Annual Native American Film Series Starts Sept 20 at The Briscoe

Annual Native American Film Series at the Briscoe Illuminates Contemporary Indigenous Experiences & Storytelling

The Briscoe Western Art Museum announces the return of its annual Native American Film Series, featuring three powerful documentaries and films that showcase contemporary Indigenous experiences. Celebrating Indigenous storytelling through the lens of contemporary cinema, the series spotlights films created by Native American filmmakers and artists. The free screenings include museum admission with advance online registration.

What:

The series, titled “The Modern Era,” explores how Native American communities navigate the complexities of reconnecting with ancestral traditions while engaging with the modern world. All films were directed, written, produced by and/or star Native Americans. Matthew Davila, a member of the Standing Rock Lakota Sioux Tribe, curated the series and will lead a short presentation before each film.

“This year’s film series highlights the ongoing resilience and determination of Native American communities,” said Liz Jackson, President and CEO of the Briscoe Western Art Museum. “These stories illuminate how Indigenous peoples continue to fight for their rights, reclaim their heritage, and navigate the challenges of preserving culture in contemporary America.”

The films address themes of cultural reclamation, environmental justice, food sovereignty and the complex relationship between Native American communities and the federal government. All screenings are free with advance online registration and include full museum admission. Films will be shown monthly on Saturday afternoons, 1:30 – 4:30 p.m.

SEPTEMBER 20 | “GATHER” (2020)

This acclaimed documentary follows Indigenous Americans as they work to reclaim their spiritual and cultural identities through food sovereignty. The film showcases efforts to restore traditional farming practices and sacred food systems as pathways to healing and cultural preservation. Free registration is available online.

OCTOBER 11 | “LAKOTA NATION VS. THE UNITED STATES” (2023)

An urgent documentary examining the Lakota people’s ongoing legal battle to reclaim their sacred land and protect it from government and corporate interests. The film provides critical insight into contemporary struggles for Indigenous sovereignty and environmental protection. Register online to secure free admission.

NOVEMBER 15 | “THUNDERHEART” (1992)

Starring Val Kilmer, this dramatic thriller follows an FBI agent investigating murders on a Native American reservation. Inspired by real events surrounding Native American activist Leonard Peltier, who was imprisoned after the deaths of two FBI agents in 1975 and was granted clemency by President Joe Biden in January 2025. Register in advance for free admission.

Location:

210 W. Market Street, San Antonio, TX 78205

See the West All Year Long at the Briscoe

Located along the historic San Antonio River Walk, the Briscoe is open Thursday, 10 a.m. – 8 p.m., Friday through Monday, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. and closed to the public on Tuesday and Wednesday. Admission is free for children 12 and under and for active duty military. The museum grounds feature 35 sculptures portraying various aspects of Western life. The museum’s beautifully restored historic home inside the former San Antonio Public Library building includes 14 galleries, with special exhibitions, events and the Hendler Family Museum Store, providing art, culture, history and entertainment. Museum hours, parking and admission details are available online.