Although undoubtedly a great achievement,Dances With Wolves was definitely NOT the first major film to depict Native Americnas in a sympathetic light. There was Apache and Broken Arrow in the 50s,and quite a few in the 70s. This one,although not really a great film like the same year's Little Big Man,is nonetheless a very interesting watch.
Containing very little dialogue,and not really much action,a Man Called Horse is maybe not the most entertaining film,but the almost documentary style depiction of Native American life is fascinating and convincing. In some ways,it's more honest than Dances With Wolves. Whereas that film had a somewhat overly 'nice' view of Sioux life that seemed almost simplistic,this one doesn't say away from the less pleasant side. Look at the way they treat their elderly in this film! A shame they couldn't find more Native Americans for the cast though.
Most famous for it's 'Sun Vow' scene,where Richard Harris {in definitely one of his best roles}hangs by hooks through his nipples in a ritual to prove himself as a man,this is a dour and downbeat film,but it's familiar story of a man alone in an alien culture trying to prove himself is occasionally rousing ,such as in the battle near the end,and does have it's touching moments,such as when Harris and his future bride first tentatively notice each other.
Maybe not for all tastes,but essential viewing if you're interested in the subject.
Containing very little dialogue,and not really much action,a Man Called Horse is maybe not the most entertaining film,but the almost documentary style depiction of Native American life is fascinating and convincing. In some ways,it's more honest than Dances With Wolves. Whereas that film had a somewhat overly 'nice' view of Sioux life that seemed almost simplistic,this one doesn't say away from the less pleasant side. Look at the way they treat their elderly in this film! A shame they couldn't find more Native Americans for the cast though.
Most famous for it's 'Sun Vow' scene,where Richard Harris {in definitely one of his best roles}hangs by hooks through his nipples in a ritual to prove himself as a man,this is a dour and downbeat film,but it's familiar story of a man alone in an alien culture trying to prove himself is occasionally rousing ,such as in the battle near the end,and does have it's touching moments,such as when Harris and his future bride first tentatively notice each other.
Maybe not for all tastes,but essential viewing if you're interested in the subject.