IMDb/1997 MGM
A cultural pioneer and trailblazer for Indigenous actors, who left a lasting mark on Hollywood. Graham Greene, 73, the Canadian actor, passed away on September 1 in a Toronto hospital after a long battle with illness.
The veteran actor made his debut in 1979 with the Canadian drama series, The Great Detective, and in the 1983 film Running Brave. The actor is best known for his 1990 Oscar-nominated film Dances with Wolves. Greene, as “Kicking Bird,” gained massive popularity and appreciation from critics. The pathbreaking film was nominated for 12 Oscars and won 7, including Best Director for Kevin Costner and Best Picture.
Greene opened doors for several Canadian actors and was beloved in Canada. He even earned a star in Canada’s Walk of Fame. After Dances with Wolves, Greene went on to give massive hits, like Maverick, Die Hard with a Vengeance, The Green Mile, The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn – Part 2, and Molly’s Game.
Greene’s Kicking Bird, A Cultural Phenomenon
There is something enigmatic about his performance in Dances with Wolves. Kicking Bird is one of the most talked-about characters among cinephiles, even now. Let’s break down how Graham Greene’s performance helped Dances with Wolves win Best Picture.
1. Authenticity In Representation
Hollywood was infamous for portraying Native Americans in a one-dimensional and stereotypical way until Dances with Wolves hit the screens. Greene’s “Kicking Bird” was dignified, layered, and deeply human. His character brought humor, intelligence, and warmth, which was new to the audience. The character made critics and audiences view Native Americans in a new light. The authentic portrayal is one of the reasons the Academy praised the film.
2. Emotional Core Of The Story
The American epic Western film based on the Civil War and its aftermath doesn’t end in action; it’s emotional. Kicking Bird acts as a spiritual guide, bridging the cultural gap between Lt. Dunbar and the Lakota Sioux tribe. What makes the film believable is Greene’s incredible performance. He had the credibility and heart of a character that did justice to the themes of respect and cultural exchange.
3. Award Recognition & Momentum
Awards are among the highest forms of recognition for both films and actors. However, such recognition is especially meaningful when it highlights the contributions of Indigenous communities. Graham Greene’s nomination for the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor was a historic moment, as only a few from these communities had received such recognition. The nomination solidified the film’s legacy and paved the way for others who followed him.
4. Critical Acclaim
We can’t get enough with Greene’s powerful performance, be it the natural charisma or the subtle acting; he was phenomenal. After the film’s release, reviews and critics singled out Greene’s performance as the highlight. Critics and audiences even felt that it was Greene who elevated the film from just another Western to something groundbreaking. It did not come as a surprise that the film received 7 Oscars.