Native Film Talk

Echo Jan 26, 2024

Back again with a episode on Marvel's Echo. My friend Chris joins me to talk about Maya Lopez's journey back to her community in season 1 of Echo. We discuss why this is important for Native representation, specifically for women. I had a great time discussing how badass Alaqua Cox is as Maya and how much we are looking forward to another season.

There isn't much I didn't like about this show, it's easy to like and does a lot for Native representation. Listen as we share our thoughts.

Follow me on YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter: @nativefilmtalk. Like, subscribe, and let me know what you think of the show at www.nativefilmtalk.com

Joey Clift Feb 26, 2023

I had a wonderful chat with Joey Clift. He is a writer on Spirit Rangers, which just got renewed for season 2! Woot woot!

Joey has also created amazing short films like My First Native American Boyfriend and How To Cope With Your Team Changing Its Native American Mascot.

We talk a bit about the Spirit Rangers premiere, in addition to how the show came to be. We also touch on the state of Native American representation today. While I typically speculate on, "Where do we go from here..." I feel that Joey's opinion and perspective on this topic is the most unique one that has been aired on the podcast.

So check this episode out! Enjoy and let me know what you think, talk to you later.

Rez Dogs Season 2 - Episode 1 & 2 Dec 24, 2022

Alrighty! We're back with the Rez Dogs takeover! Episodes 1 and 2 are essentially one long episode so I decided to combine them!

We're back with Bear, Elora, Cheese, and Willie Jack as they try to reverse curses, make it back to town, get a job, and try to not be a shitass in life. They get second, sometimes third chances, because there is good in them that needs room to flourish.

I loved this season and am excited to talk more about the amazing things that were done in season 2 of Rez Dogs

Jon Proudstar (Leon on Reservation Dogs) Oct 29, 2022

Jon is most recently known for his work on Reservation Dogs, playing Willie Jack's dad Leon. However Jon has been in the acting business for a while and has many stories to share! What Hollywood was like when he started acting compared to now on Reservation Dogs. Also we discuss where people get it wrong about Native people when it comes to science, culture, sense of place, filmmaking.

I had fun talking to Jon it is clear he is having the time of his life right now where Native people have the opportunity to control the narrative in film/tv. This has led to opportunities from non-Native film makers to give Native actors the ability to accurately represent themselves on screen. Jon shares his experiences on his upcoming film Year of the Dog.

Last we talked about Jon's comic book Tribal Force, the long journey from the mid-90s to now and what's coming next.

Hope you all enjoy! Like, subscribe, and send me feedback.

Nathalie Standingcloud Sep 24, 2022

We had an Auntie on the podcast! Nathalie Standingcloud who plays Natalie an Optometry Receptionist. Nathalie is a tatoo artist, stage actor, on-screen actor, and model. She has been in the spotlight recently in performance as one of the Aunties in Season 2 Episode 5 of Reservation Dogs, where a quartet of ladies journey to an IHS Conference.

In my chat with Nathalie we discuss the importance and feedback from Season 2 Episode 5, also why the representation in that episode was so important for Native women. In addition we discuss her path to acting, her work as a tattoo artist, advice for aspiring Native actors, Rutherford Falls cancellation, Dexter New Blood, and much more.

I had a wonderful chat with Nathalie and it flew by! I'm thrilled to bring this conversation to you all and I hope you enjoy!

Dark Winds w/ Majerle Lister (Host of Wósdéé Podcast) Aug 21, 2022

Listen as I dive into season 1 of Dark Winds with my guest Majerle Lister, host of Wósdéé podcast and co-host of F*ckin Sick Podcast.

We do deep dive of how this compares to the previous PBS Hillerman films and general reception of the Hillerman novels among Navajo people. Additionally we discuss the impact of having an all native writers room for this series and including historically accurate events for the 1970s on the Navajo reservation.

As always we do a cast review, discuss positives/negatives, and wrap up our overall thoughts of the season. Spoiler alert, we both really like it and can't wait for season two. We also give it some harsh criticism from a Navajo lens, regarding language use, writing, and cultural expression in the show. BUT we also acknowledge that most non-Navajo people will not hold the same critiques, so we look forward to hearing your critique of the first season!

It was a fun discussion that yielded the longest podcast episode to date, hope you all enjoy.

Prey w/ MacNez Podcast Aug 12, 2022

Directed by Dan Trachenburg, this feature film is the #1 film premier in the first three days on Hulu. Receiving praise from Jesse Ventura, Joe Rogan, Bill Duke, and rocking a 92% on Rotten Tomatoes, this film has received positive acclaim.

This film dives into the world of Naru as she is trying to find her foothold as a warrior while challenging the traditional roles for women in her village. While trying to perform her trial and kill a predator and bring home the head, she encounters a creature of the Yautja race, a Predator that seeks out other predators for sport. A wild ride ensues that has historically accurate costumes, customs, and authentic native talent on display. In addition to all of this, it was dubbed in Comanche upon release. This is the first feature film that is dubbed in Native language upon release. This is the benchmark for representation in major motion pictures.

Listen as I discuss Amber Midthunder's performance, review how this film challenges stereotypes typically portrayed in film, and where this takes us from here. I review the cast, the plot, discuss positives/negatives, and then provide some final thoughts.

I hope you all leave a review/ comment. Subscribe and listen out for our next episode, Dark Winds!

