DreamKeeper (2003) User Reviews (40)

Beautiful Fantasy for the Whole Family

[claudio_carvalho · 8/10 · 30 September 2005]

In South Dakota, in an Indian reservation, an old storyteller Indian (August Schellenberger) asks his grandson Shane (Eddie Spears), who is in trouble owing money to some bad guys, to take his old pony and him to Albuquerque to the great powwow, an Indian meeting. While traveling, Grandpa tells mysterious Indian tales of love, friendship and magic and brings his grandson back to the Indian traditions and culture.

What a great surprise was watching "Dreamkeeper"! Released on VHS in Brazil, with 167 minutes running time, it is composed by several wonderful mystical Indian tales, with gods, spirits, enchanted horse, evil serpent in a lake, all of them connected through the narrative of the Grandpa to his grandson and with the support of excellent cast and special effects. This feel-good film is a must-see entertainment for the whole family. My vote is eight.

Title (Brazil): "Guardião dos Sonhos" ("Dreamkeeeper")

Note: On 03 May 2014, I saw this movie again on DVD.

Note: On 02 Oct 2021, I saw this movie again.

Great collection of traditional American mythologies

[ladybug2535 · 7/10 · 28 May 2018]

I enjoyed the main thread which was used to connect the myths of various American tribes, and how the stories were shared. And of course I was thrilled to see Native Americans playing each of the appropriate roles--as well as how they briefly touched on the realities of tribal life (though this aspect was quite rightly very brief, as this was not the focus of the film). I also greatly appreciated the care taken in presenting the authentic and unique garb for each of the various tribes, as well as in how their villages were depicted: Long Houses in the Pacific Northwest, mobile TeePees for the Plains, etc. It was a pleasure to see such a nice range of tribes and their myths. It was also a breath of fresh air, in that it stayed away from the usual stereotypes and tribal tropes (for the most part). I for one, would really enjoy this expanded into a whole series.

I had to mark my rating lower than I wanted to, due to poor production values and areas that didn't quite hand together as they should have given the clever way the stories were tied together--but I would rate it as a solid 7.5 rather than just a 7 (yet it wasn't quite an 8 either). I genuinely had no other quibbles.

Great collection of native american folktales.

[JTMokko · 8/10 · 1 December 2019]

Interesting collection of folktales and native american lore. Good actors and nice flow. Half of it is modern day story and half flashback of mystical ancient times when Gods and Monsters were reality. I love the native american (lakota) words like Pow wow, wakan tanka, Ya atahe, hehaka.

SO glad to see a movie true to the people it depicts!!!

[gonaBpaulaC · 10/10 · 3 September 2005]

As a Native American I hate movies that play out the old "cowboys and Indians" theme, which severely limited the "indian" movies I would watch. I am SO GLAD to FINALLY see a movie that shows Native Americans as we are in real life rather than the traditional depiction as scalp-seeking-savages, tells our stories, and shows how life on the reservation truly is today. This movie (to me,) breaks down a lot of the negative stereotypes made on our people, which are generally fueled by movies. I think it is very important to have movies like this to help dissolve a lot of racial stereotypes, and share our legends with the newer generation. I was amazed when I saw the depictions of stories I had actually heard as a child, growing up in Tahlequah Oklahoma, the Cherokee Nation Capitol. I wish all movies could be like this... as a matter of fact, I think i am going to watch it again right now!!!

wonderful and engaging

[mariposarosa2 · 1 September 2004]

This film is, by far, one of the most thoughtful, authentic and

entertaining films related to the Native American experience and

storytelling that I have ever seen. Few people know that there are

over 500 different Native tribes in North America alone. This film is

a great, educational experience. It combines stories from ten

different tribes related to love, courage and redemption.

The acting is strong and the storyline works well as it drifts

between the contemporary story of a young teen driving his

grandfather across country to the First Nations pow wow, and the

timeless stories. Please watch this film.

Try it. You will be surprised.

[b9AcE · 10/10 · 13 July 2004]

I always regarded Hallmark as "the TV channel that I can skip over". That is until I saw this movie. I was lucky enough to flip past it just at the begining while I was waiting for my friend to get ready for a party we were supposed to go to. We didn't go. We watched this instead.

After having seen as many movies as I (who hardly does anything else) this was a very welcome break from the monotony of the standard portrayal of the native americans. I am not a native american (or even american, I'm european) but still it was very nice to get to see "the other side of the story". Next to the story I need to applaud the many outstanding performances by the actors and actresses, of which regretably none so far is well known. Also to be noted is some exceptional cinematography combined with great special effects (for a TV movie).

