The Fourth Eye

Why Indigenous Representations in Horror Cinema Need to Change

Abstract

Indigenous representation in horror cinema is often rooted in harmful stereotypes, with films from the 1980s and 1990s, such as Scalps (1983), depicting Indigenous figures as vengeful and monstrous. These portrayals lack cultural specificity and historical context, reinforcing colonial narratives that position Indigenous peoples as threats while ignoring the trauma caused by colonial violence. In contrast, contemporary films like Blood Quantum (2019) use the horror genre to critique colonialism, integrating Indigenous history, aesthetics, and storytelling traditions to offer a more authentic and nuanced perspective. By incorporating oral traditions and cultural practices, these films empower Indigenous filmmakers to reclaim the genre, shifting away from dehumanizing depictions and highlighting the ongoing struggle of Indigenous communities against colonial oppression.