5 films that explore Native American life & culture

To celebrate National Native American Heritage Month this November, we’ve put together a list of five films and series that explore different stories about the Indigenous experience across North America. Spanning communities, traditions and generations, these stories highlight the history, achievements, challenges and cultural contributions of Native peoples, both past and present.

‘RUMBLE: The Indians Who Rocked the World’ (2017)

From the unmistakable guitar riffs of Link Wray to the legendary sounds of Jimi Hendrix and Robbie Robertson, Indigenous musicians have played a profound role in shaping American rock and roll — even if their contributions haven’t always received the recognition they deserve.

This Sundance Award-winning documentary explores the influence of Native American musicians on popular music, revealing the Indigenous roots behind some of rock’s most iconic sounds. Featuring interviews, archival footage and plenty of unforgettable music, RUMBLE: The Indians Who Rocked the World is an energetic and enlightening celebration of musical history.

‘Native America’ (2018)

Spanning centuries of history and generations of Indigenous knowledge, PBS’s Native America explores the remarkable civilizations, traditions and cultures of Native peoples across North and South America.

Combining modern science, archaeology and Indigenous oral histories, this visually stunning four-part documentary series uncovers ancient cities, sophisticated engineering and sacred traditions that continue to shape Native communities today. It’s a fascinating look at the achievements of Indigenous civilizations and the enduring connections between past and present.

‘Gather’ (2020)

Food is more than sustenance — it’s a connection to culture, community and identity. In Gather, Indigenous chefs, scientists and community leaders are working to reclaim traditional food systems and strengthen their communities through food sovereignty.

This inspiring documentary follows Native Americans as they reconnect with ancestral food traditions, restore relationships with the land and build a healthier future for the next generation. At once deeply personal and hopeful, Gather offers a compelling look at the resilience of Indigenous communities and the power of preserving cultural heritage.

‘Reservation Dogs’ (2021–2023)

Growing up isn’t easy, especially when you’re trying to figure out where you belong. Set in rural Oklahoma, Reservation Dogs follows four Indigenous teenagers who dream of leaving their hometown behind for a new life in California. But between their everyday adventures, complicated friendships and family ties, getting out proves easier said than done.

Created by Sterlin Harjo and Taika Waititi, this critically acclaimed comedy-drama blends sharp humor with heartfelt storytelling, exploring contemporary Indigenous life through the eyes of its young characters. With a predominantly Indigenous cast and creative team, Reservation Dogs offers a funny, authentic and refreshingly modern perspective on Native American identity, community and coming of age.

‘Indian Horse’ (2018)

Based on the award-winning 2012 novel of the same name, this dramatic adaptation follows the life of a young Canadian First Nations boy called Saul Indian Horse — one of the many Indigenous children forced into assimilation in 1950s Ontario. After he’s separated from his Ojibway family and his grandmother dies from exposure, he’s committed to a Catholic residential school run by abusive nuns and priests.

Struggling to survive in his new surroundings, Saul discovers an exceptional gift for ice hockey that will be his ticket out and change the course of his life forever — but never his identity.

At once heavy and heartbreaking as well as moving and beautiful, Indian Horse is a powerful story of resilience, identity and the lasting impact of Canada’s residential school system.

What’s your favorite Native American narrative? Let us know @DIRECTV!