Great story, which has something to say. Great acting/directing. Great cinematic craftsmanship. What else could be asked from a movie?

Had it been produced by a movie theater production company it would have become a huge hit, but unfortunately it will now probably be lost among the TV movie onslaught.

If you have a chance to see this: take it.

If you search for a vision, this is the one you need.

[mijann1972 · 9/10 · 17 October 2004]

Yesterday i bought the movie the Dreamkeeper because the little scenes i saw on TV during a commercial interested me a lot. I must say that this story was for sure not a disappointment because it is really a beautiful story which is a mix of fantasy, legends and old stories. In this story a boy from the Lakota Sioux tribe has problems because he has a quilt with an Indian gang. His grandfather wants to visit the powwow, which is a meeting between all kinds of tribes from the USA, in which the dances and traditions will be shared. The grandfather wants that his grandson takes him to the powwow and as reward he will receive a car from his grandfather. In the beginning he don't want that but when he realizes that he also has 1 day to pay the money back to the gang than it maybe could be a good alternative to escape. During the trip his grandfather starts to tell him stories which form the base of the movie. During the stories you enter a time of legends and fantasies but with every story the grandfather is teaching the grandson a lesson in life. The maker of this movie also made Arabian nights and you can see it a little back in this movie because the setup is the same because in Arabian nights a woman tells a movie to the sultan she wants to marry. This story really impressed me and i enjoyed it a lot, also because i am very interested in Indian tribes. This movie deserves a 9 out of 10 because i kept my attention for the full 3 hours it took, in one word beautiful and well done.

One of the best I've seen in a long time

[subterra1 · 10/10 · 1 January 2004]

I was frankly shocked to see something this good on commercial TV. A great story, great acting, great cinematography, and so true in every detail. How it ever got by the ABC execs I'll never know, since it's just miles ahead of the usual garbage they present. Of course it tanked in the ratings, but I don't think it was promoted too well. The one gripe I had was the constant and lengthy commercial breaks that thoroughly broke up the flow (well, I guess that's how they paid for it...). How about PBS picking up the actors, crew, consultants and writers for a series? Yoohoo, Ken Burns where are you??

Finally a movie about Native-Americans by Native-Americans

[actmohr · 10/10 · 29 December 2003]

Finally a movie about Native-Americans by Native-Americans. Okay, so some of them are Canadian, so perhaps we should add "Aboriginal." Many of the actors have appeared in other U.S. as well as Canadian films of and about Aboriginal peoples but I'm sure I have never seen a film so dominated by them. And one of them has the courage to say it is not the current generations of "white eyes" who stole their lands, but our forefathers, Gen. Custer, President Grant, John Wayne, etc. This should be required showing in every U.S. and Canadian history class but of course the fundies would most certainly object because of the mysticism.

absolutely amazing

[shadowweaver-1 · 26 July 2004]

This movie was the most phenomenal movie I have ever watched in my life .It was a movie I could watch over and over again,It really touched my heart and soul and also brought me closer to my heritage I too am native American and proud of it .The story and talented actors will remain in my heart forever.This movie is not just a one person movie or for one to relate to.Everything about this movie was absolutely breathtaking from the scenery,plots, clothing and again the actors and the story line .It also taught me a few lessons about my family and the things they have taught me over the years .also with now owning the movie I now own the soundtrack and listen to that just as much.It does my heart good to see how there are many others that feel about the movie just as I do .

real and outstanding

[sabrinazep · 10/10 · 12 April 2005]

DreamKeeper is one of the movies that will accompany you forever. It contains today and yesterday and helps the understanding of the true history of the American Indian. The situation of many Indians today living in reservations and being in a cycle of vandalism, alcohol and drug problems does not go unmentioned. But there is hope for many because the roots of them and the old stories are still there. So you melt into wonderful pictures and stories given from the grandfather to his grandson being on their way to a meeting of all nations. The intertwining of the genres(road movie, drama, tales) is very well made and John Fusco did another great job with the creation of the script. The actors have been well chosen and you feel that they are not just acting in a movie they are truly concerned and giving you their story. Behind all is a message not only for the Indians to again respect more their ancestry and live it but to the 'white people' as well. The commitment of all the people who made this movie possible is very much appreciated.

A cerebral and visual feast of Native American myths !

[sgeering · 10/10 · 29 December 2003]

Deeply moving . The power of myth brought to life . Creative use of modern film editing to bring the supernatural to realistic visions.The importance of passing on the ancient Native American stories from one generation to the next.

beautiful

[linssen1964 · 10/10 · 17 February 2005]

every time i see the movie..tears come into my eyes..... goosebumps allover.... I really respect the native, i wish i was one of them. respect human and animals....

