Respond to the following prompts about Smoke Signals:
1) What do Victor and Thomas teach each other in the story?
2) What Native American traditions are presented in the film? How do these traditions help Victor and Thomas in the story?
Please respond to each question in an organized paragraph. Make sure you restate the questions in your writing and make sure you have clear topic sentences.
Victor teaches Thomas not to trust anyone in life. Even the closes people around him. Victor also teaches him not to let people step on him or to let people be mean to him or take advantage of him. Victor tells him to have a warrior face like if he just killed his meal. And to let his hair free. Not to have it all tighten up. Another thing Victor teaches Thomas to change his outfit. To make him more like his culture. Victor teaches Thomas how to be more peaceful, more pure, more humble, and more lovable. Victor helps Thomas to calm down in some situation. They even each other out. Thomas is the positive and Victor is more of the negative.
ReplyDeleteThe Native American traditions are presented by Thomas expressing the story telling, long hair and lastly them singing. Thomas tells stories like he has been thought by the natives. Story telling is very important for them because it suppose to make you imagined the place and the surroundings. Natives believe that their hair is way to express them selves and if they cut it they are ashamed of themselves. If not they are called cowards. Thomas and Victor start singing after they got their seats taken. They sing because it supposes to make them calm down and think about the positive. Let the problem go away.
Victor and Thomas teach each other many things in this movie. For example, Victor teaches Thomas to be more like him and not trust people so easily. He teaches Thomas to unbraid his hair and wear different clothes so that white people wouldn’t walk over him. Additionally, Thomas helps Victor become less stoic and nicer. Thomas also helps Victor realize that his father loved him. Arnold Joseph ran back into the burning house to save Victor after catching and saving Thomas.
ReplyDeleteOne of the Native American traditions presented in the film is singing. Singing gives Victor and Thomas power while on the bus because of the disrespect the white people did to them by taking their seats. Another Native American Tradition is their hair. Hair is a symbol of power for the Native Americans, and they cut it off when they do something shameful. Arnold and Victor both cut their hair in the movie. Lastly, story telling is used frequently throughout the movie. Thomas uses story telling to help them get a ride from two girls in the beginning and he also uses it for entertainment.
Thomas teaches Victor to be less tense, more friendly, and more trusting. At one point of the story Thomas reminds Victor that his dad, Arnold loved him. In a flashback of the fire that killed a lot of people including Thomas's parents, Victor's father went into the flames of the house on fire to save his son. Victor teaches Thomas to be more Native American and less trusting. On the way to Arizona, Thomas meets an Olympic alternate and believes her past experiences. Victor, on the other hand doesn't believe any of it and gets mad at Victor for believing her. During the trip, Victor tells Thomas to unbraid his hair, change his suit, and look more intimidating.
ReplyDeleteIn the story, there is the tradition of story telling. Thomas constantly tells stories during the movie and Arnold telling a lot of stories about Victor. Thomas uses story telling as a source of entertainment. Another tradition, is singing or chanting. On the bus ride to Arizona, two white men steal Victor's and Thomas's seats and were told to sit some where else. In response to that situation, they chant loudly about John Wayne's teeth. One tradition, in Smoke Signals is the significance of hair. Hair symbolizes Native American strength and pride. Victor tells Thomas to let out his hair and for it to become free like how a Native American's hair would be. Also, Arnold and Victor cut off their hair because of committing something shameful or awful.
Victor tries to teach Thomas not to trust anyone in life, even if they are family and not to let people take advantage of him. Victor tells Thomas to have a tough face on and to leave his hair down instead of braiding it. Thomas is also taught to dress right instead of always wearing a suit. Thomas kind of helps Victor by telling stories and calming him down when he loses temper. He helps Victor even though he can often be mean to him.
ReplyDeleteSome Native American traditions represented are story telling, long hair and singing. Native Americans think their soul is like in their hair so if its cut off its the sign of being a coward. Thomas tells stories and they both have their hair long and sing on the bus, even if people stare at them. The way Thomas tells stories, it looks like hes visualizing it as he tells it and he gives detail so whoever is hearing can see it too. When Victor and Thomas' seats are taken they go to the back of the bus and begin to sing, which calms down Victor because he had gotten angry.
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ReplyDeleteIn the story, Victor and Thomas taught each other things that changed their perspective of the world. Thomas taught Victor to have faith in others; that everyone has a negative and positive side to them. He told many stories of Victor’s dad to make him see that he was more than a drunk and irresponsible father that Victor sees. As for Victor, he taught Thomas to “be more Indian” or manly and not trust everybody. He believes that Thomas is too nice and people will walk all over him unless he learns to stand up for himself.
ReplyDeleteThe Native American traditions that were presented in the film included the significance of hair, singing, and the oral tradition of storytelling. Victor’s father shed his hair as he felt shame and guilt for starting the house fire that killed Thomas’ parents. Victor also later cuts off locks of his hair as he sat in his father’s trailer and seeing their family photo. Earlier, on the bus, they sang after having their bus seats taken from them in order to bring up their spirits in the unhappy situation. They use singing as a way to express their emotions and feelings. Thomas, the main narrator of the story, told many stories and they often got on Victor’s nerves. However, his stories also soothed Victor in a way as they brought a positive atmosphere while on their journey.
In the film, Victor and Thomas teach each other valuable traits to help the other be like the other person. Victor teaches Thomas to be more like a real Native American: to not trust people easily, to let his hair free and unbraided, to always keep a warrior face showing. Victor teaches those traits to Thomas because he views Thomas not as a true Native American, but as a loser. Thomas, on the other hand, teaches Victor to be kind, control his temper, enjoy life, take everything at ease, and to not stress in situations. It’s because of these characters opposite characteristics that balance each other out throughout the film.
ReplyDeleteNative American traditions that are evident throughout the film include the sign of hair, singing, and storytelling. Hair defines a Native American’s character; they don’t cut it unless they feel shame. In the film, Victor’s Dad, Arnold Joseph, cut off all of his own hair because he felt great shame when he was the one that started the 4th of July fire that killed Thomas’ parents. Victor, as well, cut off his own hair because he felt the shame of carrying the burdens of his father’s doings. Another Native American tradition shown in the film was the use of singing; it is what gives Native Americans courage and know they can overcome obstacles. Victor and Thomas sing in the bus when they lost their seats to Americans so that they could lift their spirits up. The last evident tradition shown was storytelling; Thomas is always telling stories and it is a major factor throughout the film which gives a background to what is going on and the relationship between Victor and his father. At first, Victor finds Thomas’ stories to be annoying, but as the movie progresses, Victor learns that it is what builds his relationship with his father when he left.
