Smoke Signals

Smoke Signals addresses many different Native American stereotypes. They not only addressed the issue of alcoholism on the reservations, but also the very appearance of Native Americans. This part was very clearly and obviously demonstrated when Victor told Thomas that he was not being a “real” Indian. He tells him to undo his braids and let his hair down, because their hair is what sets them apart from the white people. He also tells him he needs to “loose the suit” in an attempt to dress more casual. Victor also tells Thomas that he needs to look more stoic. The idea of looking stoic includes him not smiling as much, which we all would agree was very difficult for Thomas, and looking either deep in thought or angry. Victor tried to prove to Thomas that having such a stoic look would guarantee that the white people would not walk all over them, but failed to prove his point when his “look” could not get them their seats back on the bus.

Not only does this film do a great job of presenting Native American stereotypes, but so did The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian. Both of these stories had many similarities. From the main characters both being completely nerdy with aggressive friends, to the point of the stories being similar. Both of the characters go through the entire story on a mission to find themselves. While Junior is trying to make more of his life than the rest of his family has by breaking stereotypes and going to a white school, Victor is trying to find closure in his father’s disappearance and death and find what it means to him to be a “real” Indian. While Junior is on his mission, he is drawing cartoons; a lot of his cartoons though have a bit of drama to them, stretching the truth a little. Which is very similar to Thomas’ stories. They are partially true, but the truth has obviously been stretched.