Graham Greene has passed away. Who was he? He was a highly respected Canadian First Nations actor who was a trailblazer in the entertainment industry, known for bringing depth and legitimacy to his roles, especially those portraying Indigenous characters. His most notable part was as Kicking Bird in the Oscar-winning film “Dances With Wolves.” For that effort, he received a nomination for Best Supporting Actor. There were many reasons to enjoy that particular movie: the cinematography, the emotional story, and the soundtrack. However, for me, I loved the Bona fide depiction of the Lakota Sioux Tribe. Unlike many previous Westerns, which often portrayed Native Americans as one-dimensional villains, Dances With Wolves presents them as a complex, multi-dimensional society with their own language, customs, humor, and traditions. The film made a deliberate effort to incorporate the Lakota language, using subtitles, and even hired Native American actors for the roles, which was groundbreaking at the time.
This genuine portrayal inspired me to explore the incredible history of the Lakota Sioux—how they became such skilled horsemen, how they truly communed with nature, and how they hunted buffalo and used every part of the animal. Nothing was wasted. Such remarkable people. The takeaway: besides that, you should check out Graham Greene's movies. I believe that authenticity sparks curiosity. When art is done well, it tends to open people's minds and hearts. So, let them in.
“It seems every day ends with a miracle here. And whatever God may be, I thank God for this day” John Dunbar