Caleb Abrams (Cultural Consultant - Dexter New Blood) Mar 03, 2022

I had a great chat with Caleb Abrams (Seneca) and discussed his work as a cultural consultant on Dexter New Blood. We also discuss the inclusion of MMIW in the show, his college educational experience, and what his community thought of Dexter New Blood. In addition, so much more.

Caleb is many things but he is most a great asset to Indian Country, it shows in what was present in Dexter. I'm happy to have had the time to chat with him and I look forward to see what he has coming up next. Check out his website and check out the trailer for his upcoming short film The Burning of My Cold Spring Home, it can be found at www.calebgabrams.com

Like, subscribe, leave a review and I hope you all enjoy!

Dexter New Blood Feb 21, 2022

This Dexter reboot that takes place 10 years after the questionable ending of the original show. Far from Miami, Dexter finds himself under the alias, Jim Lindsay, and is no longer killing. On top of not satisfying his urges, he is dating the Chief of Police Angela Bishop who is Seneca. A crime takes place on tribal land we are taken on a wild ride which eventually leads to Dexter meeting his demise at the hands of his own son, (SPOILER ALERT!)

Despite not having any Native producers, writers, or directors this show had excellent Native representation. While they did not have those roles filled by Native people, they had a Seneca cultural consultant, Caleb Abrams. It is clear they had a great collaboration during the show, the product is solid.

While I wish there was more Native representation in the show, what was shown on screen was graceful and real. I enjoyed seeing this reboot and I hope you all get a chance to see it! Let me know what you all think and stay tuned for the next episode where I interview the cultural consultant on the show, Caleb Abrams!

Grey's Anatomy S15E17 - Tradition Dec 12, 2021

This unfortunately came out in a year where we were graced with superior Native representation in television, Rutherford Falls and Reservation Dogs. Fortunately for us we know better now because of those shows. Grey's Anatomy having Natives, at face value sounds amazing. The actual product though, left much to be desired. I felt like I was watching someone's attempt at being respectful to Natives. It's obvious that this was non-natives writing about native people. The representation felt romanticized, generalized, on the nose, and performative.

Overall, I love this show as a whole. I was so excited when I heard that Robert Mesa was playing James Chee, a Navajo intern and recurring character. So I was MORE excited when I heard an episode about Natives was coming and man did it fail to deliver. I'm happy though, had this come out a year ago I would have enjoyed it. Thankfully I have a graduated taste, thanks to the shows mentioned above.

Thank you everyone who supports the show. Like, subscribe, leave a review, and let me know what you think! Have a good one!

Joe Yates (Writer on Molly of Denali) Dec 04, 2021

Joe is the father I want to be, the creator I want to be, the role model I want to be...everything.

Joe Yates runs Alaskan Films, his own video production and photography company. He also is a writer on Molly Of Denali, works on the upcoming show Life Below Zero: The First Alaskans, and is a Haida man trying his best to teach his kids the language.

He is a wonderful filmmaker and his work is available on his website alaskanfilms.com, go check it out and you will be amazed by his short films he has put together so far.

Joe is a phenomenal individual and we have a chat that ranges from language revitalization, to accurate native representation, fatherhood, and of course Molly of Denali!

Hope you all enjoy and please check out his work on alaskanfilms.com (Highly recommend Songs of Our Ancestors)

Reservation Dogs Episode 8 Nov 25, 2021

Give that man an Ax!

What a way to end the season, Elora is the only one that ends up leaving?! And she ends up leaving with Jackie?! From the sworn rival gang the NDN Mafia?! Definitely some curveballs in this season finale but it was a great way to leave us wanting more for season 2.

I wrap up my miniseries on the Reservation Dogs season 1 and hope that everyone enjoyed it!

In addition to wrapping up episode 8 I also give my final thoughts on the show, overall positive, negatives, and where we go from here. I hope everyone enjoys it, likes, subscribes, and/or gives some feedback!

Thank you everyone who supports the show, talk to you later!

Reservation Dogs Episode 7 Nov 13, 2021

What a great episode! Unfortunately this is what accurate Native representation looks like sometimes, suicide. While it dealt with an issue that we commonly see in our communities, it did it in a way that informs us of the circumstances that cultivate those high rates. Addiction, lack of opportunity, language loss, culture loss, poor access to adequate health care, etc. This show demonstrates that we need to talk about these things and sometimes we have to go to a non-native to talk about them.

This episode was heavy for me and for many people who saw it but it is important when controlling the narrative to tell the truth, even when it hurts!

This episode also gave Elora so much depth that we needed to see and always starve for in other shows featuring Native women. I love this show and episode. Episode 8, season finale, coming soon!

Reservation Dogs Episode 6 Nov 02, 2021

This is the Willie Jack episode we've all been waiting for...it's not quite what we expected but over delivered in my opinion.

Willie Jack and her dad set out to hunt the deer that has eluded them, Chunk. While out and about Leon shares with Willie Jack his encounter of Tallman and they discuss the circumstances around Daniel's death.

This is a wonderful episode that touches on religion, belonging to place, connection to land, Land Back, and suicide. This is a powerful episode that doesn't get enough credit for what it is, the first TV show that depicts the reality of leaving the Rez.

