Review of Dances with Wolves (1990) by Stuart K — 30 Dec 2009

Kevin Costner's multi Oscar winning western epic was a prime example of a little film that could, even though Costner had put everything on the line to bring Michael Blake's acclaimed book to the big screen, even directing it, (which he had no experience in doing, at the time), and he funded it himself.

But, he did it, and in the process, he brought the plight of many displaced Indians to the attentions of it's viewing audience. Set during the American Civil War, it follows Lieutenant John J. Dunbar (Kevin Costner), whose unorthodox actions during a battle between the Union and the Conderates helps the Union win.

He is dispatched to Fort Sedgwick in South Dakota, but the army post there is deserted. After time, he becomes involved with the nearby Sioux Indians. At first, he doesn't like them and they don't like him, but a friendship soon bonds between Dunbar and the Sioux, and he becomes one of them.

It's a very moving and powerful story, beautifully shot by Australian cinematographer Dean Semler and with a sweeping score by the great John Barry, Costner's gamble was a brave one, and it gives a humanistic look at the American Indians, and you believe they may not have been the savages that American troops made them out to be.

Their way of life is unique and awe-inspiring. This one did deserve to win over Goodfellas at the Oscars, sorry Marty... :P.