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ReplyDeleteVictor teaches Thomas about deception. Victor trusts nobody and believes Thomas should know why. Victor, throughout the movie, shows Thomas why he should not trust anybody so easily. Thomas also has something to teach. He shows Victor that not everybody is bad and you should try to look for the good in people. Thomas constantly tells Victor stories about his dad because Thomas liked Victor's Dad.
ReplyDeleteThe chanting on the bus, the hair cutting and the stories Thomas tells are a few traditions that were presented in the movie. When the white man on the bus tells them to "have a powwow at the back of the bus" they begin to chant; while holding on to their traditions they don't allow the white man to push them down. Victor soon regrets how he felt about his father and feels shame. Through the cutting of his hair he shows the shame that he's felt. He's been able to accept what happened and the closure allowed him to do so. Thomas, throughout the entire movie, holds on to his origins by storytelling. He tells the ladies in the car a story for a ride, the lady who knew Victor's Dad about Victor's Mom and the Fry Bread and even stories about Victor's own dad to Victor.
In the movie, Smoke Signals by Chris Eyre, the protagonists Victor and Thomas teach each other worthwhile lessons that altered their attitudes and personalities. For example, Victor teaches Thomas how to become a "real Indian." Victor's believes and teaches Thomas that to be considered a real Indian, one must act like a warrior by intimidating others with his or her look, let one's hair roam freely, dress properly, and not trust other people. Thomas, on the other hand, teachers Victor to forgive, trust, and be more kind. Eventually, in the end of the movie, Victor has a new found respect for his father, Arnold, as well as a greater understanding for his friend, Thomas. These two Indians both changed their own individual mindsets as a result of the journey they faced together.
ReplyDeleteThere are many Native American traditions present throughout the film that helped Victor and Thomas throughout their extensive journey, including the value of hair, the act of singing, and the art of storytelling. In Native American culture, hair is a symbol for worthiness and honor. Victor tells Thomas to leave his hair free and open, as it allows him to be more proud as a Native American. Cutting one's hair can be a cause from shameful or guilty actions. This can evidently be seen by Victor's dad who decides to cut his hair due to causing a flame which wiped out most of his friends and family. When misfortune and depressing events such as those occur, another tradition that is widespread in Native American history is singing, which is used to cheer up and feel excited. After losing their seats in the bus, Victor and Thomas began to sing in order to boost up their spirits. Lastly, story telling is a popular traditions used to share history, preserve culture, and express customs. Thomas is known for his story telling; he constantly tells stories which exhibits vivid imagery about the connection between Victor and his father in the past. Although Victor was originally annoyed by Thomas' constant story-telling, he eventually grows fond of it and guides Victor in the right direction. These Native American tradition allows Victor and Thomas to learn more about themselves, and guides them in the right direction in life.
In the movie, Victor teaches Thomas to not be so gullible. Thomas trusts people too easily and believes everything he hears. He also teaches Thomas how to become a real Indian by showing him how to dress and how he should portray himself. Thomas on the other hand, teaches Victor to be more kind and understanding. At the end of the movie, Victor's hatred for his dad disappears. Victor also becomes more tolerable of Thomas and his stories. Although they started out on a rough note, they learned to accept each other's differences and got along.
ReplyDeleteThe Native American traditions that were present throughout the movie were the chanting on the bus, story telling, and value of long hair. With Thomas's creative imagination, they were able to get a ride from the two women. It served as a great sense of entertainment when they were walking too. In addition to story telling, chanting is a major aspect of Native American culture. Through chanting, Indians are able to release their emotions instead of resulting to violence. When they were on the bus and Victor got agitated when the men stole their seats, he released his anger through chanting. Last but not least, Native Americans value their long hair. They only cut it off when they feel like they've done something shameful. This tradition is emphasized a lot because Arnold cut off his hair when he killed Thomas's parents in a fire and Victor cut his hair when he felt like he wronged his dad.
In Smoke Signals, Thomas and Victor teaches each other many different life lessons. Victor teaches Thomas to act like a true Indian by changing his outfit instead of the suit that makes him look like a nerd and letting his hair free. As well as, he teaches Thomas to not be a fool by not believing what everyone says, and also to have a mean look like a warrior to intimidate people, so that people can’t take advantage of him. While Thomas teaches Victor forgiveness by telling him all the positive deeds his dad did. Especially when he couldn’t move on and accept what happened in the past.
ReplyDeleteThe Native American traditions presented in this film are storytelling, singing, and long hair. Thomas uses storytelling to hitch a ride from Velma and Lucy. Also, he uses it to express his imaginations about what happened in the past between him, Victor and his dad Arnold. Singing is a way of entertainment for Native Americans and to express their feelings. On the way to Arizona, Victor and Thomas decides to sing in the bus to enlighten their spirits after having their seat taken away. Having long hair is important for Native Americans, it represents pride. In addition, cutting it shows that you are ashamed of yourself and willing to start over. During in the trailer, Victor decides to cut his hair short after realizing that he is left with nothing.
The film “Smoke Signals,” directed by Chris Eyre, tells the story of two childhood friends Victor and Thomas. Victor is depicted as athletic and untrusting. Thomas is seen as a geek who tells a lot of false stories. Their opposing personalities make them learn from traveling with each other. On the journey to recover Arnold Jospeph’s (Victor’s father) remains, Victor teaches Thomas how to act like an Indian warrior and not to let people take advantage of him. Thomas teaches Victor that it’s not always him against the world and he should let more people in.
ReplyDeleteNative American traditions presented in the film include storytelling, singing, and long hair. Storytelling helps Thomas and Victor at the beginning of the film by getting them a ride to the edge of the reservation. On the bus to Arizona, Thomas and Victor lose their seats to two white men. After being mocked, they sing at the back of the bus which empowers them. Traditionally, long hair is a sign of a Native American’s pride. They cut off locks of their hair when mourning or feeling shameful. This is seen when Arnold Joseph cuts off his long hair after he accidentally starts the fire killing Thomas’ parents. Victor also cuts off his hair when he starts to mourn his father’s death.
In Smoke Signal, Victor is shown as the athletic cool kid, Thomas is the geeky not so cool kid. Victor teaches Thomas that he should not trust everyone. Victor teaches Thomas that he should stand up for himself and not get looked down at by others. He also teaches Thomas that he should dress less formal, and let his hair free, to be a real indian. Thomas on the other hand, teaches Victor to forgive and trust people again. He teaches Victor that he should be more kind to people.