I go over the new characters introduced, their backstory, plot review, positives, negatives, and final thoughts to take us home. Let me know what you all think! Leave a review, subscribe, or write into the show and give some feedback. Talk to you later.

Episode 7 coming soon!

Elias Gold Oct 15, 2021

As seen on Natives React Rez Dogs episode!

I had the pleasure of having Elias Gold come onto the show, he is the creator behind the YouTube channel Native Media Theory.

This chat discussed Reservation Dogs, how we came to be enamored with Native representation and advocating for accurate representation, the state of Native representation in film & television, also where we go from here.

I had a fantastic chat with Elias in our longest episode to date! Thank you all for your support and like, subscribe, rate/review!

Reservation Dogs Episode 5 Oct 06, 2021

This episode is my favorite of the season. It has Kiowa Gordon singing Midnight Rider, Big's origin story, learning more about Cheese, and Native suspense/horror like I've never seen it done before...so beautifully. Also Wes Studi is in this episode, man what a show!

Deer Lady is right behind William Knifeman aka Spirit as my favorite character in the show. I have never seen Native lore captured so beautifully and in such a terrifying way that took me back to all my stories being told as a kid.

This was a great episode that took a deep dive into Big's past and why he isn't just a conspiracy theorist, he actually has seen some wild shit! This show is spot on with how we dress, I talk about that. Also how we need to guard our stories a little so we don't get people trying to recreate this, a lot of Kenny Boy's out there...gotta watch out.

Please like, subscribe, and leave reviews if you can. Thank you so much for listening.

Reservation Dogs Episode 4 Oct 01, 2021

This episode was real...like very real and strange. Absent father, people who have a weird Native fetish, phallic beaded jewelry, and of course frybread at diabetes awareness fairs.

I discuss the anti-black criticism surround this show, specifically targeted around this particular episode. I also talk about some of the great topics raised, like sexualization of Native women. How Native women are always the caregivers but never taken care of by their communities. Also dead beat dads in Indian Country and where this episode got it right and not so right.

I close it out with positives, negatives, and final thoughts. Listen soon for the upcoming episode on episode 5, my FAVORITE of season 1.

Enjoy!

Bobby Wilson Sep 18, 2021

Writer, actor, artist, comedian...what can this guy not do?!

I had the pleasure of sitting down with Bobby to talk about his work on Rutherford Falls and Reservation Dogs. Keeping the spirit of making my show a mini-series about Reservation Dogs I thought it was fitting that we invite someone that writes for the show!

We talked a lot about his career. How he got to the point where he is writing on two major shows? We discuss Native representation up to this point, where we go from here, and how Reservation Dogs has changed the game already.

Hope you all enjoy and have a good one everybody!

Reservation Dogs Episode 3 Sep 14, 2021

Let's run away together and live off the land...let's get some Sonics!

Episode 3 brought us talk about shapeshifters, bad medicine, Sonics, legendary knockout stories, and reconnecting with our kin.

Listen as I discuss the show's subtle humor it brings, so hard. Also how I'm worried this is going to be stolen by other people who see how much attention this show is getting. Last, hear me wrap up my thoughts about the show thus far.

I hope you all enjoy this awesome episode that brought us Gary Farmer as Uncle Brownie. Have a great one everybody!

Reservation Dogs Episode 2 Sep 04, 2021

Hi there everybody!

Episode 2 brings us to the IHS clinic, of all places. I discuss how this is something I didn't know I needed, real life interactions at the clinic. It's such a random place where you can meet elders, family members, and maybe find love.

Reservation Dogs continue to set the bar on Native representation in TV and the hits keep coming with each episode.

Let me know what you think and look out for episode 3 coming soon!

Reservation Dogs Episode 1 Aug 31, 2021

Aho Young Warrior!

I decided to do a mini season the show. The next eight episodes will be dedicated to the show. All other work feels like table scraps right now. I can't help but find myself only consuming this show and I want to talk about it.

I love this show, the representation is so authentic it should have it's own enrollment card. I can't believe this show exists, so I had to take the time to talk about the show and why it's so awesome.

Reservation Dogs Reaction and News Update Aug 09, 2021

Not a spoiler alert!

I give a quick reaction to the first two episodes of Reservation Dogs being dropped on Hulu! It was so good, I discuss how next level it is and why I'm so excited for the rest of the season to air! Can't wait.

I also bring up happenings with Spirit Rangers (Netflix), Dexter: New Blood, Rezball being produced by Lebron James, Avatar: The Last Airbender live action TV Show, Dark Winds TV Show, Killers of the Flower Moon, The Ice Road, Rutherford Falls Season 2, and Grey's Anatomy.

I had fun offloading these news bits and I look forward to doing this more in the future. Enjoy and let me know what you think!

Angelique Midthunder Jul 30, 2021

I had a wonderful chat with Angelique Midthunder and Stacey Rice, both of whom work for Midthunder Casting. A casting agency that has a particular eye for Native talent. A primary focus of their work is casting Native actors so naturally we talk about how hard it is to find Native talent, is it hard to spot a Pretendian, what is the outlook like for Native film/TV?

Also we discuss Angelique's journey in the film industry and her experience in casting/consulting. AND we discuss the upcoming show Reservation Dogs, which comes out on August 9th, and Midthunder Casting worked with Director Sterlin Harjo to find Native talent for that show! I had a wonderful chat with Angelique and Stacey. Check it out!