I must write 10 line at least, but i think my comment is enough right now! ! ! ! ! !;) :) make more of these movies! show ignorant people how to live right show them to have respect for the older show them to have respect for all the animals, big and small show them to have respect for nature!!!!!!!!!!!! when do we finally realize , the world is dying??!! help others to survive this terrible world..it can be so beautiful!

Well done, superb scenery and special effects, good cast!

[jscholtes · 10/10 · 30 December 2003]

On the whole it was a very well done production. I can't wait for it to be available on DVD so I can enjoy it without all the commercials.

I was familiar with some of the legends but not all of them. It was good to hear them and see them come "to life". I was overjoyed to see so many Native Americans and Native Canadians (isn't Canada part of North America?) portray the cast in an honest and proud way.

watch it :-)

[journeyofages · 10/10 · 15 February 2006]

I have to comment on Galloway Grumblefield's reply because I'm another white person (20-something male) who share's his/her sentiments and then some. The movie speaks for itself and I'd definitely recommend the miniseries "Into the West" as well which stars some of the same characters from Dreamkeeper. There are no words to describe the emotion that fills within me when thinking about the lives of American Indians. To me they should be regarded as the "super-race" for the sheer fact that they, along with the Buffalo, after being not only marginalized, tokenized, robbed, and yes, decimated almost to literal extinction (remember, even the kids and babies were shot by the U.S. army), they, into the new millennium are still here and their numbers have increased (as of the year 2000 there are about 2 and 1/2 million Native Americans alive today). Of course they're the poorest demographic in the country, worse than that of other minorities, comparatively speaking, and still are facing repression and other forms of harassment and forced relocation by the U.S. government (now empire). The good note is that films such as these shed light on the true nature of the Indigenous American as well as expose the inhumane and inhuman treatment (which exists TO THIS DAY) that they have endured on soil that belonged and by human rights still belongs to them. A progressive people's movement, which already exists, although pathetically fragmented since 9/11, needs to come together and at the center of it needs to be the will of the Native American, even spearheaded and centered around them. Justice needs to finally take its course. There are hundreds of activist websites dedicated to progressing the Indian cause, all a google search away.

Authenticity

[wakalapi · 29 December 2003]

They did a great job with this movie. Alot of care was put in to ensure authenticity and accuracy, from identifying each tribe with their sacred stories and proper language use to ensuring costumes were correct for tribes and time periods, even down to including the "wannabe" character who tags along through part of the plot. The intertwined theme related to gang activity and violence is also very true. Pine Ridge is one of the toughest places in America to grow up in. With a spiritual attachment to ancestral lands and close family ties, very few people really want to strike out on there own; and with no industry near the reservation, these two facts combine to an 80% unemployment rate. Alcoholism, drug abuse and gang violence make rez life as dangerous as the toughest big city neighborhoods of New York and LA.

This film took several months to produce and employed thousands of Native Americans, from actors and actresses to extras, film crew members and laborers.

The special effects accurately portray imagery of spirit characters without getting engrained in fantasia and the typical new-agey romanticized look-and-feel that some recent Indian movies have (say "Dances with Wolves").

Great movie

[melchi-2 · 10/10 · 7 January 2006]

Excellent movie. I loved it so much I searched until I was able to find a place to pre-order it, & I'm glad I did. I have watched it many times, & everyone I've shown it to has loved it also. It's an incredible story portraying Native American legends, and also shows the struggle that modern day Native American teens go through when trying to find their identity. Anyone with an interest in history or Native American culture should watch this movie!! I do agree with the previous comment that when it aired it was annoying that it was constantly interrupted with commercials. Much better to have the DVD & watch it commercial-free!

Fantastic epic storytelling at it's best

[jcouncil · 10/10 · 31 January 2006]

Totally gripping; the story weaves between ancient myths and legends and present day reality.

The characters are engaging, the acting is great, and the special effects are phenomenal.

I was reminded what special effects are really for - used right, they really bring a story to life, enhance it, engage your imagination and convey more than could be done any other way.

This film stayed with me for days. Full of depth, wisdom, action and adventure. a must see.

(I also recommend the "making of" that accompanies the movie).

Excellent one with an all star cast!

[LaxFan94 · 10/10 · 20 December 2009]

I really liked this one since there was an all star cast. I loved how there were different legends told from all over Turtle Island. Most of the stories took place in the Plains however the one from the West Coast as well as the one Haudenasaunee story were real cool! Of course, I love Native women and the ones in this one were sexy! Kimberly Guererro is hot as well as Alex Rice. Those were just 2 examples of the gorgeous women.

