For over 100 years, Hollywood cinema has crafted the ultimate "villain"- the Indian, as they were labeled in early Westerns. Confined almost exclusively to this genre, the Western became a vehicle for American racism, obscuring the genocide upon which the United States was built. In this documentary, only Native Americans are given a voice to share their story, one that has been overshadowed by Hollywood's portrayal. Their narrative, part of the larger American story, highlights how cinema has long been used as a powerful propaganda tool, distorting history and perpetuating harmful stereotypes.
Acting
Irene Bedard and Tantoo Cardinal bring decades of lived experience.
Writing
Native voices only — no white historians explaining their own oppression.
Director
Julia Kuperberg
Trivia, insights & behind the scenes
The Kuperberg sisters are French, which adds fascinating layers — European audiences consumed these American myths without the same national guilt.
Hanay Geiogamah founded the Native American Theatre Ensemble in 1972 after watching one too many racist Westerns. His exhausted laugh when describing 'Indian' casting calls is unforgettable.
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