Basketball & Sports Representation Jul 22, 2021

We don't see enough of ourselves in sports film and television. So I talk Basketball or Nothing (2019), Edge of America, Chiefs (2002), Off The Rez (Shoni Schimmel), and Smoke Signals.

Also I discuss why sports are so important to us as Natives. In addition our history with sports and how it was introduced to use through boarding/residential schools. Playing sports was no doubt a way to survive in these schools and provides hope to our communities. Hope that we can be better each year and come out victorious. There is so much to tell regarding sports in our communities...so where are all the movies/TV!?

That's what I finish off discussing, why we don't see enough sports movies with Natives in it and/or about Native people. Sports are massive in our communities, with no preference to support either gender, just lovers of the talent that our community is putting out there. We've been in this "Us vs. Them" battle for so long, let's tell THAT story!

Majerle Lister (Host of Wósdéé Podcast) Jul 03, 2021

I had a great chat with Majerle Lister, host of Wósdéé podcast!

I am a fan of his podcast and we had been kicking the can down the road for too long. We just linked up and did an episode! I'm so happy he came on because he brought thought provoking conversation.

Accurate Native representation is important but why now? Why is it all seem to be happening now? Is this going to become another form of cultural appropriation/exploitation that indigenous people will need to battle? I think history tells us we need to prepare ourselves for that possibility. Majerle did a lot of research on the historical events that back up this theory about how we got here. Also and more important, where do we go from here?

Enjoy the conversation everyone, I had a wonderful chat with him and can't wait to bring him back on!

Allie Young Jun 27, 2021

Allie is many things, an activist, actor, writer, founder, etc. She's a leader and most recently founded Protect the Sacred. An organization founded to combat COVID-19 on the Navajo Nation. With the many challenges that the Navajo Nation faced, we needed help and Allie saw a way to fill a void and just went for it. Time was not on our side with COVID-19 and the Navajo people so her quick action saved lives and made a lasting impact on the youth.

She was also in the film industry prior to her current role, running Protect the Sacred. We delve into her experiences as an Indigenous woman in the film industry but also how that informed her about where Hollywood is with Native representation.

Listen to this conversation and enjoy!

Mark Tilsen Jun 22, 2021

Mark is many things, he is an activist, educator, poet, and thought leader. He should also add badass to that list. Mark is an impressive individual who I look to for wisdom. While he is much younger than an elder, he brings the elder knowledge. I'm excited to bring you all this chat I had with him because I have been looking forward to having this chat.

I would consider us friends, but if Mark asked me what I think of him, I'd tell him I needed a Lakota friend to fill my quota.

This dude is a smart AF and wise beyond his years. I'm excited to see what this guy does with his life and the impact he leaves everywhere he goes. I brought him on to talk film, but we ended up just talking. I want to bring him back on to talk specifically about representation, but thankfully that's for another time.

Ryker Sixkiller Interview Jun 08, 2021

Ryker is one impressive guy. I have such respect for anyone who is willing to do anything to make themselves better. He is eager to learn, hungry for knowledge, and a Native stuntman/actor/cinematographer/writer/father/etc. Of all the great things he has done in his career, he's so humble and chill. I had a blast learning about Ryker's journey, work ethic, past projects, and future work. He is someone that I will constantly check in on because this guy is going to be big.

I decided to not talk about movies/television but just had a great chat with a Native actor about the industry, his work, where he wants to go, and where we go from here. Hope you all enjoy!

Hollywood Diversity Report Jun 05, 2021

Well well well...the diversity report shoes what we already knew. Natives are not present in Film and Television. However, how much does this matter when we're talking about the most viewed and highest grossing film and TV? Should Natives represent a large market share of that segment? Does it make sense for us to grow? Is there a legitimate case to be made when Natives make up approximately 1.3% of the population in the US? Well let's talk about it...I think it depends but I believe the answer is "Yes" more than it is "No."

Longmire Season 1 May 29, 2021

Hey everybody! This was my first crack at a tv show and I thought I would do more free form than my usual format. I did my research and discussed the positives, negatives, and gave some final thoughts.

Also I recorded a new intro!

Lou Diamond Phillips again!? Well I talk about it...and why it's tolerable but still not okay.

Zahn McLarnon and Irene Bedard are the prominent Native actors that grace the first season and I'm here for it. Despite my desire to dislike this show, it's a great show with solid Native representation. This show talks about MMIW, ICWA issues, Blood Quantum issues, and even Native witchcraft (YEEHUH!)

Overall, it's a show that covers a lot of ground, looks into the world of the modern native but only touches on the surface. Should you dislike it for it only going surface? No because that's not what the show is about, for what it is...it's great.

Let me know what you all think and have a good one.

Zombieland May 08, 2021

Who expected to see a Native trading post destroyed in a post apocalyptic world? I sure didn't expect to see that when I saw this movie. That's why it's fun to talk about this native representation, because NO ONE is going to talk about this movie. I find that fascinating when it happens, because I'm positive every Native that saw this at the very least furrowed their eyebrows during destruction of the Trading Post.

Did you know it was NOT a real trading post? They made this up at a empty warehouse in Georgia! So I talk about commercialization of Native culture/art, brief history of trading posts in Indian Country, what the Director said about this scene, and why I ultimately give it a pass.

