How Hollywood has portrayed Native Americans, and what those portrayals have gotten wrong, is the subject of Reel Injun, a documentary by Cree filmmaker Neil Diamond. The film makes its Seattle premiere with a free screening at SIFF Film Center for Native American Heritage Month.

Diamond draws on clips from hundreds of movies, tracing how Native characters have appeared on screen over the past century. He also travels to the Black Hills and Monument Valley, talking with Native actors, filmmakers and activists about the influence of Hollywood portrayals on how Indigenous people are viewed. The film looks at the work of Native filmmakers who have pushed back against those familiar Hollywood images, including the filmmakers behind Smoke Signals and The Fast Runner.

The screening is presented by Grand Illusion Cinema, which recently announced plans to take over the Varsity Theatre in the University District after a period without a permanent home.

The event is also co-presented with Xa?Xa? Indigenous Birth Justice, an organization supporting Indigenous mothers and families through culturally affirming birth care. Executive Director Faith Zacherle will speak briefly about the organization’s work before the screening. Donations are encouraged and can be made online or at the event.

RSVPs are currently open and admission is free.