Dances with Wolves (1990)

November 29, 2022 9:05 AM

[TRAILER] Civil War soldier John Dunbar (Kevin Costner) develops a relationship with a band of Lakota Indians. Attracted by the simplicity of their lifestyle, he chooses to leave his former life behind to be with them. Having observed him, they give the name Dances With Wolves. Soon he is a welcomed member of the tribe and falls in love with a white woman who has been raised in the tribe. Tragedy results when Union soldiers arrive with designs on the land.

Also starring Mary McDonnell, Graham Greene, Rodney A. Grant, Floyd Red Crow Westerman, Tantoo Cardinal, Robert Pastorelli, Charles Rocket, Maury Chaykin, Jimmy Herman, Nathan Lee Chasing His Horse.

Directed by Kevin Costner. Written by Michael Blake.

87% fresh on Rotten Tomatoes.

Currently streaming in the US on HBO Max. Also available for digital rental in the US on multiple outlets. JustWatch listing.

Today, I'm posting six movies that won the Oscar for Best Picture that have not yet been added to FF.

posted by DirtyOldTown (4 comments total)

This is naïve and simplistic in many ways, but it also comes from a place of really striving for empathy and understanding.

Although response was hardly unanimous (and some groups were upset), this survey of native American reactions to DWW seems to indicate that the film was (with some reservations) generally viewed positively, as a sea change in how Native peoples were portrayed on film.

I've seen the four hour European cut and while I can't say it's necessary, the added footage was mostly enjoyable and it didn't tank the pacing or anything.
posted by DirtyOldTown at 10:03 AM on November 29, 2022

Fun fact—Costner gave his costume designer a puppy. (I produced DVD extras.)
posted by Ideefixe at 10:20 AM on November 29, 2022 [8 favorites]

I haven't seen this since it was first out on television/ payperview. Will need to try to get my hands on the 4-hour version.

(why, yes, I actually like 'Waterworld' and 'The Postman')
posted by porpoise at 12:12 PM on November 29, 2022

If you have the paid version of HBO Max, the extended version is on there.

Look up "Dances with Wolves" then go to "Extras" and it's under there.
posted by DirtyOldTown at 12:24 PM on November 29, 2022 [4 favorites]