Listen as I skip the positives and negatives for once, just dive right into the plot review and give some final thoughts. Let me know what you all think!

Magnificent Seven (2016) Apr 23, 2021

This 2016 movie directed by Antoine Fuqua, better than most remakes. Frankly we're exhausted with remakes at this point. So it's refreshing to see one that comes out that's unique but also just a good stand alone movie. Thank god there isn't going to be a sequel too, can't stand it when remakes go and remake it but also extend the universe they created.

This movie brought us Martin Sensmeier! This was his breakout film and he went on to have roles in West World, The Liberator, and Wind River! He's a hell of an actor that did a killer job in this movie.

While some stuff was problematic in this, overall the Native representation is better than it has been. So I recommend checking this one out. Listen to me discuss the positives, negatives, and also why I believe Jonathan Joss's character looks like he's straight out of an Edward Curtis photograph.

Interview w/ Pilar Agoyo Mar 23, 2021

Pilar Agoyo...wow! I never gave a thought to the costume and wardrobe department. After meeting and getting to know Pilar, I am going to pay EXTRA attention to the costume design, artistry, and craftsmanship. She blew my mind, opened my eyes to appreciate a whole new side of film/TV shows.

Started her career as a seamstress for Into the West in 2005, when the TV show needed her in a pinch! She loved her time working on the show, made such an impression, and kept working. Sixteen (16) years later Pilar has amassed an impressive body of work that goes from television shows to movies.

Pilar is one of the most impressive individuals you'll ever hear from, she has story after story but also her work is impeccable. She has done work on films such as The Avengers (Yeah no kidding), 3:10 to Yuma, Paul, Indian Jones and the Crystal Skull, and most recently on the TV show Roswell. She is killing it and I had a great chat with her. Enjoy, subscribe, and let me know what you think. Have a good one!

Reel Injun w/ Twindigenous Mar 09, 2021

Reel Injun is one of a kind. This documentary eloquently and concisely presents the history of Native American representation in film, from the start to now.

Since the capability to record became available, Natives were on screen. There has been a fascination with Native people since colonization and this film delves into that fascination. Along the way, stereotypes were created and perpetuated in film. These stereotypes framed mindsets and opinions about who Native people were, to non-Native people. What blows my mind is it also frames the minds of Native people. Misrepresentation in film and television influence how we as Native people see even ourselves. The film documents experiences and perspectives from people like Clint Eastwood, John Trudell, Adam Beach, and Chris Eyre. While referencing movies like The Searchers, Dances with Wolves, Stagecoach, The Fast Runner, and Dance Me Outside. Listen as we discuss how awesome this documentary is and why it is so important.

Ever since I met the hosts of Twindigenous, we wanted to review a movie together. Reel Injun resonates so much with us that we wanted to take the time to discuss this one, so glad we did! Listen as chat about how much we love this documentary and how powerful it is a film.

The Quick and the Dead Feb 27, 2021

The Quick and the Dead! How the hell did this movie manage to get this much star power!? Sharon Stone, Russell Crowe, Leonardo DiCaprio, Gene Hackman, and Jonothon Gill (Spotted Horse)!? Native actor that arguably has the most suspenseful gun fight in the film!

Combine a single elimination tournament with a spoof western, you get one of the best westerns of all time...yeah I went there!

This movie was an homage to the western drama while being an exaggeration of all the classic western characters. Cowboy with no name, person who sleeps on dynamite, villian who runs the town out of fear, and the man sworn to never killing again. Among of these was the Native! Can't pay respect to the western genre without a Native. How did this movie do? Overall, it's better than the western genre as a whole but it fell flat at times. Listen as I explore the representation, positive and negative. Enjoy!

Indianz.com Co-Founder - Acee Agoyo Feb 15, 2021

Can you believe it, episode 23! (Shoutout to Michael Jordan)

I had to do the number justice and I feel like I did with this guest. Acee Agoyo is a co-founding member of Indianz.com and has been a journalist for the past 21 years. He is a Native man that saw a void in media coverage and jumped at the opportunity to fill it. I admire that tenacity and willingness to thrust yourself into that void, I attempt to do that with my podcast.

Listen to this interview as we discuss Native representation in mainstream media, how that is influenced by representation in news. Also he describes the landscape of Native film and television over the past 21 years, how it has changed in many ways but also stayed the same in others. I had a great chat with a great mind, hope you all enjoy!

Let's Talk Native Film News! Feb 08, 2021

I go on a 20 minute rant about pretendians. If you're not about that, I don't recommend you listen to this one, skip it until next week. As a rez kid, it hits me different than someone not from a rez, or not brown, or not accepted by their community, or not enrolled because of government bullsh*t. Truth is, the Native experience is so broad that the very concept of "Pretendians" hits different and means different things for everyone. So if you're interested to hear one Native person's perspective, listen in.

The news about Michelle Latimer is just another one in the long line of people who claim indigenous ancestry as heritage. Johnny Depp, Elizabeth Warren, Val Kilmer, Iron Eyes Cody, and the list goes on. Why does this keep happening?! Why do we continue to see it happening? How can we have a productive conversation without ostracizing our own people and making them feel less than?! Such a delicate issue that exemplifies that checking the box is more than just checking the box. The consequences are grave and run deep.