ReplyDeleteThe Native American Traditions that are presented in this film are chanting, storytelling and the value of long hair. Thomas being the talkative one, tells a lot of stories about Victor's Father being a good man to Victor to convince Victor to forgive his Father. He also uses story telling to get a ride for Victor and himself near the beginning of the film. Chanting is used when Victor and Thomas got their seats taken by other passengers on the bus. By chanting, the two of them get a sense of power and happiness. The cutting of the long hair symbolizes shame and guilt. The value of long hair is shown in the film when Victor's Father cuts his own hair for the shame of what he has done, accidentally lighting the house on fire, causing the death of Thomas' parents. It is also shown when Victor tells Thomas that he's suppose to let his hair free and not restrict it to braids. Later on, Victor also cuts his long hair for the morning of his Father's death or possibly for the guilt of what his Father has done to Thomas' parents.
In Smoke Signals, the main characters, Victor and Thomas teach one another many different ways to experience life. Thomas teaches Victor to be more kind and loving towards other people. He also teaches Victor that his father really did love him because he went into a burning building to save him. On the other hand, Victor teaches Thomas to not be so trusting and to be more aware of what others think of him. Victor tells Thomas to let down his hair and be more Native American.
ReplyDeletePlenty of Native American traditions are presented in Smoke Signals, such as; the importance of hair, chants, and stories. Hair is a major factor in the Native American culture. Hair represents strength and courage. The cutting off ones long hair represents shame. Victor and his father both cut off their long hair because they feel shame in their actions. This teaches Victor humility and helps him move on in life from his past mistakes. Chants too mean a lot to the Native American culture. Chants have special healing powers. Chants help people to release their problems to a higher power and heal people physically and emotionally. Chanting in the bus after having their seats taken by whites taught Victor and Thomas to accept the problems in life and let them go. Stories help Native Americans explain the inexplicable moments in life. Stories distract people from life's problems and help them to try to understand why certain situations have to happen in life. Thomas uses stories to help him cope with his problems. All in all; hair, chants and stories affect the Native American culture immensely.
Asia Cruz
In the movie smoke signals, Thomas and victor try to teach other in how an Native American supposed to act and their status. Since there’s a difference between them, Thomas gives examples of trying to understand other people and trust them however Victor opposes Thomas personality being so nice. He then lectures him not to give himself too much by telling Thomas not to trust anyone. They, also debate on making the right choices. For example Thomas trying to convince Victor to forgive his father and Victor the opposite off the agreement.
ReplyDeleteSome of the Native American tradition that helps Thomas and Victor is on their trip to Phoenix, was trading with two of the local girls around town who had car. The was Thomas sharing one of his great stories in order to have a ride to the closest bus stop outside of town. Another was story telling overall because; it helped Victor understand his father’s problems and finally forgiving him and doing penance.
Dylan Sanchez
1. In the movie, Thomas teach Victor to be understanding and not selfish. Victor only care about himself, he has a lot of anger inside him. He blamed his Dad for leaving him and his mom, he thinks his Dad cared about Thomas more than him, yet little did he know, he means the world to his Dad. It took some times but Thomas sure got to Victor with all the stories telling and what not. On the other hand, Victor also teach Thomas to be more independent and Indian. To Victor, Thomas trust other people so easily and well, Victor show Thomas that not everyone is nice and honest like they say they are. Thomas and Victor are two different people yet somehow they're able to come together and show each other their different views in life.
ReplyDelete2. The Native Americans tradition that represented in this film is the tradition of cutting hair and storytelling. In the beginning of the movie, Victor had long hair because he didn't feel no shame, he was just living his life but ever since his dad's death and what he found out about his dad in the trailer, he felt shame. He regrets ever thinking bad about his father, and through the cutting of his long hair, it shows that he accepted what has happened and moved on with his life. As for Thomas, throughout the entire movie, he stick to his story telling and because of that, Victor finally understand his Dad.
Kristina Nguyen
1. I believe that Victor taught Thomas how to be more like his roots, his Native American roots that have seem to be disguised by a tuxedo and two pigtail braids. Victor also seems to teach Thomas that he should act like him, stern and reserved. Thomas taught Victor to be more open and to be more trustful of others. Thomas thinks that Victor will be happier if he is also more patient. So they learned from each other, and later on in the movie, they actually act a little from what they taught each other.
ReplyDelete2. The Native American traditions in the movie was the importance of chanting, the alcoholism, the importance of hair, reservation life, the harassments and story telling. The traditions show how hard it was growing up being a Native American, and how hard it was with his specific history. Leon's history is tough because not only that his father left him at a young age, but the death followed by memories but as well as the truth told to him by Suzy Song. Thomas's past was rough as well, but not as lonely as Victor's; while Victor had his mom and dad, he was forced to live with his grandma because of the fire that was started by Arnold-Victor's father. The time from the reservation to Arizona was time consuming, it was filled with traditional values like story telling that got Victor mad, harassment from the two white men that rudely took their seats, the value of hair as a value of pride and the hard hitting alcoholism. Although it works out in the end and they learn something meaningful and have respect for other things.
Jerome Manera
1.Victor taught Thomas how to be more “Indian” because he doesn’t approve of how Thomas acts. Victor cares more about what “Americans” think of Natives more then what Natives think of Natives. But on the other hand, Thomas taught Victor how to enjoy life and give back instead of taking. He told Victor that even though Victor knew his dad was; he didn’t know who his dad really was. He didn’t give his parents enough credit for what they did and who they are. Thomas helps Victor become more selfless.
ReplyDelete2.Some of the traits in the movie are story telling, singing, and some more. I think singing helped Victor and Thomas the most because it seems like that was when they got along the most. For example, when Victor sang on the basketball court, Thomas joined in and it seems like they were both enjoying themselves. Also, when Victor and Thomas sang about that one guy’s teeth, it shows that even though they have two different personalities, singing is one of the things they have in common, as well as with other Native Americans.
In the movie, Smoke Signals, Thomas and Victor teach each other valuable lessons throughout their adventure. Thomas teaches Victor to be more positive rather than negative all the time. Thomas is very optimistic and expects the most favorable outcome. Thomas teaches Victor to be friendly and trusting to others even when you might not know them. For example, Thomas befriends the olympic athlete on the bus to Arizona, while Victor accuses her of lying. Also, Thomas reminds Victor constantly of his father and how he was a caring person. Victor, on the other hand, is the exact opposite of Thomas. Victor teaches Thomas to stand up for himself and not to trust others. He also teaches Thomas to be a real Indian. Victor tells Thomas to unbraid his hair to let it flow. Victor teaches Thomas to be proud of his long hair and to be proud of who he is.
