Native American Representation in Film

The video discusses the rise of Indigenous stories in Hollywood, highlighting the film Smoke Signals as a pivotal work. It explores the film's plot, themes, and its role in challenging stereotypes. The video also examines the historical portrayal of Native Americans in media, the ongoing issues with representation, and the importance of authentic storytelling. It concludes with hopes for the future of Indigenous storytelling and humorous film pitches.

Which 1998 film is credited with influencing the rise of Indigenous stories in Hollywood?

• Wind River

• Dances with Wolves

• The Last of the Mohicans

• Smoke Signals

What is the main journey undertaken by the characters in 'Smoke Signals'?

• To escape from the reservation

• To collect the ashes of Victor's father

• To retrieve a family heirloom

• To find a hidden treasure

How does 'Smoke Signals' portray life on the Coeur d'Alene reservation?

• With humor and resilience

• As a place of despair and hopelessness

• As a wealthy and developed community

• With a focus on crime and violence

What stereotype does 'Smoke Signals' challenge through its characters' interactions with white society?

• The Noble Savage

• The Bloodthirsty Savage

• The Indian Princess

• The Stoic Indian

Which film is criticized for inaccurately portraying Native Americans as a dying race?

• Dances with Wolves

• The New World

• Avatar

• The Revenant

What is Dr. Joely Proudfit's main concern about Native American representation in media?

• Too many Native actors in Hollywood

• Stereotypes and lack of authentic representation

• Lack of funding for Native filmmakers

• Overemphasis on historical accuracy

What is the main issue with the portrayal of Native characters in films like 'Yellowstone'?

• They are always the villains

• They are portrayed as superheroes

• They are played by non-Native actors

• They are given too much screen time

What is the significance of Jay Silverheels in the context of Native American representation?

• He won an Oscar for Best Actor

• He founded the Indian Actors Workshop

• He was the first Native American producer

• He was the first Native American director

What does Dr. Proudfit suggest is necessary for the future of Indigenous entertainment?

• Autonomy in storytelling

• More roles for non-Native actors

• More funding from Hollywood

• Focus on historical dramas

What is the main critique of films like 'The Lone Ranger' and 'Avatar' regarding Native representation?

• They are too long

• They have inaccurate historical settings

• They depict Native culture through a white lens

• They are not entertaining