I also talk about Clubhouse, my upcoming YouTube videos, Yellowstone 1883, Trickster, Wild Indian at Sundance, and talk about being featured on a Natives React video!!!

Have a good one everybody.

Wonder Woman Feb 02, 2021

A Native is acknowledge in the same world as Superman, Batman, and Wonder Woman! Not only acknowledged but freaking a demigod himself! Napi!

Come listen as I go over the plot review, Eugene Brave Rock's casting, filmography, and discuss Native representation in this film.

Wonder Woman is a fantastic film on its own and the Native represetnation is on point, while I have a few things to gripe about...overall it's a solid film. Listen as I talk about why Eugene Brave Rock was the perfect person for this role! While his speaking roles are limited, he killed this role. Enjoy!

Interview with Natalie Benally Jan 23, 2021

Well well well...here we are episode 20! I had guest Natalie Benally on for this one and it was a fun chat!

She is an actor/filmmaker/community advocate/dancer/choreographer and the list goes on. Most important she is all around wholesome person and advocate for accurate representation of Natives on screen. I enjoyed talking with her about why it's hard to break into Hollywood when you don't have the right look, her TikTok following, where she plans to take her career, and the overall outlook of Native representation in film and television.

Hope you all enjoyed the conversation!

Predator (1987) Jan 16, 2021

"There's something out there waiting for us...it ain't no man."

Billy (Sonny Landham) died for our sins!

I have a guest, my best friend Chris! We grew up quoting this movie so much with him and my other friends, who better than him to discuss this epic film. Plus he's Navajo and this is called...Native Film Talk. It's about time we get some Natives on here so discuss the film.

Listen as we recap the character Billy, he was gushing with stereotypes but was that enough to not like this movie? Also we go discuss the representation positives, negatives, and bring it home with some talk about the upcoming Predator 5 (Which is supposed to be about Natives.) Enjoy, leave a review, and let me know what you think!

The Grizzlies Jan 10, 2021

Directed by Miranda De Pencier

This 2018 film is based on the actual Grizzlies from 2005. A community that had the highest suicide rate in North America, glommed onto the game of Lacrosse. Introduced to them by a non-Native outsider Russ Sheppard. He uses the game to distract the students from their reality but also to teach them about becoming a community and not just teammates. This movie is THE Native sports movie because there are nothing but Indigenous kids acting in roles where Indigenous kids should be acting.

This is a film documents a community's struggles with youth suicide as a result of Residential School, colonialism, substance abuse, and domestic violence. While this movie paints a bleak outlook it also details how a community found hope through their youth and reconnecting them with their culture. I love this film and thank you for listening!

Thunderheart Jan 02, 2021

This 1992 movie is based on real events. Director Michael Apted also releaded Incident At Oglala, which can be a companion film to this movie, as they overlap so much.

While this is a fictional tale, it is 100% inspired by true events. There are many parallels from the American Indian Movement, involvement of the Tribal Chairperson with the U.S. Government, Guardians of the Oglala Nation (GOONs), etc. This movie is pretty darn accurate.

Accuracy aside, this is a tale of Ray Levoi (Kilmer) who is an FBI Agent with blood connections to the Oglala Sioux. The movie takes place on their reservation, after a murder. The movie explores the civil unrest, dynamic between the government/tribe, and dives into the connection of Ray Levoi to his Native roots. This exciting murder mystery takes an solid look at Rez life from an outsider, battling with being accepted by the community and trying to come to terms with his own identity.

Come listen as I discuss the plot, positives, negatives, and final thoughts on this great film.

In Whose Honor w/ Jay Rosenstein Dec 26, 2020

I had a fantastic conversation with Jay. Safe to say, he's invited to any cookout, pow wow, potluck, etc. Jay is a real one, he stuck his neck out for a message that he knew needed to be told.

That message is Charlene Teters' story from her time as a graduate student at the University of Illinois, and her opposition of the school mascot, Chief Illiniwek.

Jay is a special individual that is truly an ally for Indian Country. Listen to this conversation and hear us chat about his career almost being jeopardized by this film, why this film is his crowning achievement in his career, and also why he wouldn't make this film today.

In Whose Honor with guest Charlene Teters Dec 19, 2020

The legendary, unparalleled, prolific, powerful, and all around amazing person...Charlene Teters.

We briefly discuss the documentary, In Whose Honor, but mostly deep dive into Charlene's time at the University of Illinois and her experience being an advocate for changing the name. Charlene discusses her evolution from being a shy girl that stayed quiet about her opinions on the Native mascot to becoming the sole advocate for changing the university mascot, Chief Illiniwek.

She has had an illustrious career and up to this point she has been an artist, activist, professor, academic dean, and icon in Indian Country. I am happy to share this conversation with you all.

While this is not directly related to film, it shows how film representation can influence reality. This documentary and conversation demonstrates how film and television frames mindsets about what Native people are and what "Honoring" looks like to non-Native people.

Enjoy this episode and join us next week when we chat about this documentary with Director Jay Rosenstein!

Fargo Dec 12, 2020

Oh Jeez!

This 1996 Coen Brothers film, Fargo depicts a tale of greed, self-sabotage, and authentic life in North Dakota. (Especially the accent)

While Shep Proudfoot (Steve Reevis) was only on screen for a few minutes in the film, he managed to become an iconic character in the collection of Coen Brothers films. Most famous for the epic beating he gives to Steve Buscemi.

