Sixties Scoop. The storyline explores her heartfelt attempt to reconnect with her birth culture, navigating the complexities of identity and belonging.
“Reservation Dogs” – Indigenous Series
Created by Sterlin Harjo and Taika Waititi for FX Productions, “Reservation Dogs” is a groundbreaking Indigenous television series. Set in rural Oklahoma, the show follows the lives of four Indigenous teenagers as they navigate the challenges of their reservation community. Balancing humor and drama, the series offers an authentic portrayal of friendship, shared experiences, and the pursuit of a better future.
“Frybread Face and Me” – A Story of Connection
“Frybread Face and Me” follows two adolescent Navajo cousins who bond during a summer herding sheep on their grandmother’s ranch in Arizona. Directed towards self-discovery, the film explores their journey of connecting with their family’s past and understanding themselves against the backdrop of their cultural heritage.
“Rumble” – The Indigenous Roots of Rock
“RUMBLE: The Indians Who Rocked the World” is a captivating documentary tracing the influence of Native Americans in popular music. From traditional melodies to the evolution of rock, the film explores the significant contributions of Indigenous musicians like Robbie Robertson, Buffy Sainte-Marie, Link Wray, and Jimi Hendrix. It unveils the profound impact of Native American culture on the trajectory of rock and roll.
“Without a Whisper” – The Untold Story of Indigenous Women
“Without a Whisper” reveals the untold story of how Indigenous women influenced the early suffragists in their fight for freedom and equality. Mohawk Clan Mother Louise Herne and Professor Sally Roesch Wagner shed light on the hidden history of the influence of Haudenosaunee Women on the women’s rights movement, challenging established narratives.
“Doctrine of Discovery” – Unmasking The Domination Code
A powerful documentary, “Doctrine of Discovery” unravels the story of how Christian people asserted domination over non-Christians, shaping the U.S. Supreme Court’s definition of land title for Indian nations. Based on Steven Newcomb’s research, the film challenges the religiously premised arguments that underpinned historical injustices against Indigenous communities.
“Smoke Signals” – A Coming-of-Age Classic
“Smoke Signals,” directed by Chris Eyre, is a 1998 coming-of-age comedy-drama film based on Sherman Alexie’s short story collection. Recognized for its cultural significance, the film portrays the journey of two Native American friends, weaving humor and poignant moments to explore themes of identity and heritage. “Smoke Signals” was selected for preservation in the United States National Film Registry in 2018.
“What If…?” – The Mohawk Perspective
“What If…?” asks a fascinating question: What if the Tesseract fell to Earth and landed in the sovereign Haudenosaunee Confederacy before the colonization of America? Written by Ryan Little, this episode takes on a new life and mythology, transforming a lake into a gateway to the stars. The narrative follows Kahhori, a young Mohawk woman, on a quest to discover her power. Created in close collaboration with members of the Mohawk Nation, including historian Doug George and Mohawk language expert Cecelia King, the episode is a testament to cultural authenticity. Set in the Mohawk language and informed by the history of the Akwesasne region in upstate New York, the episode promises a unique and historically significant perspective.
“Gather” – A Cinematic Exploration of Indigenous Food Sovereignty
In our exploration of Indigenous narratives in film, it’s crucial to include the impactful documentary “Gather.” Directed by Sanjay Rawal, this documentary sheds light on Indigenous food sovereignty, showcasing the resilience and wisdom of Native communities striving to reclaim control over their food systems. The film explores the profound connection between traditional food practices, cultural identity, and environmental sustainability.
Coming Soon: “Echo” – Marvel Expands Representation in Indigenous Storytelling
Marvel Studios continues to champion diversity and representation with the upcoming series “Echo.” Based on the Marvel Comics character Maya Lopez, who is of Native American descent, this highly anticipated show promises to further amplify Indigenous voices in the entertainment landscape. As the first Indigenous superhero to lead her own series in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, “Echo” is poised to break new ground. Played by Alaqua Cox, who herself is of Native American heritage, Maya Lopez’s journey as Echo is expected to delve into her complex background and unique abilities. With Marvel’s commitment to authenticity, “Echo” is likely to explore Indigenous culture and storytelling in a way that resonates with audiences and continues the trend of honoring diverse narratives on screen. Keep an eye out for this groundbreaking addition to the Marvel Universe, as “Echo” brings a fresh perspective and cultural richness to the superhero genre.
As we immerse ourselves in these Native American shows, we not only witness the power of storytelling but also contribute to a more authentic representation of Indigenous cultures. These narratives challenge preconceptions and provide a platform for Indigenous voices, fostering appreciation and understanding. Each show serves as a crucial milestone in the ongoing journey towards accurate and respectful representation in the world of entertainment.