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This movie brought so much to the big screen—highlighting Indigenous culture and language in such a significant way. It’s an incredibly sad story, and it’s stuck with me, much like other dark chapters in history. I can see why so many people love this film: the cinematography is stunning, and the story's epic scope is impressive. That said, I’m still waiting for a movie where Kevin Costner truly wows me. I will say, his sincerity came through here, and I was surprised to learn he directed it! The story he brought to life was powerful and well-crafted. Overall, I really appreciated this movie for what it stands for, but I don’t think it’s breaking into my top 10. Still, it’s worth the watch even though it's a hard one.

Let me know your thoughts!

xx

ames

Files

Dances With Wolves (1990) Theatrical Cut

Comments

Michael T

I love that movie! Except I watched it fairly recently... so will you also be posting a shorter, edited version of this reaction, Ames?

RFK Fan

Understandable this isn't in your top 10 but certainly is in my Top 5 westerns. Can't overstate the brilliant job Kevin did for his first Directorial effort here. It's really a masterpiece of filmmaking combining epic landscapes, story, cinematography, music and an absolutely stellar cast. The Buffalo scene ALONE ranks it, in my opinion, as one of the genre's greatest ever captured on film. John Ford would have envied of that shot! Might be a bit dated now since 93 but is a GREAT example of why we go to see movies in the Theatre. Look forward to your OPEN RANGE reaction. His 2nd directorial effort and I think the best western I've seen in 20 years.

Catchermag

I think it’s possible that if he didn’t wow you in this he may not wow you in other films either. That said, for me his best acting works are in Bill Durham, No Way Out, The Untouchables…..and a VERY underrated movie that Clint Eastwood directed called A Perfect World. If those still don’t do it for ya with his acting, you could always watch The Big Chill, where a very believable Kevin Costner plays……a dead body.

JM63

Side hair part FTW 😂

Randolph Tirazona

Thank you Ames! Being a 'half-breed' of the Tlingit Nation (Alaska) this tugs not only at my heart and soul but every fiber of my being. In this year alone 1990 there are about 33 movies that are "must see's!" For myself it's all about experiencing 'this cinematic world' where each movie is a universe unto it's own - and it's like I'm sharing it with you and "My Movie Posse" as my wife calls 'y'all' lol And I love your 'takes'/'outro's' too! As they give 'great insight' on many aspects I may have never thought of!

Clay F

Putting on your reaction now. Costner won Best Director Oscar for this movie.

Clay F

You were perceptive early in the movie that John Dunbar was on a path of transformation and growth. Enjoyed your reaction. I was glad you reacted to the theatrical cut because that is the version I have. Plus, I think the theatrical cut is best for a first watch. You can watch your extended cut next. Kicking Bird: "I was just thinking of all the trails in this life, there is one that matters the most. It is the trail of a true human being. I think you are on this trail, and it is good to see." That quote seemed to capture your attention like it did mine. The John Dunbar/Wind in His Hair arc is one of the best arcs of all time. Europeans/European Americans were not the greatest for native Americans. Ten Bears: "They take without asking." I don't think Columbus Day is a big celebration for native Americans. Ten Bears: "You are the only white man I have ever known. I have thought about you a lot. More than you know.... The man the soldiers are looking for no longer exists. Now, there is only a Sioux named Dances With Wolves. Let's smoke awhile."

John Courtright

It is interesting to see how my perspectives and feelings on Dances With Wolves have changed over time. Admittedly, this movie can be a tough first watch, but I think upon multiple viewings the film can begin to have a different feel to it. ***** SPOILERS BELOW ***** Having seen the film many times, my primary experience now is not an overwhelming sense of sadness over the random and needless violence or the poor treatment of indigenous peoples. It is not that I've become numb to those things. (I accept as axiomatic that people without integrity and a strong moral compass are inherently selfish and will take advantage of people over whom they have power.) Rather, I am struck by John Dunbar's powerful example of how people from different walks of life can come to understand one another and learn to live together in peace. That being said, I think it is incredibly important to highlight the poor treatment of indigenous peoples and I think the film does a good job of doing just that. Despite being difficult to watch, those stories need to be told. In addition to its broader themes, I'm glad the film also has some light-hearted and tender moments. The growing friendship and trust between Dunbar and Kicking Bird throughout the film is so satisfying and I think the love story between Dunbar and Stands With a Fist is charming. Also, Wind In His Hair's character arc is amazing! "You know, the man she mourned for... He was my best friend... He was a good man... It has been hard for me to like you... But now I think he went away because you were coming... Dances with Wolves! I am Wind In His Hair. Do you see that I am your friend? Can you see that you will always be my friend?" So powerful!

Randolph Tirazona

OMG! YT Channel: @ultimatediscovery video: "What You Never Realized About Dances With Wolves" A bit long but wow!

Michael Keefer

Yellowstone is a must watch at some point. The characters and dialogue is some of the best written. Every character crushes their role. Your never bored with that show. Whether your laughing, crying or just flat out captivated by what your watching you're definitely gonna be emotional. Plus you've got a couple prequels worth watching afterwards. That show might give you the gotcha moment you're waiting for Costner to show you. If not Cole Hauser and Kelly Reilly are fantastic too

Chris H

Waterworld might be the Costner gig you're looking for.

James Rogers

I'd like to start by mentioning the late Doris Leader Charge. She taught Lakota language and culture at a community college in South Dakota and was the dialogue coach for the film. Plus she got a role as Pretty Shield; wife of Ten Bears. This is an epic film but the sadness never leaves me. I think its the never-ending trail of broken treaties and promises that define the history of the treatment of indigenous peoples. (If anyone wants to do a movie based on the Dakota pipeline I suggest they title it Dances With Wolves of Wall Street). At any rate, I felt your pain and used up a few tissues myself. Here's to a cheerier year ahead.

IP Freeely

ok.. Now do The Postman