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Character from FX's 'Reservation Dogs' Season 3. Photo: Courtesy of FX Networks
From animated films to family-friendly series, more and more shows are bringing Indigenous characters, traditions and stories to the screen. These films don’t just entertain — they also help kids understand the diverse world around them and appreciate the richness of Indigenous peoples’ heritage.
I’ve rounded up the best movies and shows for kids and families that celebrate Indigenous people and their stories. The whole family will enjoy gathering together during Native American Heritage Month (and all year long!) to lose themselves in these captivating stories.
“Johnny Tsunami”
Teenager Johnny Kapahala has to move from Hawaii to Vermont when his family relocates. Struggling to fit in with the snowboarding culture, Johnny learns to blend his love for surfing with the skills needed to in snowboarding, while also navigating the challenges of family expectations and friendships. With the help of his grandfather, Johnny soon becomes the best snowboarder on the mountain. Rated TV-G, stream on Disney+
“Spirt Rangers”
Kodiak, Summer and Eddy Skycedar are Native American siblings who have a secret: They’re Spirit Rangers! They transform into powerful animal spirit rangers, each connected to the natural elements of their tribal heritage. Together, they protect the beauty of their national park home, using their unique animal abilities to solve problems. The show celebrates Native culture, emphasizes teamwork and environmental stewardship, and encourages young viewers to connect with nature. Rated TV-Y, stream on Netflix.
“Molly of Denali”
Molly Mabray, a 10-year-old Alaska Native girl, explores the world around her in the remote village of Qyah. Along with her friends and family, Molly uses her resourcefulness, curiosity and cultural traditions to solve problems and learn new things. The show highlights Native Alaskan culture, promotes positive values like teamwork and perseverance, and emphasizes the importance of environmental stewardship and community. Rated TV-Y, stream on Amazon Prime Video or PBS Kids
“Moana”
Moana, a young Polynesian girl, embarks on a journey across the ocean to save her island home. With the help of the demigod Maui, she seeks to restore the heart of Te Fiti, an ancient artifact that holds the power to heal her people’s land and bring prosperity. This movie is filled with wonderful music composed by Lin Manuel Miranda, and will fill the whole family with inspiration and laughter. And we’re in luck: “Moana 2” will be released in theaters on Nov. 27, 2024! Rated PG, stream on Disney+
“Yakari, A Spectacular Journey”
Yakari, a member of the Sioux tribe, embarks on a adventure to find the legendary horse, Little Thunder. With the help of his animal friends, including a loyal eagle named Grandfather, Yakari faces challenges and learns valuable lessons about bravery, friendship and the balance between humans and nature. Rated TV-Y, stream on Amazon Prime Video
“Lilo and Stitch”
This animated film follows the story of a young Hawaiian girl named Lilo who adopts an unusual pet, Stitch, a genetically engineered alien. Stitch escapes to Earth, and while initially causing chaos, begins to form a bond with Lilo, who is struggling with loneliness and the loss of her parents. Together, they face challenges from both the alien authorities pursuing Stitch and Lilo’s sister, Nani, who is trying to keep their family together. As Stitch learns the true meaning of ‘ohana’ (family), he starts to embrace love and connection. Rated PG, stream on Disney+
“Dora and the Lost City of Gold”
It’s live-action Dora the Explore! Follow your favorite adventurer as she goes on a quest to find the lost city of Parapata. After being sent to high school, Dora must team up with her cousin Diego, a new group of friends and her trusty monkey Boots to rescue her parents and uncover the city’s hidden treasures. Rated PG, stream on Amazon Prime Video
“Rabbit-Proof Fence”
This Australian drama is set in 1931 and is based on a true story. Molly, Daisy and Gracie (three Indigenous Australian girls) escape from a government institution where they are being held. The girls embark on an epic 1,500-mile journey across the Australian outback to return to their families, following the rabbit-proof fence that stretches across the country. This powerful film emphasizes themes of resilience, family and the struggle for identity and freedom. This movie includes themes of racism and forced assimilation, and has scenes showing the mistreatment of Indigenous children that may be difficult for younger viewers to process. Rated PG, stream on Amazon Prime Video
“Smoke Signals”
This movie came out in 1998, and it was the first movie to be written, directed and co-produced by Native Americans. Based on the short stories by local author Sherman Alexie, this film tells the story of Victor and Thomas as they go on a road trip from their home on the Coeur d’Alene Reservation in Idaho to collect the ashes of Victor’s estranged father, Arnold. As they travel, Thomas tells stories filled with humor and wisdom, helping Victor confront his anger and pain about his father’s absence. This powerful film has many moments of love and humor, but deals with many challenging topics including alcoholism, family violence and estranged parents. Rated PG-13, stream on Amazon Prime
“Whale Rider”
This movie tells the powerful story of Paikea, a Maori girl who challenges her tribe’s patriarchal traditions to become the leader and successor to her grandfather, despite being a girl. As Paikea connects with the spiritual world of whales and proves her bravery and leadership, she tries to reconcile her goals with her family’s expectations and tribal customs. Parents should know this movie has some intense moments, including scenes of family conflict. Rated PG-13, stream on Amazon Prime Video
“Rez Ball”
This inspiring sports drama follows the journey of a Native American high school basketball team from New Mexico. Following the death of their star player, the team must fight to work together on their quest for a state championship. The movie focuses on the team’s struggles both on and off the court, exploring the challenges of living on a reservation and deals with real-life issues, including suicide, teen drug and alcohol use. Rated PG-13, stream on Netflix
“Frybread Face and Me”
Benny is sent from his urban home in San Diego to his grandmother’s rural farm in Arizona for the summer, where he connects with his cousin Dawn (aka, “Frybread Face”). Though they are from different words, they spend the summer learning about their family’s past and themselves. This new movie explores themes of family, gender and being true to who you are. This movie was written and directed by Native American filmmaker Billy Luther of the Navajo, Hopi and Laguna Pueblo tribes. Rated TV-MA, stream on Netflix starting Nov. 24, 2024
“Reservation Dogs”
This award-winning show follows the life of four Native American teenagers growing up on a reservation in eastern Oklahoma. This brilliant show is laugh-out-loud funny, while also dealing with real issues including death, substance abuse and family conflict. If you are looking for a show to watch with your teens, this just might be your answer. Rated TV-MA, stream on Hulu
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