One Popular Indigenous Films that you need to watch if you haven’t already! (Reservation Dogs)

In the history of Indigenous movie/show films, the new and improved indigenous incorporated industry has really brought us some stunning and popular shows throughout the years of 2020. And with one show that immediately came to mind, this had to be the first one that will come to this blog series!

Reservation Dogs

“Reservation Dogs” is a popular television series that premiered on FX on Hulu in August 2021. Created by Sterlin Harjo and Taika Waititi, the show is notable for being one of the first TV series with an almost entirely Indigenous North American cast and production team.

The series is a coming-of-age comedy-drama that revolves around a group of four Indigenous teenagers living in and around the fictional town of Okmulgee, Oklahoma. The main characters are Bear Smallhill (played by D’Pharaoh Woon-A-Tai), Elora Danan (Devery Jacobs), Willie Jack (Paulina Alexis), and Cheese (Lane Factor). They are determined to leave their home on the reservation to pursue their dreams in California. Along the way, they find themselves involved in various misadventures and navigate the challenges of adolescence, friendship, and their cultural identity.

“Reservation Dogs” received acclaim for its authentic portrayal of Indigenous communities and its unique blend of humor and drama. The series explores themes such as poverty, loss, and the importance of community, all while providing a fresh perspective on Indigenous experiences. The use of Indigenous languages, traditions, and cultural references is a notable aspect of the show, contributing to its authenticity and representation.

The series has been praised for breaking new ground in terms of Indigenous representation in mainstream media and for its ability to tackle serious topics while maintaining a lighthearted and humorous tone. The creators and cast members have expressed their commitment to breaking stereotypes and showcasing the diversity and richness of Indigenous cultures

What made it so popular?

Reservation dogs was an authentic film that explored indigenous culture in a vast but accurate point of view. But going into a more thorough discussion on why it was so popular is because of a few reasons.

Authentic Representation: The series is notable for its authentic portrayal of Indigenous cultures and communities. It addresses the lack of representation of Indigenous people in mainstream media and provides a more nuanced and accurate depiction of their experiences.

Diverse Characters: The show features a diverse set of characters, each with their own unique personalities, dreams, and challenges. The characters are relatable, and viewers are drawn to their individual stories and struggles.

Cultural Significance: “Reservation Dogs” incorporates Indigenous languages, traditions, and cultural elements into its narrative. This authenticity resonates with viewers and adds a layer of cultural richness to the storytelling.

Humor and Heart: The series skillfully balances humor with heartfelt moments. The humor is often rooted in the characters’ experiences, making it relatable and endearing to a wide audience.

Trailblazing Cast and Crew: The fact that “Reservation Dogs” boasts an almost entirely Indigenous cast and production team is groundbreaking. This commitment to authenticity and representation is both noteworthy and commendable, contributing to the show’s popularity.

Unique Setting: The show is set in rural Oklahoma on a reservation, offering a unique and less-explored backdrop for storytelling. The setting adds depth to the narrative and allows the show to address issues specific to Indigenous communities.

Critical Acclaim: “Reservation Dogs” received positive reviews from critics, praising its storytelling, character development, and cultural authenticity. Positive critical reception often contributes to a show’s popularity.

Social and Cultural Impact: The series has sparked important conversations about representation, cultural appropriation, and the need for more diverse stories in the entertainment industry. This impact has resonated beyond the show itself, contributing to its popularity.

In summary, the combination of authentic representation, diverse and relatable characters, cultural significance, humour, and the show’s overall uniqueness has contributed to the widespread popularity of “Reservation Dogs.”

Why is this film is so significant to Indigenous communities?

“Reservation Dogs” is a television series, not a film, but its significance in Indigenous communities is noteworthy for several reasons:

Representation: One of the most crucial aspects is the show’s commitment to authentic representation. “Reservation Dogs” features an almost entirely Indigenous cast and crew, which is a rarity in mainstream media. This representation allows Indigenous viewers to see themselves reflected on screen, breaking away from harmful stereotypes and providing a more accurate portrayal of their experiences.

