You are here:

The White Buffalo

Name: The White Buffalo
Director: J. Lee Thompson
Released: 1977
Duration: 97 min

Representation Score

1.0/10

Minimal

1977

Director

J. Lee Thompson

Runtime

97 minutes

Average Rating

No ratings yet

New Showbiz Analysis

The White Buffalo is a traditional Western that upholds genre clichés while avoiding progressive narrative disruptions. It maintains conventional gender and racial hierarchies, focusing on individualistic archetypes of the American frontier. The film’s structure adheres to the cinematic norms of its time, emphasizing masculine ability to act and personal struggle. It does not aim to challenge systemic structures or present diverse identities. Overall, the work functions as a character-driven adventure that reinforces, rather than challenges, the patriarchal and Anglo-centric storytelling typical of the genre.

Watch this, not that →

Category Breakdown

Does The White Buffalo have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film does not depict any LGBTQ+ identities or hint at non-traditional gender roles. The character interactions are based on traditional masculine stereotypes.

How does The White Buffalo portray gender?

Limited

The story emphasizes masculine traits and individual ability to act. Female characters are given limited roles that support traditional gender hierarchies.

How racially and ethnically diverse is The White Buffalo?

Limited

The cast is primarily white, with a scene featuring the historical figure Crazy Horse. However, this encounter serves more as a genre cliché than a deep exploration of indigenous identity.

How does The White Buffalo represent religion and culture?

Limited

The narrative follows typical Western themes centered around individual honor. It avoids addressing broader societal issues or institutional morality.

Does The White Buffalo include disability representation?

Minimal

The film does not address neurodivergence or physical disabilities. Characters are portrayed as physically strong and resilient.

Present on Screen

Features a notable encounter with the historical figure Crazy Horse.
Uses authentic Western locations from frontier towns to high country.

Limited or Absent

Does not provide depth in the portrayal of indigenous identity and ability to act.
Female characters are confined to minor, supporting roles.
The film lacks any representation of LGBTQ+ identities or queer subtext.
It does not explore disability or neurodivergence in its character development.

Official Synopsis

In this strange western version of Moby Dick, Wild Bill Hickok hunts a white buffalo he has seen in a dream. Hickok moves through a variety of uniquely authentic western locations - dim, filthy, makeshift taverns; freezing, slaughterhouse-like frontier towns and beautifully desolate high country - before improbably teaming up with a young Crazy Horse to pursue the creature.

How are these scores produced? →