It’s time for cowboys ‘n’ Indians. The documentary “Reel Injun,” directed by Neil Diamond — an aboriginal filmmaker, not the singer — examines in entertaining detail the way Hollywood has treated North American natives going as far back as the days of silent flicks.
The film revolves around a cross-continental car trip taken by Diamond, with stops at Monument Valley in Utah, where John Ford set many of his iconic Westerns, and the site of Custer’s Last Stand.
Talking heads include Clint Eastwood, Jim Jarmusch and Sacheen Littlefeather, the Native American activist who caused an uproar when she stood in for Marlon Brando at the 1973 Oscar ceremonies.
“Reel Injun” will most likely give you a new perspective the next time you watch John Wayne battle Native Americans.