Cultural Authenticity: The series incorporates Indigenous languages, traditions, and cultural elements into its narrative. This authenticity is important in preserving and celebrating Indigenous cultures, contributing to a greater understanding of the diversity within these communities.

Breaking Stereotypes: The show challenges stereotypes commonly associated with Indigenous people. By presenting multi-dimensional characters with their own dreams, struggles, and quirks, “Reservation Dogs” helps dispel preconceived notions and promotes a more nuanced understanding of Indigenous life.

Empowerment and Pride: The series has been empowering for Indigenous communities by showcasing their resilience, humor, and strength. It fosters a sense of pride by highlighting the uniqueness and richness of Indigenous cultures.

Positive Impact on Youth: “Reservation Dogs” revolves around Indigenous teenagers, providing representation that is particularly impactful for young Indigenous individuals. Seeing characters who share their backgrounds and navigate similar challenges can be inspiring and affirming for Indigenous youth.

Catalyst for Conversations: The show has sparked important conversations about representation, cultural appropriation, and the need for more diverse stories in the entertainment industry. These conversations extend beyond the screen and contribute to a broader dialogue on inclusivity.

Community Connection: “Reservation Dogs” is set in a fictional Indigenous community, and the show reflects the sense of community and interconnectedness that is often a strong aspect of Indigenous cultures. This portrayal resonates with Indigenous viewers who recognize and appreciate the importance of community in their own lives.

Cultural Exchange: For non-Indigenous viewers, “Reservation Dogs” provides an opportunity for cultural exchange and learning. It opens a window into the lives, traditions, and challenges of Indigenous communities, fostering greater understanding and empathy.

Reservation Dogs is important in Indigenous communities for its dedication to authentic representation, cultural authenticity, and its positive impact on breaking stereotypes and fostering a sense of empowerment and pride. It serves as a significant step forward in the quest for more inclusive and diverse storytelling in the entertainment industry.

Fan Favourite Characters

“Reservation Dogs” garnered a positive response from audiences, and various characters resonated with fans due to their unique personalities, story arcs, and the actors’ performances. While individual preferences may vary, some characters from the show were particularly well-received:

Bear Smallhill (D’Pharaoh Woon-A-Tai): As one of the main characters, Bear served as the leader of the group. His determination, loyalty, and the challenges he faced made him a compelling character.

Elora Danan (Devery Jacobs): Elora, often called “Elle,” is another central character known for her strong-willed and independent nature. Her journey and interactions with other characters contributed to her popularity.

Willie Jack (Paulina Alexis): Willie Jack is a character known for her humor, resilience, and close friendship with the other members of the group. Her dynamic personality resonated with many viewers.

Cheese (Lane Factor): Cheese added humor to the group with his laid-back and carefree attitude. His interactions with the other characters brought a comedic element to the series.

Dallas Goldtooth (William Knifeman): William Knifeman, the irreverent, dubiously helpful spirit tasked with ushering D’Pharaoh Woon-A-Tai’s Bear through his coming of age on Reservation Dogs.

To conclude:

Reservation Dogs has emerged as a standout series celebrated for its authentic representation, cultural richness, and compelling characters. With an almost entirely Indigenous cast and crew, the show has broken ground in the realm of diversity and inclusion, bringing forth narratives seldom explored in mainstream media. The characters, led by figures like Bear, Elle, Willie Jack, and Cheese, have become fan favorites, each contributing a unique flavor to the series.

The show’s success is not just attributed to its humor and heart but also to its dedication to dispelling stereotypes and fostering pride within Indigenous communities. Through positive impact, cultural exchange, and engaging storytelling, Reservation Dogs marks a significant stride toward more inclusive and authentic representations in the entertainment landscape.

As the series continues to resonate with audiences, it stands as a testament to the power of diverse storytelling and the importance of amplifying voices that have been historically underrepresented.

Now will you watch it and try this funny experience out?