Prey and Indigenous Representation

Matthew and Riki dive deep into Indigenous representation in media,
using the 2022 film Prey as a launching point for a broader
discussion about the evolution of Native American portrayals in
Hollywood. The conversation explores how this Predator franchise
entry breaks new ground while honoring both the source material and
Indigenous culture.How does Prey set a new standard for Indigenous
representation? The hosts discuss the film's groundbreaking
achievements, including its predominantly Native cast led by Amber
Midthunder, authentic cultural consultation, and the historic
creation of a Comanche language dub – a first in movie history. The
discussion highlights how producer Jane Myers' involvement as a
Comanche and Blackfoot consultant helped ensure cultural
authenticity throughout production.What can we learn from
revisiting Dances With Wolves (1990)? Riki presents a compelling
case for reexamining the film's legacy, arguing that while
imperfect, it represented a significant step forward in Native
American representation. The hosts explore how the film launched
the careers of prominent Native actors like Graham Greene and Wes
Studi, while setting new standards for language authenticity and
cultural portrayal in mainstream Hollywood.How do these films
compare to other attempts at cultural representation? The
conversation expands to examine other films like The Last Samurai
and Avatar, discussing the complex dynamics of white savior
narratives and the importance of authentic cultural consultation in
historical dramas.Other topics covered:

The evolution of the Predator franchise and how Prey
reinvents it

The role of French trappers in the film and their thematic
significance

The importance of authentic language use in Indigenous films

The impact of Dances With Wolves on subsequent Native
American representation in Hollywood

The complexities of casting Native actors across different
tribal affiliations

The problematic aspects of The Last Samurai and its
historical inaccuracies

The representation of Indigenous peoples in modern media and
tourist culture

The episode concludes by emphasizing the ongoing journey
toward better Indigenous representation in media, highlighting both
the progress made and the work still needed. While Prey represents
a significant step forward, the hosts acknowledge that authentic
representation requires continued commitment from the entertainment
industry to elevate Indigenous voices both in front of and behind
the camera.Use these links to get some of the books and movies we
mention on the podcast, while helping us keep the lights on!

Comanche Marker Trees of Texas by Jimmy Arterberry, one of
the authenticity consultants on Prey

Prey

Dances with Wolves

The Last Samurai

Avatar


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This episode is a production of Superhero Ethics, a The Ethical
Panda Podcast and part of the TruStory FM Entertainment Podcast
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