Smoke Signals Thesis

Smoke signals thesis:

  • Smoke Signals is different from most Native American films, because it sheds light on the problems natives face with their historical background, and stereotypical culture.  The main character, Victor, wrestles with what it means to be a "true Indian" and what being an Indian truly means to him, these struggles are portrayed through stereotypes and historical circumstances the characters face throughout the movie. 

  • Native American Stereotypes

    • alcoholics
    • all live on reservations
    • all have long hair
      • "an indian ain't nothing without his hair"- Victor
    • must keep a stern look
      • "You gotta look mean or no one will respect you"
    • all indians are warriors
      • "Its a good day to die" <-- uses this saying a lot in film
    • the indian always loses

  • Native American Struggle with History
    • reoccurring topic of Christopher Columbus 

    • "kill the Indian save the man"
    • poverty
    • alcoholism
    • reservations
    • minority
      • most whites do not respect Native Americans
      • "White people will walk all over you...", "you gotta look like a warrior" - victor
    • "The cowboy always wins"

  • Native American History= Power/Meaning

    • Native to the US
    • sense of Agriculture/Nature 
    • Culture 
      • Fry bread
      • dances/ songs
    • close relationships with other native americans 

  • Native American Cultural Traditions 

    • Culture 
      • Fry bread
      • dances/ songs
    • Strong sense of identity 


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