ReplyDeleteMany Native American traditions are presented in the film, Smoke Signals. One of the traditions is storytelling. This tradition helps Thomas and Victor get through some problems on their journey. It gives them hope and a look back at what things use to be in the past. It also gives them a source of entertainment. Another tradition that is mentioned in the movie is having long hair. It helps Thomas and Victor to embrace who they are as Indians. When Victor goes to his fathers trailer, he cuts off his hair because he is ashamed. It particularly helps Victor to get through his problems with his deceased father. Another tradition in the movie is respecting your ancestors or family. Victor despised his father for leaving the family behind. When Victor realized he loved and respected his father, it gave him the courage to move on with his life and also Thomas’s life.
Victor teaches Thomas to "be an Indian" and Thomas does the same in his own way. Victor teaches Thomas that he should be stoic and strong. Thomas indirectly teaches Victor how to be understanding and learn from stories, until Thomas yells at his face that helps push sense into Victor. There's not really a true way to learn how to be an "Indian"; however, Victor and Thomas learn what they're taught even though it took a while.
ReplyDeleteSome Native American traditions that are presented in this film are storytelling, finding understanding and spirituality, and perhaps the way they dress. Thomas shows the old, stereotypical storytelling, hair-braided, weird “Indian” who speaks in proverbs and teaches through riddles. Thomas prods and picks at Victor using his storytelling and annoyingness in order to help him see what he’s missing. Thomas also shows determination in finding signs with spirituality. He walks to “find a sign.” He also shows “a perfect example of his culture’s tradition.” Victor, although he’s not dressed up like Thomas (or rather, act like him), he cuts his hair and also spreads his father’s ashes in hopes of him “rising from the river.”
Nicole Alfonso
Victor teaches Thomas how to "live" like a true Native American teaching him how to dress and how to tend to his hair. Victor also teaches him how to not trust everybody and be smart on the street. He shows him how to show and hide his emotions to be like a “warrior”, how to live life as a smart person with respect and much more. Thomas teaches Victor how to behave as a person who has "book smarts". Thomas also Victor to show gratitude for the things in life and how to understand what his father did for him and love him for what he did for him, his family and friends.
ReplyDeleteThroughout the movie they show some Native American traditions. Some examples include storytelling, passing down information from generation to generation. This helps Thomas and Victor by asking and passing information. Some examples shown in the movie include telling each other Native American stories and passes family recipes and such. Another example of Native American tradition is when both Victor and his dad cut their hair. For Native Americans their hair is sacred. It is a symbol of bravery, and being a great person overall. When one cuts his or her hair it is a sign that the person did something unjust or feels guilty and strips him or herself of their “greatness”
In the story, Victor and Thomas teach each other important life lessons. Victor, who is more serious and cautious, teaches Thomas to be more wary of strangers and less trusting of anyone he meets along their journey. Victor also believes in acting like a stoic Indian warrior because he believes it will give him respect. Thomas, on the other hand, teaches Victor more about his father through story-telling because Victor only seems to see the negative side of his dad. Along with his stories, Thomas tells Victor to get over his dark past, move on, and no longer pity himself.
ReplyDeleteChanting and singing are some Native American traditions represented in the film. In the story, Victor and Thomas begin singing their “John Wayne’s Teeth” song on the bus, as if to distract themselves from the argument they had previously gotten into on the bus. This represents how chants and songs are important in Native American culture because it allows them to positively express their emotions.
-Rebekah Dimaandal, p.3
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ReplyDeleteIn the movie, both Victor and Thomas learn important lessons from each other, which changes who they are. Victor teaches Thomas his view, on what an Indian should look/act like. According to Victor an Indian, has a “warrior” look so white people will have respect, have wild free hair and that trust is not easily earned. In the beginning of the film Thomas was very gullible; in a way very forgiving. This is shown on the bus where Thomas believed every word the white girl says. He looks “un-Indian” like because of his neat hair and vest& tie. When they stop the bus, Thomas goes inside to change. When they got on the bus, Victor’s axiom was proven false when the white guys took their seats. Victor on the other hand acts more stoic. He is a much taller, and is a more masculine looking Indian, compared to Thomas who is scrawny and nerdy. Even so, Thomas helps Victor in many ways. One clear way he helps Victor is, how he paid from them to go to Arizona to get his dads remains. Thomas, more importantly, teaches Victor to forgive. In the movie Victor was always hating on his dad and Thomas would always tell him stories about how good of a person his father was. In the end, Victor cuts off some of his hair because he is ashamed and realizes that Thomas was right all along. In ways, Victor and Thomas are like brothers, but each have very different views. The journey changes both, forever.
ReplyDeleteIn smoke signals Indian traditions are shown in many ways, the long hair, singing, storytelling, and a “god” like figure. In many Indian cultures, hair is a sign for honor and courage and is cut off when they perform a shameful act. This is shown though out the movie. When Victor goes into the trailer where his dad died, and found out his dad loved him. That he didn’t mean to leave them forever; Victor is ashamed of the hate he had for his father, thus cutting off lots of his hair. This is also shown with his dad. Victor’s dad cut off his hair because he started the fire, therefore killing Thomas’ parents. Singing in Indian tradition is to past time or for important reasons. Singing is shown on the bus. Singing helped Victor and Thomas forget about how the white diss them. Most Indian back then didn’t have history books. In order to past history down the line, they most tell stories. Storytelling in the movie is mostly done by Thomas. He tells stories to past time. Also once he got a ride for telling a good story. In all Indian culture, there is always someone who has a god like power. In the end of the movie, we get a sense that Thomas can see into the future, because his grandma asks, “What’s going to happen.”
1. Victor and Thomas are two men with nothing in common. Their conflicting personalities give each other a different viewpoint on life. Thomas is much more optimistic and trusting of others, and Victor sees very little good in people. Victor sees Thomas as too trusting and Thomas sees Victor as the opposite. Thomas teaches Victor that there is some good in people and not all people are bad. He emphasized the good side of Victor's father and showed him that he isn't as bad of a father as Victor thought he was. On the other end, Victor taught Thomas to not trust people too much and how to not be as much of a pushover as he was. He showed Thomas how people will take advantage of him if he lets them.
ReplyDelete2. One of the most well known Native American traditions of storytelling is shown multiple times throughout the film. One way storytelling helped Victor and Thomas is that they were able to get a ride from the two girls for telling them a story. The more significant way storytelling helped is that it helped Victor and Thomas remember their roots and their memories. By taking the time to tell these stories and to listen to them, they are honoring their past by not forgetting about it. The stories that Victor's father told Suzy Song also helped Victor by showing him that he never forgot about him and his past either.
