Thunderheart

This 1992 movie is based on real events. Director Michael Apted also releaded Incident At Oglala, which can be a companion film to this movie, as they overlap so much. While this is a fictional tale, it is 100% inspired by true events. There are many parallels from the American Indian Movement, involvement of the Tribal Chairperson with the U.S. Government, Guardians of the Oglala Nation (GOONs), etc. This movie is pretty darn accurate. Accuracy aside, this is a tale of Ray Levoi (Kilmer) who is an FBI Agent with blood connections to the Oglala Sioux. The movie takes place on their reservation, after a murder. The movie explores the civil unrest, dynamic between the government/tribe, and dives into the connection of Ray Levoi to his Native roots. This exciting murder mystery takes an solid look at Rez life from an outsider, battling with being accepted by the community and trying to come to terms with his own identity. Come listen as I discuss the plot, positives, negatives, and final thoughts on this great film.