Indigenous chieftain Sitting Bull once said, “Let us put our minds together and see what life we can make for our children.” Unfortunately, in “Reservation Dogs,” it is the children who have to take charge of their own lives and futures as they attempt to escape their bleak situation.
This series follows Elora, Bear, Willie Jack, and Cheese; they are four indigenous American teenagers growing up on reservation land in the small town of rural Oklahoma. They are on their resolute journey to earn some cash by carrying out odd and often illegal jobs; the severity of these jobs range from stripping copper wire from street lamps and pulling off heists in order to steal trucks that are later sold for scrap, to low profile, harmless ways of earning money like selling homemade meat pies outside the local clinic.
Life on the Reservation and the Search for Better Opportunities
Their main goal is to leave behind the land they grew up on and make a smooth transition to California; there they hope to lead a life filled with better opportunities and pursue their dreams. However, these also differ in severity; some involve working with rescue dogs, while others include becoming gourmet chefs at high end restaurants and MMA fighting. However, familial issues, a deep connection with their land, and a strong sense of giving back to their community impedes; as does rival gangs that force them to put their plans on the back-burner and second-guess their choices.
The issue of racial discrimination is depicted in a nuanced fashion, shown from both sides.”
The writing of the series by Taika Waititi and Sterlin Harjo is top-notch. The writers hit gold with the comedy and dialogue, but also manage a fine balance between comedy and drama. The juxtaposition of local folklore (such as the elusive Deer Woman and the spirit of a ditzy indigenous warrior who acts as Bear’s guidance counselor and moral compass) with the modern day narrative lends a touch of magical realism to proceedings. The series draws its characters with their own quirks and flaws; however, at the same time they are endearing, relatable, and humanised.
“Reservation Dogs” uses its opportunity to break down stereotypes. (Photo credit: FX Productions).
On Developing Strong Relationships and Detailing Racial Discrimination
The series places a strong emphasis on the relationships between parents and their offspring. This is exemplified in scenes such as when Bear, who is raised by a single mother, excitedly shops for gifts for his deadbeat rapper father who will probably break all his promises anyway. It’s also shown in an episode entirely dedicated to Willie Jack and her father; they have a poignant heart-to-heart as they embark on a hunting trip. It strengthens their bond and helps them come to terms with the tragic death of a loved one.
“Reservation Dogs” handles the issue of racial discrimination in a nuanced fashion, showing it from both sides. In one sequence, a group of white policemen who work and reside alongside the indigenous community mock Officer Big, the local tribal policeman for his ‘casino roots’ and treat him poorly because of superstitious beliefs. But in another, a white tourist passing through town acts indifferent to the struggle of the indigenous community. One scene that stood out with regards to ostracization and displacement of the indigenous community was when a white couple passes through the reservation. The husband scoffs at the ‘Land Back’ signs put up by protesting locals; he claims attempts by the indigenous community to take back their land is unnecessary. His wife differs in her mindset on this. She claims she is part Indian, and as a result lands on the side of the indigenous community.
The young actors in ‘Reservation Dogs’ are its heart and soul.”
Traditionalism vs. Modernity
The series addresses the conflict between modernity and traditionalism with the inclusion of subplots. One shows an elder in the village favouring the marijuana he buried in his backyard 15 years ago over the more legal variety obtained at the hip new dispensary in town. Another shows Willie Jack’s traditionalist father commenting on how his daughter could develop a face tumor if she continues to use chemical laced cosmetics as a substitute for warpaint during their hunting trip. “Reservation Dogs” additionally uses flashbacks to flesh out characters and enable viewers to delve more into each character’s backstory.
The series includes cheeky references to Tarantino’s classic “Reservoir Dogs.” (Photo credit: FX Productions).
There are also a few cheeky references to the movie from which the show derives its title (“Reservoir Dogs“) in the first few episodes, with the main quartet dressing up in black suits. And at one point, they are even gunned down (by paintballs) in the street by the rival gang. The latter acts as a great intro scene for the rival gang itself, and a few minor but pivotal characters such as gossiping twins who ride around town dropping homespun rap numbers. There are also references to popular bands such as Redbone, which was one of the few indigenous bands to leave their mark on the ’70s rock music scene. The soundtrack includes a popular hit from this band along with generous helpings of folk music from the indigenous community.
Solid Young Actors and Solid Writing Make the Series Work
The young actors in “Reservation Dogs” are its heart and soul. Devery Jacobs as Elora, D’Pharaoh Woon-A-Tai as Bear, and Lane Factor and Paulina Alexis as Cheese and Willie Jack respectively lead the pack and deliver sincere performances as the Reservation Dogs. The show also benefits from a majority of the cast hailing from the indigenous American community or having indigenous lineage; as such, this series is a great vehicle for representing an otherwise oppressed community. It also came as a surprise to see Bill Burr, one of my favourite comedians, featured on the show; he turns in a good performance as Garrett ‘Chukogee’ Bobson. He is Elora’s longtime family friend and former basketball coach who doubles as her driving instructor and shoulder for her to cry on when the going gets tough.
The writing of the series by Taika Waititi and Sterlin Harjo is top-notch.”
If you wish to learn more about life on the reservation, the trials, tribulations, hardships, and even the rich cultural heritage of indigenous Americans the community is currently striving to preserve, I highly recommend checking out “Reservation Dogs.”
“Reservation Dogs” is currently available to stream on Hulu with a subscription.
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