1. In the movie, Smoke Signals, both Victor and Thomas learn how to be more down with their roots. Victor portrays his environment of hiding their native heritage. But he stills thinks of the the true qualities and even uses them in the modern world. Apparently Thomas didn't quite understand and was ordered to loosen up from his apparel; two braids and a suede suit.
ReplyDelete2. Traditions such as the spread of Victors dads ashes, the chant sung on the bus,the cutting of Victors hair, or even storytelling, those represent Native traditions, especially using them in modern day. With their Native qualities still being used in their time, it helps Victor and Thomas realize the true qualities. Realizing how each act represents something, such as the cutting of hair representing shame, each person learns the properties of their true heritage and how it can effect one dearly.
Erika Williams p.3
Smoke Signals Questions
ReplyDelete1. Victor and Thomas are basically the opposite of each other, but they grow off each other and learn new things because of the person’s different lifestyle. Thomas is geeky, childish, and is very talkative. Victor is more cool, athletic, and realistic. Thomas enjoys story telling, even though he repeats the same stories and one can never tell if they are true or not. Victor teaches Thomas that you can’t trust everyone in life or else you will get deceived. Victor also teaches Thomas how to do a warrior face and how to “use” his hair. Thomas teaches Victor more about his father by essentially paying for the trip to Phoenix and telling him stories about his father over and over.
2. The three major Native American traditions presented in the film are the cutting of hair, story telling, and singing. Thomas is a huge story teller who tells his stories to entertain people or gain favors, such as a car ride. Singing or chanting is a big tradition in Native American society and was shown when Thomas and Victor started to sing about John Wayne’s teeth on the bus. They started singing after two white men stole their seats on the bus, so the singing is a sort of way for them to forget about the problem. Hair is very important to Native Americans. They let their hair grow out as they only cut their hair when they are ashamed of themselves. When Victor cut his hair might be a symbol of giving up his old feelings and starting over. He felt his father left him because he didn’t love or care for him but didn’t realize he was wrong until he saw the family portrait with home on the back He built himself around his feeling towards his father and when they weren’t true, he lost them and had to start over.
1. In the story, Victor teaches Thomas to not trust anyone so easily. He explains to Thomas that not everyone is what you think they are. Victor tells Thomas to not let anyone take advantage of him. Victor shows him the right way a Native American’s face should look like. The warrior look that Victor taught Thomas would show people to not step on Native Americans. Thomas in the other hand helps Victor become a nicer person. Thomas shows Victor that his father was never a bad guy.
ReplyDelete2. In the film, three kinds of Native American traditions were performed. Those three traditions are singing, chanting, storytelling, and the cutting of hair. One example of how chanting helped Victor and Thomas is when they lost their seats on the bus. Thomas and Victor started to chant to overcome the disrespect and rudeness that just happened to them. Another example is when Victor and his dad, at some point, cut their hair. The act of cutting their hair shows that they have done something shameful. The last example is about storytelling. Storytelling helped Victor and Thomas get a ride from two girls in the movie. Not only did it help them in that way, but the Native Americans enjoy storytelling.
1. In the movie both Victor and Thomas teach eachother lessons that change them. Thomas teaches Victor how to be more understanding of others and to forgive. Victor has been through a lot with his father because of all the physical and mental abuse he recieved as a child. His father's actions have caused Victor to become angry and hard. Throughtout the movie Thomas slowly causes Victor to reflect and realize he can forgive his father for leaving and causing him to hurt. Victor also teaches Thomas that he should not be so trusting of other people because not everyone has good intentions. He also teaches Thomas how to be free-sprited by getting rid of the tuxedo and letting his braids out.
ReplyDelete2. Some Native American traditions presented in the film are ceremonies, chants, and story telling. Chanting helped Thomas and Victor to get over the anger they felt when they were agruing with the two white men on the bus; when they stole their seats. The began singing the song of " John Wayne" and soon after they had forgotten all about it. Storytelling was also helpful because it helped Thomas and Victor to get a ride from the two Native girls from the reservation. Ceremonies were very important because that helped Victor meditate and forgive his father.
Evaliz Rosales P.4
In the movie Smoke Signals Victor and Thomas learn many things from each other through out the movie. Thomas teaches Victor that his dad wasn't as bad as he thinks, he tells stories about Victor's dad being almost supernatural. This helps him see his dad as something other than the man that left him. Victor teaches Thomas to not be so trust worthy with every one, because not everyone has you'r best interest at heart.
ReplyDeleteMany native american traditions are shown in this movie. From the spreading of Victor's dads ashes to the cutting of his hair. When their seats are taken on the bus, singing helps them show that they can't be held down.These traditions help Victor and Thomas through out the movie by helping them stay grounded to their roots.
Samantha Harn period 4
Throughout the movie, both Victor and Thomas teach each other many things. Amongst the pair, Victor is more of the masculine, tough-guy Indian. He believes that a true Indian has to be strong like a warrior. He teaches Thomas to take this figure of an Indian warrior so that people will not take advantage of him or try to step on him. Victor tells Thomas that he cannot trust anyone, even if they are close to him. Furthermore, Victor tells Thomas not to braid his hair and wear a suit. He believes letting his hair down will help him look more like a fierce Indian. On the other hand, the character of Thomas has a geeky, friendly personality. He has a great sense of the oral tradition, which he believes is very important to the Indian culture. In the movie, he attempts to teach Victor the softer side of Native Americans. He tries to calm Victor down when he gets angry. Also, Thomas will almost blindly trust anyone; he sets an example of trust for Victor.
ReplyDeleteNative American traditions such as storytelling, the importance of hair, and singing or chanting are presented in the story. These traditions also play an important role in the lives of the main character, Victor and Thomas. Thomas displays the Indian oral tradition throughout the story with his vivid stories. The stories are a source of entertainment; they also provide a positive and optimistic atmosphere for the characters, even though Victor often became angry when Thomas was reciting his story. Hair is shown to be extremely important to Indians in the story. It often represents honor in Indian culture. Both Arnold Joseph and Victor Joseph cut their hair off when they realize they have done a shameful deed. There is one scene where Victor and Thomas sing a song after they lost their seats to rude, white men. Singing, in a way, united everyone and helped Victor and Thomas move on. Victor especially was mad at the white men, but after singing his mood improves.
Harpreet Mahi
Period 04
In the movie smoke signals, Victor teaches Thomas life lessons he thinks will help him become a “better” Native American. One main idea that Victor teaches Thomas is to not put so much trust into people. Victor also believes that Thomas should be tougher in the way he acts and looks. There is a drastic difference in the way Thomas and Victor act, an example is the two men’s hair. If you compare their hair, Victor’s is loose and free, which shows his own personality; while Victors’ hair is more set and fixed. Thomas on the other hand, teaches Victor to see the bright side of his dad by telling him stories. I think Thomas tells the same stories multiple times because he truly believes that Victors’ dad was a great man. I think because they have different perspectives, they need each other more than they think.
