In over 100 years of productions, positive and well-rounded Indigenous characters have been notably missing from film and television. The history of Indigenous representation is a long and messy one, with the absence of Indigenous voices in Hollywood resulting in decades of misrepresentation.
However, some filmmakers are more willing to listen. The blockbuster film Wonder Woman, released in 2017, is one of the biggest films in recent history to have an Indigenous supporting character. Canadian actor Eugene Brave Rock played Chief Napi, a Blackfoot demi-god who accompanies the title character in her journey across Europe. The actor said he was originally worried about his character relying on stereotypes, but when he approached the director with his concerns, she gave him “unprecedented” control of his character. It’s clear this is a landmark of positive Indigenous representation in Hollywood: listening to Indigenous voices.
Taking their stories into their own hands, Indigenous writers, actors, directors, and producers are expanding Indigenous representation into every genre of film and television. From family drama Empire of Dirt to sports film The Grizzlies, an increasing number of Indigenous films are gaining recognition. In the past three years, over 20 Indigenous-made films have been shown at the world-renowned Sundance Film Festival. As more and more Indigenous filmmakers break into the industry, Indigenous peoples’ stories on screen will finally have the chance to be told the right way.