While he doesn't wear war paint, admits he's Native, live on a reservation, or is called "Indian." Shep is a Native on screen and somehow everyone watching knew it. How did that happen?!

Listen as I explore casting of Shep Proudfoot, Native representation on screen, positives, and negatives. ALSO I will reveal did Shep actually know Carl?! If he did know him, why did he lie to Jerry? If he didn't know him, how did he know what Carl looked like when he beat him up?

Come along and listen!

Indian Horse Dec 05, 2020

This 2017 film based on the book written by Richard Wagamese tells the story of Saul Indian Horse. The story follows his life through residential school in Canada, his journey playing hockey, the racism associated with the game, and reconciling with the pain of his past.

Overall, this a powerful tale that NEEDED to be told and was told the right way, with Natives playing Saul Indian Horse and speaking Ojibwe in the film.

While at times you may want to shut off the movie, it accurately documents a crucial point in Canada's history that was long hidden from the books. Now this tale is a part of high school curriculum across the country.

This story will educate the future about what the First Nations people endured during a dark period in the nation's history while also showing the resilience and power of the indigenous people. Come listen to the episode as we go over the cast review, plot, positives, negatives, and final thoughts.

Reflection Episode! Nov 26, 2020

This is me looking back at the podcast thus far.

Eleven episodes in, how do I feel about where things lie?
Where do I see the show going?
How do I choose a movie to review?
"Ian you're Native, what are your thoughts on Thanksgiving?"
"I suggested movies/tv to you, when are you going to review my recommendations?!"
"Do you ever read what I send?"
Last and most important...How can Native film learn from Schitt's Creek?

If you've ever thought about any of these questions, good news, this is the episode for you! Listen and let me know what you think!

Don't worry we're back on schedule next week!

Wes Studi: 2019 Academy Honorary Award Nov 21, 2020

HISTORY!

Wes Studi joins an amazing list of Honorary Award winners like Robert Redford, Spike Lee, Charlie Chaplan, Akira Kurosawa, James Earl Jones, and the list goes on! These people are recognized for significant achievements in their craft, over an entire career.

Wes trailblazed an impressive career where he amazed and dazzled audiences with roles like Toughest Pawnee in Dances with Wolves, Magua in The Last of the Mohicans, and Geronimo in Geronimo: An American Legend. Added depth, intelligence, and language to characters that would be represented inadequately otherwise.

Wes changed the trajectory of an industry that historically misrepresented Native Americans on screen, and is recognized for it on this night. Listen as I recap Wes's career, life, and the presenting of the award itself.

Also I explain, what the hell an actual Honorary Award (Oscar) is and why it's so significant!

Bottom line...a Native won an Oscar...get excited! Be excited and listen as I dedicate an episode to the G.O.A.T.

The Indian in the Cupboard Nov 14, 2020

Here it is! The 1995 film, The Indian in the Cupboard.

With a name like the Indian in the Cupboard, what could go wrong?!

Starring Litefoot as Little Bear, in his acting debut! He falls into the ownership of a boy Omri, for his 9th birthday. Omri is also gifted a magic cupboard with a magic key that brings any inanimate object to life, upon locking and unlocking it inside the cupboard.

As Omri learns, Little Bear is a real person that was taken from his time. What is a 9 year old boy to do with a tiny human? Make more of course!

Come listen as I unpack the moral dilemma of making that Omri finds himself in, while also assessing the racial slurs that are never corrected, why Little Bear thinks Omri is the Great Spirit, and why does Little Bear need to hunt in the movie?!

Timestamps below:

Initial thoughts: 0:00-8:52 Cast Review: 8:52-11:00 Plot: 11:00-53:20 Positives: 53:20-56:02 Negatives: 56:02-57:38 Final Thoughts: 57:38-67:47

Hope you all enjoy the episode, let me know what you think. Visit the website, shoot me a DM on IG, and subscribe!

Smoke Signals Nov 07, 2020

Hey Victor!

Come listen as I review one of the greatest Native stories ever told on big screen. Let's talk about what scenes, lines, and characters reverberate throughout Indian Country today.

I love this movie, but I didn't always love it. This movie changes with you and ages along with you. As I re-watched this movie now as a man, father, and husband, this is far different from when I first saw it as a teenager.

I'll discuss what this movie meant for us Natives back in 1998 and what it'll mean moving forward. Also why does this 22 year old movie feel like the high point? I'll discuss why it feels like a high point and where we go from here.

But mostly, you'll listen to me fanboy over this movie, recite some favorite scenes, and share some personal stories about my connection to this film. Come with me and reminisce about Smoke Signals!

It's a good day to be Indigenous!

Blood Quantum Oct 31, 2020

Should go without saying but...SPOILERS! I will review the cast, plot, positives/negatives on representation, and gives some final thoughts.

Sit back, and enjoy my review of this 2019 film by Jeff Barnaby...talk about a zombie film for the ages! This film takes place on the fictional Red Crow Reserve in 1981, a zombie outbreak happens that affects the salmon supply, water, and eventually the people. However, the only people that are immune the virus, the Natives. Non-native people seek refuge within a band of immune Native people and turmoil ensues as they allow people into their camp who are hiding their bites.

Come along as I talk about how awesome this movie is, where it will be ranked in the history of Native film, and why this should be made into a TV show.