ReplyDeleteSome Native American traditions presented in the film are storytelling, singing, and the cutting of the hair. During the movie, Thomas starts out by telling stories about his reservation. Even though Victor is not that fond of Thomas’ stories, Thomas doesn’t care. In the film, the two cowboys take their seats on the bus. As a result of not getting into a rumble with the cowboys, the two men start to sing about John Wayne’s teeth very loud. I think singing is a way for them to escape from any anger towards others. When Arnold, Victor’s dad left the reservation, he cut of his hair because he felt ashamed of himself. When Victor went into his father’s trailer, he found his dads wallet with a family picture of them, and on the back he had written home. Victor suddenly started to feel bad about being negative towards his dad, so in response, he cut his hair.
Deanne Juson
Period 3
Victor tries to teach Thomas to be a less gullible, naive person. I think he does this because he cares for Thomas, even though he doesn't really show it. He doesn't want someone to take advantage of Thomas and walk all over him. He wants to teach him to stand up for himself and be more of a classic Indian. Thomas, on the other hand, tries to teach Victor how to enjoy the now. How to be a little looser. He wants Victor to trust more and be more sociable. In a sense, they try to teach each other how to be more like themselves.
ReplyDeleteThe biggest Native American tradition that is presented in this film is obviously, storytelling. Thomas is constantly, non-stop telling stories. He tells story that are sad, optimistic, funny, uplifting, and even omniscient. He is doing this to remember the past but to also to help Victor get through hard times. When your listening to a story your being entertained your not using any energy or receiving any stress. Your just listening to a story. Thomas wants Victor to move on from his hard past and lighten up so he uses stories to lighten the mood which doesn't always work.
Mathew Quintana
Period 3
Victor tries to teach Thomas to act more like an Indian. He does this to help give Thomas more courage and to help him get closer to his heritage. Thomas teaches Victor about enjoying life and having fun. He does this to help Victor feel better about the stuff going on in his life. He also uses this to help Victor move on with his life.
ReplyDeleteThere are many different traditions shown in this movie. One tradition they show is the art of story telling which can be a powerful thing. These stories help them get rides and information from people. Also they sing to keep their spirits up after Victor and Thomas lose their seats on the bus. Lastly, Victor throws his dad's ashes into the river as sign of respect to his dad.
Samuel Helton
Period 3
In the movie, Smoked Signals, Victor and Thomas teach each other how to be more like each other. Victor teaches Thomas to be more loose or relaxed, and to be more Native American. Thomas teaches Victor to be honest with yourself, and to enjoy life at the fullest with joy and adventure.
ReplyDeleteNative American traditions that you would see in Smoked Signals are storytelling, singing, and you also see hair being a sign of power. Storytelling helps Victory and Thomas to see the bright side of any situation, and to be entertained in any way. Singing teaches Thomas and Victor to remember their culture and where they originally came from. Victor learned that cutting his hair would show that he is ashamed and is sorry for what he did, and also it helps him understand more about his dad.
Chris Jao
Period 4
In the movie Smoke Signals, there are two main characters: Victor and Thomas. They both teach each other something; both teachings reflect on their past and what happened to them. Since Victor's dad, Arnold Joseph abandoned Victor and Victor's mother, Arlene; it made Victor not trust anyone around him. He taught Thomas not to be gullible and not to trust everyone. Thomas'parents died in a fire, and Arnold Joseph was the one who saved him from the fire;Thomas really valued and appreciated Victor's dad for saving him. Victor refused to forgive his own dad for abandoning him and Arlene. Thomas talked some sense into Victor,which later on taught Victor how to forgive his dad.
ReplyDeleteThe Native American traditions that were shown in Smoke Signals were singing/chanting, storytelling,and valuing hair as a sign of courage and power. Storytelling gave Victor and Thomas a car ride to a bus stop to Phoenix. When two guys took their seats on the bus, singing/chanting got their minds off of it. Victor cut of his hair after finding out his dad really didn't mean to leave him and Arlene; he felt ashamed for holding the grudge for so long.
1) In the movie, Smoke Signals, Victor and Thomas both teach each other something throughout the movie.Victors character is one that comes off as negative and judgmental.Thomas is more
ReplyDeleteof the positive thinker who is willing to give people a chance and sees the good side of everyone. Although they were complete opposites, Thomas teaches Victor to be more willing to get to know a person before judging them and that everyone deserves a chance. Victor teaches Thomas to not always trust everyone because sometimes there intentions may not benefit him or might put him in a bad situation.So in this way Thomas learns to be more aware of the people he trusts and Victor learns to be more open to meeting new people.
2) One very distinct Native American tradition presented in the film, Smoke Signals, was story telling. Thomas was a one of a kind story teller who told stories that were difficult to tell if
they were truth or fiction. His stories brought entertainment to everyone, besides Victor.Also,the woman who was neighbors with Victors dad told many stories about him to Victor and Thomas
which opened Victors eyes in the way he viewed his father. This helped him by forgiving his father as well as becoming a better person to Thomas and his mother. Another tradition I noticed
was chanting. This helped Thomas and Victor lighten the mood and make them feel more happy then angry when two cowboys took there seats on the bus ride to Phoenix.Overall, both Native American
traditions helped them out in some way or another.
Throughout the movie, Victor and Thomas learn and gain a better understanding of each other. Victor teaches Thomas how to be a more intimidating by telling him to take his braids out, dress more appropriately to what a “real” native is, and to not trust other people so easily. Thomas opens Victor’s mind and shows him how to be more kind, forgiving, and understanding. Thomas also gives Victor a new perspective of his father. After looking down upon his father for so long, Thomas helps Victor gain a new type of respect for his father. The two characters, almost completely opposite in terms of personality, reciprocate and balance each other out, making their journey a successful and life-changing one.
ReplyDeleteThis film, created by Native Americans themselves, shows the many traditions of the culture throughout the movie; storytelling and hair cutting are major traditions presented multiple times in the movie. Thomas tells many imaginative stories to make conversation, and to entertain the people he tells his stories to. Another Native American tradition that is presented in the film is the act of cutting one’s hair because of a shameful or guilty occurrence. Victor and his father both cut off their hair in the story, as a sign of something that they did that was shameful.