But I'm surprised that this was only a made-for-TV film and not one to go into the mainstream theatres. Were they worried that it wouldn't make it well enough on the big screen or something? Regardless of how much it would make in the box office, I think it should have gone there anyway! It's stupid just to worry about how much money something is going to make without at least giving it a chance first.

But... ANYWAYS... excellent one nonetheless. That's why I gave it a perfect 10.

Dreamkeeper is extremely different and powervul.

[sidartha-2 · 10/10 · 20 October 2007]

Dreamkeeper shocked me with wonder when I saw it on regular ABC TV a few years ago... many moons ago... how time has flown. I caught only a part of it. I just finally requested it at local video / DVD shop and they have it. I viewed it entirely tonight on DVD. I am so thrilled with Dreamkeeper that I shared in with a project that I am member of --- The Mankind Project New Mexico. I love Native American culture and philosophy. DREAMKEEPER has really done the job of giving the Native American USA message. Dreamkeeper is extremely different and powerful. I may buy copies to give as gifts. How wonderful that Red brothers and sisters have shared this vision with us. How great that an international group of artists have given me this wonderful gift of joy and power.

I love that Native Americans have commented on the film and were depicted in such a wonderful manner.

A young man and his grandfather journey into the past, to prepare for the future.

[Biznz · 9/10 · 15 May 2004]

The story was very well written and entertaining. The tales from many nations were told, and were the focus of the movie. A perfect family movie that keeps everyone entertained. The messages behind the stories have deep social significance and seem chosen with care. The next best thing to hearing these stories yourself from the dreamkeeper would be to see this movie. The first 10 minutes of the movie seems awkward, but the story gets better. The acting varies from competent to fantastic, but some just seem out of place and stiff. The cinematography is very good and there's many breathtaking aerial sweeps. There were two camera passes right through vehicles from headlight to tailpipe that seemed quite out of place. The Coyote and spider characters enthralled the kids.

How do I get a copy?

[sjygfp · 1 January 2004]

How can I get a DVD or VHS copy of this movie? I want to save this movie and watch it again. There are some great lessons to be learned. I like that fact that these legends are being saved. Like the line from the L.A. Times TV Times Commentary on Dreamkeeper says, "A lot of our elders are passing, and when they pass, people like myself and like my little sister will need to keep the stories alive. I am hoping that the native youth will embrace this, so people will always know we are still here."

definitely worth your time

[ranthony49855 · 10/10 · 11 April 2006]

I loved this movie. It tells about a boy-turning into a man and a journey to a powwow with his grandpa who is getting ready to die. Along the way, the grandpa, who is a story keeper, uses the stories of a few different tribes to teach his grandson and encourage him to choose the right path in life. The stories come to life in this movie... I almost believed them myself. This also teaches some really good lessons, besides the ones in the stories. This movie teaches about racism, whites vs. indians, indians vs. indians, and that we should look at the heart. It also shows some current problems today with the native American culture. About alcoholism, the "angry" Indian, dysfunctional families, gangs, the importance of our ancestors, and our importance to them. I would recommend this movie to anyone who is interested in learning more about the native American culture and about oral history.

Loved it! Fantastic cinematography.

[TheRealBambi · 10/10 · 10 April 2023]

There's almost always a little stiffness with films about our indigenous neighbors ... especially with older films. This 20 year old gem has a little bit of that, but it's just so darned good ... I let it go.

I really appreciated Fusco's attention to and focus on the stories. It's all about the stories with native folks ... always.

The cast is top notch. Everybody knocked their role out of the park. Gary Farmer is always a favorite for me. Eddie Spears is just amazing. It was especially great to see the younger Michael Greyeyes, Tantoo Cardinal & MIsty Upham .... along with the now departed John Trudell & Floyd Red Crow Westerman

The film isn't afraid to go dark in some scenes, but never morphs into the gratuitous. The characters are genuine ... there are no caricatures; which is sooo refreshing after decades of the violent or stoic noble indian baloney.

The action scenes are ... just wow ... really well crafted. The cinematographer honors nature with beautiful landscape shots. It's simply a beautiful film.

Hidden gem (Hallmark TV!)

[srb2001 · 10/10 · 29 December 2003]

This production is outstanding. The cgi is feature-film quality and totally imaginative.

The off-hand humor mixed with profound myth and storytelling is an astounding narrative device -- totally compelling!

Excellent acting by the cast to boot.

An overall Emmy-deserving piece of art.

Must see -- WOW !!!