2024 Native American Heritage Month Watchlist: Television

Television has long been a powerful medium for sharing stories and showcasing diverse voices. During Native American Heritage Month, it's important to recognize the invaluable contributions of Native American creators to the world of TV. From actors and directors to writers and producers, Indigenous talent has brought compelling narratives to the small screen, blending cultural heritage with universal themes that resonate with viewers everywhere. This month, we celebrate Native storytellers whose work has shaped and enriched television, offering a unique lens on tradition, identity, and contemporary life. Their creativity continues to push boundaries and inspire audiences. Enjoy!

1. Basketball of Nothing (2019)
Netflix

Synopsis: This reality docuseries follows the Chinle High School boys' basketball team, located on the Navajo Nation, the largest Native American reservation in the US. Set in Chinle, Arizona, the series captures the team's determination to bring pride to their community through their love for basketball, while also dealing with the unique challenges of life on the reservation. With a backdrop of cultural heritage, economic hardship, and high expectations, the players' journey reveals the power of resilience, teamwork, and the strong connection between sport and identity.

Trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SFneLEv2lNk

Where to watch: Netflix

2. Native American (2018)
PBS

Synopsis: PBS’ documentary series explores the rich history, culture, and traditions of Indigenous peoples across North, Central, and South America. The four-part series blends science, archaeology, oral history, and traditional knowledge to highlight the complex societies that flourished long before European contact. It covers topics such as ancient cities, engineering marvels, sacred ceremonies, and enduring legacies of Native cultures, offering a comprehensive look at their achievements and how these civilizations continue to influence the modern world. Narrated by the late Robbie Robertson, the series also features contributions from Native scholars and elders to provide authentic perspectives.

Trailer: https://youtu.be/DJy9STLb9IU?si=C9-DAHxYwgrWcyYf

Where to watch: PBS

3. Trickster (2020)
CBC

Synopsis: This thriller serves as a powerful exploration of Native American identity, culture, and mythology, through Jared, a teenager from a First Nations community, whose path to adulthood is complicated by supernatural elements from Indigenous folklore—particularly the trickster figure, a key character in many traditions. As Jared confronts dark family secrets and his own identity, Trickster highlights the challenges Indigenous youth face today, including generational trauma, poverty, and cultural disconnection. The show offers a rare, authentic portrayal of modern Indigenous life while celebrating the resilience and rich storytelling traditions of its people.

Trailer: https://youtu.be/6IHLDWHxSLw?si=H76uNBddhhaGUZd7

Where to watch: AMC+

4. Little Bird (2023)
Crave | APTN lumi

Synopsis: This drama series follows the emotional journey of an Indigenous woman named Bezhig Little Bird, who was taken from her family during the Sixties Scoop—a period when thousands of Indigenous children in Canada were forcibly removed from their homes and adopted into non-Indigenous families. As an adult, Bezhig embarks on a quest to reconnect with her roots and uncover her lost identity. The series explores themes of family, identity, trauma, and resilience, shedding light on a painful chapter in Canadian history while celebrating the strength and spirit of Indigenous communities.

Trailer: https://youtu.be/7iUe9IHr-oY?si=-DDwkFNtvgHLFyw4

Where to watch: Prime Video

5. Dark Winds (2022)
AMC

Synopsis: Inspired by Tony Hillerman's Leaphorn & Chee novels, Dark Winds is a gripping crime drama set in the 1970s on the Navajo Nation. The series follows Lieutenant Joe Leaphorn and his deputy, Jim Chee, as they investigate a string of intricate murders and unsettling events. Amidst their investigations, they confront cultural tensions and supernatural elements deeply embedded in Navajo traditions. With its compelling blend of mystery, Indigenous culture, and rich storytelling, Dark Winds provides a refreshing take on the crime genre while showcasing the resilience and strength of the Navajo community.