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Native Americans take spotlight in Kevin Costner's noble westernBy Mark PerryThere are times when the events that unfold in “Dances With Wolves” seem a little bit too convenient.This fictional saga of a white American who is slowly drawn towards the noble lifestyle of a neighboring tribe of Sioux Indians often borders on wishful thinking, with certain factors making the path to brotherhood pretty easy.But the work of Kevin Costner, making his directorial debut in addition to starring as Union soldier John J. Dunbar, is so compelling and heartfelt that you can’t help but be drawn into his vision.“Dances With Wolves” also features the most fully developed depiction of Native Americans in recent memory (“Little Big Man” is probably the only film that comes close), offering a glimpse into many aspects of the Sioux life outside of their battles.Dunbar is the only soldier at a fort on the western frontier(how he got there is one of this film’s delights, and will be saved for the viewer). Realizing that he has been abandoned, he decides to make contact with his nearest neighbors, and ends up winning the Sioux’s trust almost by accident, rescuing a wounded white woman who has been adopted by the tribe.With her vague remembrance of the English language, this woman (Mary McDonell), who has been named Stands With a Fist, also turns out to be Dunbar’s link with the Sioux leaders.Without any of his own kind to lend companionship, Dunbar actively seeks acceptance by the tribe. Their respect is demonstrated when they give him an Indian name, Dances With Wolves (because Dunbar was seen chasing a wolf that he had befriended while at the fort).Dunbar is soon immersed in every facet of the Sioux life. He participates in a buffalo hunt (the film’s best visual moment occurs when the Indians locate the huge herd), aids his friendsin a battle with a rival tribe and shares tales of triumphs around the tribal campfire.In the process we meet the important figures in the Sioux hierarchy. The tribe’s holy man, Kicking Bird (Graham Greene), will become the soldier’s bestfriend. Wind In His Hair (Rodney A. Grant), the warrior, grudgingly holds back his respect. The elderly chief, Ten Bears (Floyd Red Crow Wester-man), imparts a volume of wisdom in very few words.There’s also a touch of romance, as Dunbar and Stands■ See ‘DANCES’, Page 12Dances With Wolves”'k'k'k'kDirected by Kevin Costner; Screenplay by Michael Blake baaed on his novel; Photographed by Dean Simler; Edited by Neil Travia; Muaic by John Barry; Produced by Jim Wilson and Kevin Costner.An Orion Pictures release. Rated PG-13.THE CASTLieut. Dunbar............................Kevin CostnerStands With a Fist......... Mary McDonnellKicking Bird Graham GreeneWind In His Hair Rodney A. GrantTen Bears ....Floyd Red Crow WesternmanBlack Shawl.. _______________Tantoo CardinalTimmons ................................Robert Pastorelli
Newspaper Details
Orland Park Star
Orland Park, Illinois, US
Thu, Nov 29, 1990
Page 66
Full Page
Clipped by
Jon C.
NJ, USA 17 Jan 2020
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