In an industry-first, Atlanta now houses Studio of the Americas, the inaugural Native American-owned television and movie studio, situated within the bounds of Tyler Perry Studios. This venture not only intends to churn out films and TV shows that embody Native American narratives but also aims to squarely place Native Americans in the spotlight, via roles both in front of and behind the camera. According to FOX 5 Atlanta, the studio's agenda is to enhance Indigenous representation in media, ensuring that the voices and issues of tribal communities are heard and understood.
With a commendable docket of 15 feature films and streaming projects already queuing up, the studio has committed to not only entertain but also to heal and empower through its art. Clifton Chippewa, Chairman and Co-Founder, poignantly remarked to Georgia Entertainment News, "Our mission is to preserve and share the stories of Native American culture in a way that is both entertaining and meaningful."
More than just a content production house, Studio of the Americas eagerly embraces an educational role. It has allied with the Georgia Film Academy to offer specialized internships and training programs aimed particularly at Native American students. Chippewa told FOX 5 Atlanta that such an opportunity for Native students, possibly working alongside African American students, would be "wonderful culturally."
Key projects spotlighted by the studio include the thrilling "Crooked Tree," adapted from Robert Wilson's award-winning novel, and the documentary "Smoke Alarm," voiced by actor Eugene Brave Rock. Brave Rock has praised the studio's vision, telling Georgia Entertainment News, "Their mission to cultivate emerging voices and honor cultural narratives is truly inspiring. And the stories they tell are flat out block-buster entertainment." Echoing this sentiment was Philip Viles, former Chief Justice of the Cherokee Supreme Court, who highlighted the studio's ability to deliver suspenseful storytelling while treating Native beliefs with due respect.
Besides its educational initiatives, Studio of the Americas has also announced plans for a film festival to showcase Indigenous talent and forthcoming projects. This will undeniably grant Native American artists a much-needed platform to broadcast their stories on a world stage, marking a significant leap in the push for diversity and inclusion in the entertainment sector. FOX 5 Atlanta notes the importance of this effort and its potential to shape the future of Indigenous storytelling.
