Assignment - The Influence of Hollywood

Portrayal or Betrayal

The film 'Reel Injun' documents through humour, satire, interviews and film clips, the ways in which Hollywood films have influenced stereotypes and perceptions of Aboriginal Peoples that in turn, have supported the treatment of Aboriginal Peoples within the greater society.  The film shows how the portrayal of Aboriginal Peoples changed over time.

*** Please note:  In the film and questions, the terms Indian, Natives, Native American and racist 'Injun' are used in reference to the filmmakers' choice and style of script writing.  These terms are NOT meant to be insensitive in any way to modern, correct terminology as explained in the course introduction.

As you watch Reel Injun (below) focus on the following TWO assignments help you focus your viewing and to view for understanding:

1.  When you have finished watching the film, answer ONE of the following two questions in a short paragraph:

• Considering North American history, why do you feel that Hollywood films focused on the Plains First Nations rather than other Aboriginal groups? What would be the purpose of portraying this stereotype?
• Is it only because Aboriginal Peoples are directing their own films now that real change has occurred, or are there other reasons? Explain.

2.  Within Reel Injun, each film 'chapter' shows how the portrayal of Aboriginal people changed over the years.  

• Your task is to choose one of the stereotypes and connect the portrayal to events happening during that time period. 
  • The Disappearing Indian
  • The Good / Noble Indian
  • The Savage Indian and the Cowboy
  • A Good Indian is a Dead Indian
  • The Groovy Indian  
• Create a collage, original drawing, poster, song, video (or other format okayed by your teacher) that responds to the following questions:  
  • How do you feel the portrayal of Aboriginal Peoples was influenced by the events of the time period you have chosen?
  • How did the portrayal help validate policy and treatment of Aboriginals during that time period? 
  • How did the varied portrayal support the Euro-centric views of the greater society of the time period?
• Include a paragraph explaining how your art piece responds to the questions. 

Your assignment will be assessed according to the Assignment Rubric.

Please complete a self-assessment using the rubric and submit it along with the assignment to the Folder: Response to Reel Injun

Watch 'Reel Injun'