6 Excellent Films & TV Shows By & About Native Americans That You Need To Watch ASAP!

If you went to see Killers of the Flower Moon and wanted more stories centered around Native Americans, then this list is for you! Unfortunately, and historically, films about Native Americans have been told by other non-Native people. These stories created many dangerous and offensive depictions of Native Americans. However, in recent years, more and more incredible Native filmmakers and writers are telling their own stories. This is just a few of those great TV shows and movies! 

1. Smoke Signals (1998) 

Smoke Signals is one of the best Native American films everyone should watch. This coming-of-age story is not only touching but very funny at times. This film is historic in that it was one of the first mainstream Native American films made by Natives about Native Americans. If you want a heartwarming and hilarious film, look no further! Not to mention Michael Greyeyes! Stream on Showtime.

2. "Reservation Dogs" (2021-2023) 

"Reservation Dogs" is a hilarious and heartwarming series about a group of Native American kids living in rural Oklahoma who occasionally commit petty crimes or fight crime to save money. This show, created by Taika Waititi and featuring a stellar cast of Native actors, is both funny and gut-wrenching at times. Dealing with both heavy subject matter and hilarious premises, "Reservation Dogs' is an incredible coming-of-age story. Stream on Hulu.

3. "Dark Winds" (2022-)

"Dark Winds" is a TV show starring the incredible Zahn McClarnon (who also appears in "Reservation Dogs") about detectives and the FBI investigation into a bank robbery as well as the death of Native Americans in the Navajo region. This mystery series will have you on the edge of your seat the entire time! If you want an incredible story with fantastic characters at the center of the story, this show is for you. Two seasons are currently available, and the series has been renewed for a third! Stream on AMC+.

4. "Rutherford Falls" (2021-2022)

This hilarious sitcom is about two best friends who wrestle with their past histories and interests for their town, Rutherford Falls. This hilarious show will have you laughing the entire time. Although this show is funny, it has some important life lessons and aspirational characters. And, of course, we can't forget the casino-owning lovable guy played by none other than Michael Greyeyes! Stream on Peacock.

5. Wild Indian (2021)

Wild Indian is a fantastic thriller about two best friends who, as kids, covered up the murder of one of their schoolmates and have to reconcile with their past as adults. This nail-biting film is full of shocking moments that will surprise you while watching. And, yes, it also stars the amazing Michael Greyeyes! Stream on Starz.

6. Dance Me Outside (1994)

This fantastic film is about a group of friends who want to get revenge on the white murderer who killed someone on their reservation and only got sentenced to two years. This groundbreaking film is not only a powerful story about the injustices done to Native American women but also a heartwarming coming-of-age story. This film will have you laughing and crying the entire time, with its colorful characters and engaging story. And -- you guessed it -- Michael Greyeyes! Stream on Apple TV.