1. In the film Smoke Signals, Victor teaches Thomas not to trust anyone do easily. Thomas is the one who is always trusting everyone he meets, because he is always fascinated by all the stories that people tell him. Victor doesn't really believe in that, he doesn't trust anyone so easily. Also, what Thomas teaches Victor to accept his father Arnold. Victor hated the fact that his father for leaving him and his mother; he carried that hate all these years until he finds out that his father has passed away. Thomas in the other hand, didn't know what went on the past couple years between the relationship of Victor and his father; Thomas only saw the good side of Arnold, he never really understood Victor and all his hate for this father. Thomas would always praise Arnold, and how good he was; Victor didn't really understand at the first. But in the end, Victor finally realized that the only reason why his father left is because he was ashamed of what he has done to Thomas' parents and learns to forgive him.
ReplyDelete2. Some examples of the traditions featured in this film were storytelling and singing. Storytelling is a main tradition in this film because it is what Thomas loves to do, it's his talent; to bring stories to life. Thomas' storytelling was a pain for Victor because Thomas would never shut up that's why Victor would always get mad at him. But Thomas' storytelling came in handy when they traded his story for a car ride to get to the bus stop to get to Victor's father. Singing is another important tradition used in this film because whenever Victor and Thomas encounter people that aren't like them, and those people make them feel ashamed in some way, they sing to make their feelings feel better. A great example was when two men took the boys' seats in the bus, and the boys had no choice but to move. Later on, the boys just talked about how the men looked and sang. One last important value in the film was the cutting of the hair; meaning if you cut your hair, you feel ashamed. Victor's father Arnold first cut his hair when he felt guilty about what he did to Thomas' parents, and Victor also cuts his hair when he felt ashamed in the end of the film. It just proves that they value their hair very seriously, because this represents their courage, and strength; and without this, strength is no longer important.
In the movie, Smoke Signals, directed by Chris Eyre, Victor and Thomas teach other different things that in the end changes the way they view the world. Victor teaches Thomas not trust people so easily and shows him the "proper" way of being an Indian. For example, when Thomas and Victor ride the bus and some back-up athlete tells Thomas lies, making him believe that they were true, Victor puts a sense of reality back to Thomas, reminding him that she was only a back-up and that none of what she said was true. In addition, Victor also teaches Thomas how to be though and become this so-called "proper" Indian. He does this by changing his facial expression so that he looks tougher, his outfit so that he doesn't look so formal and geeky, and his hair so that it's more loose and free. On the other hand, Thomas teaches Victor to have a little more faith in people and become nicer. Throughout most parts of the movie, Victor is negative and rude. Thomas changes him by constantly reminding him the good in people and that his father, did in fact, and still, to this day, love him.
ReplyDeleteIn the movie, Smoke Signals, directed by Chris Eyre, different Native American traditions are presented in the film. Some examples presented are the long hair, story-telling, and chants. The long hair represents courage; therefore, it is very valuable to them. To get rid of the long hair and cut it means that they must have done something that they feel is shameful and cowardly. Story-telling is also a huge deal; it is used for entertainment purposes. Since there was only little to no technology back then, creativity was needed to entertain themselves. Chants are equally as important; they are used to lighten up the mood. For example, when Victor and Thomas lose their seats, they end up singing about John Wayne's teeth and laughing about it. This helps calm their minds and brighten up their day; they all of a sudden don't care about the seats that are taken in the bus. These traditions are used to help create a positive aura and spread the good.
Period 4
There were many life lessons in the movie. Victor is a more self reserved and more cautious. So he tells Thomas that he can't be so open to strangers and trust anyone he meets. Victor also tells him that he has to loosen his hair from the braids and start looking more Native American as he says that he will get more respect from others if he does. Alternatively, Thomas tells all these stories about Victor's dad to him and tells him more positive things about him. Victor has this view that his dad left him and his mom and only sees negative traits about him. Thomas tries to change Victor's perspective of his father.
ReplyDeleteThere are many important Native American traditions. Some are singing and chanting, storytelling, and their long hair. Thomas would always tell stories throughout their whole trip and it represents that Native Americans had a huge sense of imagination. After they both get into an argument with someone else on the bus, Thomas and Victor start to sing "John Wayne's Teeth" as if it was away to forget the fight and have some relief. Singing and chanting is important in their culture because they can express how they are feeling in a positive way. In addition, their long hair is a symbol of strength.
~Johaide Martinez P.3
Throughout the movie both Victor and Thomas teach each other valuable life lessons. Victor teaches Thomas that he can't be so trustworthy, and that there is no one that you can trust but yourself. He also teaches Thomas how to act like a "real Indian". The way Victor sees that a "true indian" should be is wit their hair do and not wearing suits like Thomas did. Victor thought that by the way Thomas looked and acted people would walk over him and not take him serious. On the other hand, what Thomas tried to teach Victor throughout the whole movie is that he should try to trust people. Also that he should be more friendly to people. Thomas repetitively tells Victor stories about his father, telling Victor that his father did love him. Even though Thomas and Victor both saw the world a different way at the end of the movie they were able to teach each other a few things.
ReplyDeleteThe different Native American traditions from this film were; the value of long hair, story telling, and chanting. Long hair is valued a lot by Native American men. The only reason that they would cut it is if they feel they have done something wrong. In the Movie Victor cuts his long hair because he feels as if he was misjudging his father the whole time. The other tradition was seen throughout the whole movie which was story telling. Thomas has a story for everything and he would tell it weather anyone wanted to hear it or not. In Native American tradition story telling was very common in an everyday life. The last tradition was the singing and chanting. The time we see this in the movie is after two men had taken Thomas and Victor's seats. They both start to chant forgetting aboput the bad situation. Chanting made them feel better. These traditons are very common in a Native American's life.
Mariela Alvarez
Victor and Thomas teach each other many lessons in this story, whether it was about becoming an Indian or a change in personality. Thomas is a very nice, generous and trusting Indian, which is considered the complete opposite of what an Indian should be according to Victor. So Victor assisted Thomas on becoming "more of an Indian." By doing this Victor tried changing Thomas' attire which caused him to take off his suit, hair braids, and big goofy grin he loves doing. Obviously this is a huge change so these changes didn't fully take effect, but he did take into consideration everything Victor told him to change. On the other hand Thomas got through to Victor's hard Indian personality and was able to change him a little. Before this long road trip Victor was a very arrogant and angry person who didn't treat others with respect. Throughout their trip Victor slowly became more understanding, like Thomas, even if it is just grinning like him. Victor still has parts of his mean personality, but it changed dramatically. Once he got home from the road trip instead of making his mother cry like usual he gave her a big warm hug. These two protagonists of the movie greatly changed each other with and without knowing what they have done.
