50 Facts About Reservation Dogs (TV Series)

Creation and Concept

Reservation Dogs is a groundbreaking series that has captivated audiences with its unique blend of humor and drama. Let's explore the fascinating details behind its creation and concept.

1. Reservation Dogs was conceived by Sterlin Harjo and Taika Waititi. They wanted to reflect the humorous stories they often shared.
2. The series follows four Indigenous teenagers in rural Oklahoma, focusing on their daily lives and aspirations.
3. The main cast includes D’Pharaoh Woon-A-Tai, Devery Jacobs, Paulina Alexis, and Lane Factor.
4. Reservation Dogs is the first American series with all Indigenous writers and directors, along with an almost entirely Indigenous cast and crew.

Production and Release

The production of Reservation Dogs faced unique challenges and decisions that contributed to its authenticity and success.

5. The first season was filmed entirely in Oklahoma, adding to the show's authenticity.
6. The series premiered on Hulu on August 9, 2021, coinciding with the International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples.
7. Reservation Dogs was renewed for a second season in 2021 and a third and final season in 2022.
8. The third season premiered on August 2, 2023, and concluded on September 27, 2023.

Critical Acclaim and Awards

Reservation Dogs has received widespread acclaim and numerous awards, highlighting its impact on the television industry.

9. The first season holds a 98% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes.
10. The third and final season holds a 100% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes.
11. The series has been nominated for two Peabody Awards, two Independent Spirit Awards, five Primetime Emmy Awards, one Golden Globe, six Television Critics Association Awards, and nine Critics' Choice Television Awards.
12. Critics have named Reservation Dogs one of the best series of 2021 and 2022.

Cultural Significance and Representation

The show marks a breakthrough in Indigenous representation on screen, providing a platform for Native American voices and stories.

13. Reservation Dogs is the first American series to feature all Indigenous writers and directors.
14. The series includes many Easter eggs for Native audiences, adding depth and humor.
15. Sterlin Harjo has been instrumental in opening doors for other Native filmmakers.
16. The show’s success has paved the way for more Indigenous-led projects.

Unique Storytelling and Cinematic Approach

The series combines humor with real issues, resonating with both Native and non-Native audiences.

17. Reservation Dogs is described as the more obviously cinematic of the two Indigenous-focused comedies, alongside "Rutherford Falls."
18. The show features a unique cinematography style that captures the beauty of rural Oklahoma.
19. The running time of episodes varies from 22 to 38 minutes.
20. The series deepens the community on the rez, focusing on traditions and people who think they know the traditions but don’t.

Music and Cultural Specificity

Music plays a significant role in the series, adding to its cultural specificity and appeal.

21. The show's music supervisor is friends with Tom Petty’s daughter and the Estate, facilitating the inclusion of "Free Fallin'."
22. The series includes many cultural references and Easter eggs for Native audiences.
23. The show’s music supervisor managed to secure the rights to Tom Petty’s song “Free Fallin’.”
24. Mato Wayuhi, the composer of the show’s score, played Young Bucky in "House Made of Bongs."

Production Challenges and Casting Choices

The COVID-19 pandemic presented several challenges for the production, leading to last-minute casting changes.

25. The production faced several challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
26. Zahn (Big) was originally cast to play Uncle Brownie but was recast as Big the day before filming the pilot due to a COVID case.
27. Tamara Podemski was supposed to play Rita but had a scheduling conflict, leading to her sister Sarah being cast instead.
28. Tafv Sampson was originally supposed to play an inmate but was moved to play Hokti’s spirit due to a COVID case.

Family Ties and Improvisation

The cast includes several family members, and improvisation plays a significant role in the show's natural feel.

29. Paulina Alexis, who plays Willie Jack, is also a competitive horse relay rider.
30. Nathan Alexis, who plays Young Brownie, is the brother of Paulina Alexis.
31. The Podemski sisters—Tamara, Sarah, and Jennifer—appear in the show, with Jennifer playing Willie Jack’s mom.
32. Paulina Alexis is known for improvising 70% of her lines.

Fun Facts and Behind-the-Scenes

Here are some fun and interesting behind-the-scenes facts about the show and its cast.

33. D’Pharaoh Woon-A-Tai got sunburns when filming the scene where they steal the truck.
34. The kids who played Koda Littlebird in Season 3, Episode 3 "Deer Lady" were Michael Podemski and his mother Jennifer.
35. The location for Rob and Cleo scenes is often the furthest out from any other location, making it the hardest to schedule but one of Harjo’s favorite sets.
36. Shelby Factor, Lane’s older sister, played Young Mabel.

Impact on TV and Legacy

Reservation Dogs has left a lasting legacy in the television industry, ensuring that Indigenous stories continue to be told.

37. In 2023, Hollywood Reporter critics named Reservation Dogs as the No. 6 pick on the best television shows of the 21st century.
38. The show’s success has paved the way for more Indigenous-led projects.
39. The series has marked a new era of Indigenous representation on TV.
40. The show provides a platform for Native American voices and stories.

Performers and Community Focus

The cast's chemistry and the show's focus on community have been praised by critics and audiences alike.

41. In the season finale, the cast was named Performers of the Week by TVLine.
42. The series deepens the community on the rez, making it less about the Dogs and more about traditions and people who think they know the traditions but don’t.
43. The show’s unique storytelling approach combines humor with real issues.
44. The characters in Reservation Dogs undergo significant development throughout the series.

Cross-Generational Collaboration

The show features collaboration between older and younger Indigenous actors, adding depth and authenticity.

45. The show features cross-generational collaboration, with older Indigenous actors like Wes Studi and Gary Farmer working alongside younger actors.
46. Sterlin Harjo looked to established filmmakers he had confidence in to direct the show.
47. The show maintains a low-key, indie film vibe, which is part of its charm.
48. The series explores various themes, including identity, community, and the struggle to leave one's reservation.

Final Thoughts

Reservation Dogs has made significant strides in Indigenous representation on screen, leaving a lasting impact on the television industry.

49. The show’s impact will be felt for years to come.
50. Reservation Dogs has paved the way for more Indigenous-led projects, ensuring that there will be no end to the stories that Native Americans have to tell.

The Legacy of Reservation Dogs

Reservation Dogs has left a lasting mark on television. Created by Sterlin Harjo and Taika Waititi, the show’s blend of humor and real-life issues has resonated with audiences. Featuring an all-Indigenous cast and crew, it’s a milestone in Indigenous representation. Filmed in Oklahoma, the series captures the essence of rural life while tackling themes like identity and community. With critical acclaim and numerous awards, it’s clear the show has set a new standard. From its unique storytelling to its cultural specificity, Reservation Dogs has paved the way for more Indigenous-led projects. Its impact will be felt for years, ensuring that Native American stories continue to be told. The series not only entertains but also educates, making it a significant piece of modern television.