A Man Called Horse stars Richard Harris as Lord John Morgan, an English peer cast somewhat adrift in the American West. Captured by Sioux Indians, Lord Morgan is at first targeted for quick extinction, but the tribesmen sense that he is worthy of survival. The Englishman passes many of the necessary tests that will permit him to become a member of the tribe, the most grueling of which (and the one used most extensively in the film's advertising) is the Sun Vow Initiation. That's where his lordship is hung from the roof of a huge teepee with hooks through his pectoral muscles. Much of the dialogue is spoken in the Sioux language, though the film's much-vaunted "historical accuracy" is not altogether consistent, as witness the casting of British stage luminary Judith Anderson as Sioux woman Buffalo Cow Head. A Man Called Horse spawned warrant two sequels. Originally rated "GP" in 1970, it has since been re-rated R by the MPAA. ~ Hal Erickson, Rovi
i LOVED THIS MOVIE. It has the traditional Sundance (not ritual like you white people call it.) I loved the regailia and the Sioux people. I really Didn't care for the biginning with the white people though. that's just me. I would recommend this movie to watch if u love native culture.
Worth a look for "Dances with Wolves" fans. Chock full 'o noble intentions, but it's a bit dated ,and hokey, at times. Harris sports this silky smooth rug in the midst of all of this ruggedness, and the half-breed French guy who kinda looks like Robin Williams will grate on your nerves. The look is inspired by those classic paintings of George Catlin, and others.
This movie was made to try and capitalize on the Native explosion of th elate 60's and early 70's. The movie is definitely dated, and is not necessarily culturally accurate. For example, the movie shows the Lakota chief wearing a magpie-feathered Cheyenne Dog Soldier headdress during John's "vow of the sun" ceremony. Since the making of this movie, Hollywood has been more careful about making culturally and period correct regalia for Native Americans.
Not your typical shoot'm up western. It tries to be realistic and true to native American culture but sometimes I got baffled as to what was going on. Check it out for yourself.
i LOVED THIS MOVIE. It has the traditional Sundance (not ritual like you white people call it.) I loved the regailia and the Sioux people. I really Didn't care for the biginning with the white people though. that's just me. I would recommend this movie to watch if u love native culture.