ReplyDeleteThere are a few Native American traditions such as story telling and chanting presented in this film. These two traditions are extremely helpful to Victor and Thomas. Thomas loves story telling; he can go on and on telling his stories about past experiences he went through. It seems story telling for Thomas is a way to explain himself or even bond to another person. Chanting was able to help both Victor and Thomas which was use to bring up the mood from any type of situation given to them. These two used chanting to help bring up there spirit on the bus when the white men stole their seats. Even if they despised that man, once they started chanting it seemed that all their hatred went away.
Brandon Redic
Victor and Thomas both teach each other different aspects of the same culture. Victor wants to be the ideal tragic noble savage, and tells the friendly and jovial Thomas, in his words, Thomas "should be more stoic." Thomas teaches Victor the value of connecting with other human beings. Through storytelling, Thomas tries to connect with other people; throughout the trip, Thomas shows Victor how uniting storytelling can be.
ReplyDeleteThe Native American traditions of storytelling, magic, and spiritual connection helps Thomas and Victor throughout their journey. It is very apparent in Victor’s journey of personal discovery in himself, his culture, and his father. In their journey there have been “pushes” to help along the development of Victor; all of these pushes involve Native American tradition. Storytelling pushed him to question the truth and decide what truth is and if it really needed to be questioned. His father’s magic, pushed him to think about the difference of reality and fantasy, within his own life. Lastly his spiritual connection with Thomas held him together while everything was changing around him.
Dexter Fan
Period 3
In the film, Smoke Signals, Victor and Thomas offer each other insight and share their own perspective of how life should be lived. Victor is more of a serious and cynical individual, while his cousin Thomas, on the other hand, seems to be more hopeful and optimistic. Victor, who's childhood has defined the person he is now, shows to be untrusting. He is more of a realist, and notices the faults instead of bringing light to the positive traits. He teaches Thomas that you cannot trust anyone, although naturally, Thomas is very trusting. Victor has a stronger sense of pride compared to Thomas; it is seen when Victor teaches Thomas the ideal attitude of a Native American in his perspective. Thomas teaches Victor how to trust and accept what has happened in life. Victor learns the truth about his dad and forgives him.
ReplyDeleteThroughout the film, Native American traditions are presented and help Victor and Thomas in their journey. One tradition is the story-telling. Thomas is well known to be more of the story-teller and enjoys repeating the same stories over again. He tells stories of Victor's father quite often, although a lot of them aren't true. Stories passed along define how people live, and look to them for inspiration, hope, or even grief. Chanting is also being used in the film. While Thomas and Victor are in the bus, they are approached rudely by white men. Not too long after, Victor starts chanting about "John Wayne's teeth" and he seems to be more at ease when doing so. Lastly, another Native American tradition that is being presented is hair. Hair symbolizes strength, pride, and power among Native Americans. They believe to keep it long, as it generally shows how they have lived life. When one has committed a shameful deed, Native Americans cut it on their own. An example of hair cutting is when Arnold Joseph cuts off his hair after the fire incident, and when Victor cuts his hair after realizing the truth about his father.
Kelly Bufete
In the movie Smoke Signals, Victor and Thomas teach each other things about the world they didn’t know, and help each other realize their strengths and weaknesses. Although Victor is very street smart, he has issues trusting people, letting people get to know him, and being friendly. Thomas teaches him that it’s okay to let your guard down sometimes, and that he doesn’t always have to be mean and intimidating to others. Thomas, on the other hand, is too trusting and lets his guard down too easily, without thinking that people could possibly be lying or deceiving him. Thomas teaches him that people aren’t always what they seem, and that you have to be careful when you’re off the reservation and among people you don’t know.
ReplyDeleteIn the story, storytelling, the strength of hair, and chanting are represented. Storytelling helps Thomas because it lets him hold onto memories in his own way, and even if they’re not always completely true, it helps keep alive the memory of Victor’s dad and what their life used to be like. Although hair is a sign of strength, Victor gets stronger when he cuts off his own hair because it finally allows him to let go of all the anger and resentment he’s been holding towards his dad and people in general. Chanting helps both Victor and Thomas when they’re on the bus and their seats get taken. It shows that chanting can often help create strength and hope during times of repression or injustice.
Courtney Hutnick
1. Although Victor and Thomas are very different on the reservation, when they are outside of the reservation and among non-indian people,they have one major commonality that keeps them together. They are complete opposites but they both share the same home and traditions. Throughout their adventures, Victor and Thomas teach each other many life lessons. Thomas teaches Victor that he shouldn't be a negative person and to forgive his father. Victor teaches Thomas to be tougher and how to act like a "real indian"
ReplyDelete2. Victor and Thomas practiced some Native American traditions throughout the movie. They sang while they were sitting on the bus. They sang after they had a negative experience on the bus, this shows the importance of music in Native American society. There are also references to a powwow throughout the movie. Also Victor cuts his hair which is looked down upon in Native American society.
Harpreet Singh
1) What do Victor and Thomas teach each other in the story?
ReplyDelete-In the movie Smoke Signals, Victor and Thomas are very different from each other. Victor doesn't trust most people, and usually gets angry with Thomas. Also, he takes in a lot of pride in his Indian culture. Thomas is a very friendly person, and is very open to everyone. Victor teaches Thomas on how to be more "Indian", and also teaches him not to easily trust people so much. Thmoas, on the other hand, teaches Victor that it's okay to be open, and that's it's okay to accept the truth (about his father and everything else.)
2) What Native American traditions are presented in the film? How do these traditions help Victor and Thomas in the story?
-Some Native American traditions that are shown in the movie are singing on the bus, which is a big importance in most Native American cultures. Also, hair cutting is an important part in most cultures. When Victor cuts his hair after finding out that his father really still loved him, that showed that he was ashamed of himself.
In the story, Victor and Thomas teach each other many ways of their Native American traditions. Although they have different mind sets of their culture, they still learn from each other their native ways and how it will help them throughout the story. For Victor, he taught Thomas how to simply act like a man of the tribe. He showed him to have a straight face and attitude like a leader of a tribe would have. He also showed him how their ancestors dressed and how their hairs were just out. As for Thomas, he would always tell stories to Victor about anything and sometimes related to their Native traditions. Victor didn't realize this, but it was what their ancestors did and how their stories would be passed from generation to generation.
ReplyDeleteThere were many parts that showed Native American tradition but one was mainly on singing and storytelling. Around the middle of the movie, Thomas and Victor's seats were taken and were forced to move to a different area. Although they were upset, Victor brought up a song and eventually cheered them both up. This shows us that singing was a main part in Native culture in order to influence happiness during bad times or in any occasion.