Dancing With Wolves (#1)

Currently our class is studying 'Dances with Wolves'. Which narrates the story of Lt. John Dunbar as he fights in the civil war - and eventually after requesting permission to be transferred to an outpost he encounters the tribe known as the Sioux. In the opening scene at Saint Davids Field in 1865 John Dunbar has his leg amputated. This scene might be used to show the viewer how unsanitary medical procedures were during that time period. So far throughout the film, the cinematography continues to show reflection and hints of symbolism in many different aspects. For example - when one of the Sioux are running their hands through the field of grass, it could be determined to be seen as freedom, or openness. Or when John was bathing naked - without his weapons, or anything to cover or protect him, could symbolize being vulnerable and open. Another scene views the half shadow on John's face - to symbolize new hope matched with past despair. The film further delves into the social interactions that take place between the tribe and John; the confusion of language, new delicacies, and behavior. John and the natives first have issues communicating and coming to an understanding. In custom of John observing the natives the cinematography shows how some people might be ignorant to think that all the people are, are violent, and inhumane - shown by another custom known as scalping.  The scenery in the film uses not only the bloody field of Saint Davids - allowing the viewer a glimpse of the bloodshed, but shows another visual on a turf somewhat yet separated from the civil war. The plains to show the great expanse of a wild landscape that is present through most of John's and the native's group travel through. It envelopes the idea of a freedom on the other side of the country while the war wages on.