Windtalkers Oct 22, 2020

Listen as I talk about the casting choices, plot issues, reminisce about my first time seeing this film on the big screen, and why this movie is more a Nick Cage war film and less a Code Talker story.

Time stamps below:

Intro/Movie Overview: 0:30-7:10 Cast Review: 7:10-11:00 Plot Review: 11:00-41:58 Reflection of Plot: 41:58-43:00 Positives: 43:00-44:50 Negatives: 44:50-48:01 Final Thoughts: 48:01-59:59 What's Coming Up Next: 59:59-1:01:55

Talk to you later!

The Last of the Mohicans Oct 17, 2020

First things first! Magua is the GOAT. Wes Studi should've been nominated for an Oscar, he was snubbed!

The Last of the Mohicans (1992) based on the novel by James Finnemoore Cooper. This is the ninth time that Hollywood made this 1826 book into a movie. This romance tale that occurs during the French-Indian War depicts where the Mohicans and Huron fell into this war at this time. Daniel Day Lewis plays Hawkeye, a white man who was adopted as a child to the last living Mohicans, Chingachgook (Russell Means) and his son Uncas (Eric Schweig). The trio of Mohicans come across revenge seeking Magua as he hopes to avenge the death of his family, who were killed at the hands of General Munro. Magua seeks to kill General Munro's children, Alice and Cora Munro. This story unfolds with Hawkeye falling in love with one of the women who Magua seeks to kill, Cora. Hawkeye and Cora fight for their love and survival! This action packed movie, depicts an epic tale that shows Natives speaking multiple languages, a LOT of natives, no Redface, no white savior (I'll discuss it), and feature one of the best soundtracks to ever grace this planet. Enjoy this episode and hit that subscribe button!

Pocahontas Oct 10, 2020

Here it is! Pocahontas (1995) is about a free spirited young woman that is caught between her freedom and an arranged marriage, until sails comes on the horizon. John Smith (Mel Gibson) and the Virginia Company come to the New World in search of gold and will kill any Indians in their path! John Smith comes across Pocahontas (Irene Bedard) and this hunt for gold eventually becomes a quest for love against all odds. Can the power of love conquer the hunger for gold?

This episode is a complicated review because I loved this movie as a kid! You will hear me go back and forth about the right and wrong of this movie, and where I stand on it. As I unpack this moral conundrum, I shed light on some post production interviews conducted by Russell Means (Chief Powatan) and Irene Bedard that reveal they were proud of the native representation in this film. Also this is the first Disney princess that didn't need rescuing, however...despite these positives, will it hold up as a movie that depicts natives positively? Come listen and find out!

1973 Oscars: Marlon Brando Oct 05, 2020

A moment in Native film history! 1973 Academy Awards. Roger Moore is ready to hand the Oscar for Best Actor to Marlon Brando for his work in The Godfather when he sees a Native American woman walking to the stage. Sacheen Littlefeather refuses to take the award and says Marlon Brando sent her! This moment sent shockwaves across the film industry. 85 million people saw this moment in Oscars history.

But Marlon did it because of the treatment of Natives at the Wounded Knee Occupation and the perpetuating of negative stereotypes of Native people in film. This moment represents a maturation point in Native Film history when a larger conversation began about accurate representation of Native people, along with other minorities in film.

Wind River Oct 03, 2020

Wind River (2017), Directed by Taylor Sheridan who also wrote Sicario and Hell or Highwater, also creator of Yellowstone. This guy loves westerns! This movie is a great take on the modern western. Exploring the disappearance and murder of Natalie Hanson (Julia Jones), Cory Lambert (Jeremy Renner) assists local tribal authorities and FBI Agent (Elizabeth Olsen) to find out how this occurred. Throughout the way we are introduced to an all star cast of Native actors and get a glimpse into life on the Wind River Rez and how Missing Murdered Indigenous Women (MMIW) affects an entire community.

Filled with a stout Native cast, does this movie fit the White Savior model that has plagued movies about Natives? Hi Avatar and Dances with Wolves! Come join me as I talk about some of the casting decisions, Hawkeye and Scarlet Witch as leads, accuracy of some stories and ultimately discuss how this movie got it right and where it missed the mark.

Parasite Oct 02, 2020

I love Parasite and I've enjoyed re-watching this movie to prep for the episode. But if you were like me when seeing it for the first time, at one point in the movie you thought, "Wait is that a teepee?!"

This thriller is ripe with twists and turns, including native imagery! Join me as I talk about the random instances of cheap "Indian" decorations, native historical references, and symbolism within the film. However, if we know anything about the Oscar winning director, Bong Joon Ho, nothing is random! He planted these images and curated the set intentionally to tell us something, what is that?...come find out.

Introduction to Native Film Talk! Oct 01, 2020

Welcome! Ya'at'eeh! Thank you for joining me on the first episode of the podcast. I created this podcast because I couldn't find anyone talking about Natives in film. Not on YouTube, Social Media, or other Podcasts. So I siezed the opportunity to combine my love for podcasts and film. I hope you find my perspective to be fresh, insightful, and makes you curious to hear more.

In this episode, I talk about why I decided to create this podcast, my vision for the show, and ideas I have for upcoming episodes.

Our TOPPODCAST Picks

Follow Us

Stay Connected

Related Podcasts

Links

Stay Connected