Discover how ‘The Red Gaze’ podcast offers unique insights into movies and TV shows through a Native American lens, exploring cultural representation and challenging stereotypes
In a world where media often reflects a narrow viewpoint, a group of Native American voices is reshaping the narrative through their podcast, The Red Gaze. This insightful podcast offers listeners a fresh perspective on movies and television shows, highlighting how these stories resonate with Native American culture and experience.
Redefining the Red Gaze: A New Perspective on Media
The podcast’s title, The Red Gaze, is a deliberate nod to the “White Gaze”—a term that refers to media created predominantly by and for white audiences. By contrast, The Red Gaze challenges this norm, offering an authentic Native American viewpoint on popular media. The rotating cast of hosts, including Dalayne Longfeather, Marlee Minley, Cheryl Kary, and Nils Landin, brings a variety of voices and insights to each episode.
Exploring Representation: Discussions on ‘Resident Alien’ and Beyond
In a recent episode, the hosts gathered to discuss the TV show Resident Alien, focusing on how the show reflects Native American culture. “What if we start talking about things we’ve all watched together but through a specific lens?” Longfeather asked, setting the tone for the discussion. The goal is simple yet profound: to highlight how Native Americans connect with these stories, adding a layer of cultural interpretation that’s often missing from mainstream media.
More Than Just Fun: Analyzing Media Through a Cultural Lens
While the conversations are engaging and accessible, the podcast delves deep into cultural themes. “We don’t try to be overly scholarly,” Kary explains. “We just want to talk about movies in a fun way, like you would with your family.” This approach makes the podcast relatable while offering listeners valuable insights into the Native American experience.
Highlighting Indigenous Themes:
The podcast doesn’t shy away from analyzing both obvious and subtle representations of Native culture in media. Episodes have covered well-known films like Pocahontas, as well as less obvious choices such as the Avatar series. “If there’s a theme that resonates with both Native and non-Native cultures, we weave our Red Gaze into those discussions too,” Landin adds.
Challenging Stereotypes: Debunking Myths in Media
A recurring topic in The Red Gaze is the portrayal of Native Americans in media—often reduced to mystical figures or shapeshifters. “We’re always mystical beings or something, and we turn into animals a lot,” Minley notes, reflecting on the tropes that persist in films.
Celebrating Progress: A Look at Positive Portrayals
Despite these challenges, the hosts of The Red Gaze find hope in the increasing visibility of Native culture in mainstream media. One film they particularly commend is the 2022 release Prey, which features Native language and stars a Native actress. Another favorite is Resident Alien, appreciated for its setting in a Native community—a rare but welcome representation.
A Podcast for All: Inviting Listeners to Join the Conversation
While The Red Gaze centers around Native American perspectives, the hosts emphasize that their discussions are for everyone. “It’s for anyone who wants to hear Native American views on pop culture,” they affirm. The podcast invites listeners from all backgrounds to explore these unique insights, offering a richer, more inclusive understanding of the media we consume.