Still ‘Dances’ after 20 years

Kevin Costner’s directorial debut “Dances with Wolves” has recently been re-released on DVD. After having subsequently directed some rather poor movies, it’s amazing that his first still stands so well.

Costner plays Lt. John Dunbar, a Union officer in the Civil War. After an attempted suicide that somehow allows Union forces to carry the day, Dunbar is given his choice of assignment. He chooses to go out west and live in an abandoned fort by himself. Eventually, he befriends nearby Sioux Indians and becomes part of their tribe.

Parts of the film are a bit problematic. For instance, Dunbar’s romance with a white woman living with the tribe is too convenient and suggests he hasn’t completely assimilated. One character puts it well: “It makes sense. They are both white.”

The film’s greatest strength lies in its breathtaking visuals. Costner makes the prairie look not like a barren wasteland, but rather a vibrant, golden sea. Even the battle scenes are beautiful, more like a ballet than a battle.

Though always beautiful, the extended version is long at four hours. Although it still works well, the inclusion of the three-hour theatrical version would have been a smart move.
Perhaps Costner will try to make another great film. Until then, “Dances with Wolves”  isn’t going anywhere.