First Trailer for Taika Waititi’s New Comedy ‘Reservation Dogs’
Four Indigenous teenagers in rural Oklahoma try to get to the exotic and faraway land of California in this new comedy.
Taika Waititi turns his attention back to the small screen with this heart-filled story of four teens trying to live out the dream of a friend they lost any way they can. The show was filmed on location in Okmulgee, Oklahoma and every writer, director, and series regular on the show is Indigenous. The series was co-created by Sterlin Harjo (Mekko, Barking Water). It stars D’Pharaoh Woon-A-Tai, Devery Jacobs, Paulina Alexis, Lane Factor, Zahn McClarnon, Elva Guerra, and Wes Studi.
I’m a big Zahn McClarnon fan; getting to see him in a comedy role is going to be a treat. Add in the obvious care that’s been put into crafting this series and the humor, and it’s has a place on my watch list. We need more, real Indigenous representation in media. I want this to be good and to succeed so we get more.
The official synopsis…
Bear Smallhill is destined to be a warrior, and a leader. The only problem is he’s not a good fighter, and the gang doesn’t really consider him the leader. But with the guidance of a questionable spirit guide, he just might get there. Elora Danan may be the true leader of the group. But she’s so focused on getting to California, and so oblivious to her own power, that she often can’t see the beauty and goodness in herself and all around her. Street-smart tough girl Willie Jack is the beating heart of the group. She’s always looking out for her crew. Meanwhile, Cheese is the gentle, quiet ride-or-die who is so willing to go along with the group that he never stops to consider what his own dreams might be.
One year ago, Daniel, the fifth member of the Reservation Dogs, died. Struggling to make sense of the loss, the remaining four blame their boring, small town and its ability to crush the spirit. They decide to honor Daniel by adopting his dream of getting to California as their own. To succeed, they will have to save enough money, outmaneuver the methheads at the junkyard on the edge of town, constantly dodge conspiracy-obsessed Lighthorseman Bigand survive a turf war against a much tougher rival gang, led by the enigmatic Jackie.
Reservation Dogs starts streaming on August 9th on Hulu.
