Family Films Celebrating Native American Culture

Description: A magical tale where a young boy discovers that his toy cupboard can bring his plastic figures to life, including a Native American figure named Little Bear, teaching lessons about respect and understanding.

Fact: The film was based on the first book of a series by Lynne Reid Banks. It sparked discussions about the portrayal of Native Americans in children's literature and media.

Description: This animated Disney classic introduces children to the story of Pocahontas, a Powhatan woman, and her interactions with English settlers, highlighting themes of cultural understanding and environmental respect.

Fact: Pocahontas was the first Disney Princess based on a real historical figure. The film was criticized for historical inaccuracies but praised for its message of peace and understanding.

Description: A coming-of-age story about two young Native American men from the Coeur d'Alene tribe, this film delves into themes of friendship, identity, and the impact of historical trauma.

Fact: This was the first feature film to be written, directed, co-produced, and acted by Native Americans. It was adapted from Sherman Alexie's book "The Lone Ranger and Tonto Fistfight in Heaven."

Description: Based on the novel, this film follows the life of Little Tree, a boy raised by his Cherokee grandparents, learning about nature, life, and the injustices faced by Native Americans.

Fact: The book on which the film is based was later revealed to be written by a white man, sparking controversy over authenticity.

Description: While not strictly a family film, it's educational for older children, focusing on the Navajo code talkers during WWII, showcasing their crucial role and the cultural aspects of the Navajo people.

Fact: The film was criticized for its portrayal of Native Americans but praised for bringing attention to the code talkers' contributions.

Description: Terrence Malick's poetic retelling of the Pocahontas story, focusing on the romance between her and John Smith, and the cultural clash between settlers and Native Americans.

Fact: The film was shot in chronological order to capture the natural aging of the actors, particularly Q'orianka Kilcher, who played Pocahontas.

Description: This epic film follows a Union Army Lieutenant who befriends a tribe of Lakota Indians, offering a deep dive into their way of life and the beauty of the American frontier.

Fact: Kevin Costner, who starred and directed, won the Best Director Oscar for this film. It was also one of the first films to use the Lakota language extensively.

Description: This HBO film explores the aftermath of the Battle of Little Bighorn and the Wounded Knee Massacre, focusing on the lives of Charles Eastman and Sitting Bull, providing historical context for family discussions.

Fact: The film is based on Dee Brown's book of the same name, which was instrumental in changing public perception of Native American history.

Description: This documentary-style film tells the story of Wilma Mankiller, the first female Principal Chief of the Cherokee Nation, focusing on her efforts to bring water to her community.

Fact: It was inspired by the real-life events and achievements of Wilma Mankiller, showcasing her leadership and community service.

Description: A grandfather tells his grandson stories of Native American legends, blending modern-day issues with ancient tales, offering a rich cultural narrative.

Fact: The film was produced by Hallmark Entertainment and features a blend of live-action and CGI to bring the legends to life.