Oh, the Sioux tribe members had a very interesting
"comment" to make about their portrayal in Dances with Wolves, so
let me use that story to answer your question.
First, it's
important to realize that Dances with Wolves is what is known as a
"Revisionist Western." That just means the Native Americans are seen in a positive
light while the United States soldiers are seen in a negative light. This is absolutely
so in the context of this film. The Sioux tribe members are brave and compassionate
while the soldiers (even Dunbar when he considered himself a soldier) are cowardly and
coldhearted.
John Dunbar makes a journey from cowardliness
to bravery through his association and acceptance into the Sioux tribe. The film was so
well done, received so many awards, and went such a long way in improving the
consideration of Native American tribes, that the Sioux tribe actually accepted Kevin
Costner (the main actor and director) into the Sioux Nation as an honorary member. If
that's not a "comment" on the that particular media portrayal, then I don't know what
is!
In regards to your question, also consider that any
"Traditional Western" film would probably have negative comments from Native Americans
associated with it. This is because, in these films, the Native Americans were usually
seen as disgraceful villains.
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