Reel Injun

Reel Injun is a documentary film that presents a historical and critical assessment of the depiction of Native Americans in cinema. Directed by Neil Diamond and Catherine Bainbridge, the film premiered at the 2009 Toronto International Film Festival. By delving into the evolution of representations of Native Americans in film, the documentary highlights the often-negative and stereotypical portrayal of Native American peoples on screen. The film begins by examining the portrayal of Native Americans in the silent era. The early days of cinema often featured stereotypical and exoticized depictions of Native Americans. The early silent films depicted Native Americans as savage and uncivilized, with a tendency to emphasize their physical appearance and tribal affiliations. Many of these films drew from the myth of the "noble savage," a trope that characterized Native Americans as either noble and wise or fierce and savage. These portrayals were often based on incomplete and inaccurate information, reflecting the cultural attitudes and biases of the filmmakers. As cinema moved into the talkies era, the depiction of Native Americans on screen did not improve significantly. The advent of sound allowed for more detailed and nuanced portrayals, but the stereotypes and negative attitudes persisted. The Hays Code, a self-regulatory code that governed the content of films in the United States, prohibited on-screen depictions of Native American cultures and rituals. The code did, however, allow for the depiction of Native American characters as villains or as people who needed to be "rescued" by white protagonists. This perpetuated the idea that Native Americans were unable to govern themselves or were in need of paternalistic care. Reel Injun also examines the role of John Ford, a renowned film director who was a prolific purveyor of Westerns. Ford's films often featured Native Americans as secondary characters or as figures in need of rescue. The film critiques Ford's depiction of Native American life, particularly in films like "Fort Apache" (1948) and "She Wore a Yellow Ribbon" (1949). Ford's films often relied on racial caricatures and stereotypes, perpetuating a negative and paternalistic view of Native American cultures. The documentary also highlights the work of Native American filmmakers who sought to challenge and subvert the existing stereotypes and negative portrayals. Films like "Smoke Signals" (1998) and "The Business of Fancydancing" (2002), both directed by Native American filmmakers, offered more nuanced and realistic portrayals of Native American life. These films often explored themes of identity, culture, and community, highlighting the diversity and complexity of Native American experiences. Reel Injun also examines the impact of the Indian Reorganization Act of 1934, which sought to promote self-governance and cultural revitalization among Native American tribes. The film suggests that the Act had a ripple effect on the depiction of Native Americans in film. Many filmmakers began to see Native American peoples as more than just stereotypes or villains. They began to recognize the diversity and complexity of Native American cultures, leading to more nuanced and realistic portrayals on screen. The documentary concludes by highlighting the challenges faced by Native American filmmakers today. Despite the progress made in recent years, many Native American filmmakers still face significant barriers to entry in the industry. The lack of representation and diversity in the film industry perpetuates a cycle of stereotypes and negative portrayals. By examining the evolution of the depiction of Native Americans in cinema, Reel Injun seeks to raise awareness about the ongoing struggles faced by Native American filmmakers and the importance of accurate and respectful representation on screen. Ultimately, Reel Injun is a powerful critique of the film industry's treatment of Native American peoples. By highlighting the evolution of representations of Native Americans on screen, the documentary sheds light on the ongoing struggle for accurate and respectful representation. Through its examination of the history and culture of Native American peoples, Reel Injun seeks to challenge existing stereotypes and promote a deeper understanding of the complex and multifaceted experiences of Native American communities.