SYNOPSIS: Cree filmmaker Neil Diamond takes an entertaining and insightful look at the Hollywood Indian, exploring the portrayal of North American Natives through a century of cinema.

Travelling through the heartland of America, Diamond looks at how the myth of “the Injun” has influenced the world’s understanding – and misunderstanding – of Natives.

With clips from hundreds of classic and recent films, and candid interviews with celebrated Native and non-Native directors, writers, actors and activists, including Clint Eastwood, Robbie Robertson, Sacheen Littlefeather, John Trudell and Russell Means, Reel Injun traces the evolution of cinema’s depiction of Native people from the silent film era to today, only to find the future of Native cinema in the unlikeliest of places – Canada’s North.

“Packs an uplifting story arc, as it culminates with recent cinematic breakthroughs for native-authored films.”
Matthew Hays, Playback

“With much humour and insight, [Diamond] delivers excellent footage from 1920s movies onward, some fascinating oddities like the camp for wannabe Indians and good interviews.”
Andrew Dowler, Now Magazine

“Impeccably well researched and crafted, Reel Injun neatly walks the line between Michael Moore-style personality driven doc and the more traditional talking head.”
Todd Brown, Twitchfilm.net

OFFICIAL SELECTION Toronto International Film Festival

OPENING FILM ImagineNative Festival