Dances With Wolves is a 1990 epic western film directed and produced by Kevin Costner. The film stars Costner himself as Lieutenant John J. Dunbar, a Union Army officer who is sent to a remote frontier outpost on the Western Plains. It also stars Mary McDonnell as Stands With A Fist, with Graham Greene, and Rodney A. Grant in supporting roles.
The story takes place in the midst of the American Civil War, and explores the conflict between the white settlers and the Native American tribes in the Great Plains region. Along the way, Dunbar builds a relationship with the Lakota Sioux, becoming accepted as a member of their tribe and eventually fighting alongside them against the US Army.
The extended version of the film runs for almost four hours and adds several scenes that were not included in the original theatrical release. These scenes provide more depth to the characters and further develop the themes explored in the film.
One of the major differences between the extended and theatrical versions of Dances With Wolves is the extended version's greater emphasis on the relationship between Dunbar and Stands With A Fist. In the extended version, their bond is explored more in-depth and several additional scenes show the growth of their relationship. This leads to a more powerful and emotionally satisfying conclusion to their story.
Another key addition to the extended version is the inclusion of a subplot involving a Pawnee raid on the Sioux village. This subplot adds more tension and drama to the film's climax and showcases the violence and hardship faced by the Native American tribes during this time period.
The extended version also includes more scenes featuring the supporting characters, such as Wind In His Hair, played by Rodney A. Grant. These scenes add depth to the characters and highlight the bonds of friendship and loyalty that develop between them.
Overall, the extended version of Dances With Wolves is a more complete and satisfying version of the film. It adds more depth to the characters, expands on the themes explored in the movie, and provides a more emotionally satisfying conclusion. Whether you're a fan of the original theatrical release or a newcomer to the film, the extended version is well worth watching.
Dances With Wolves Extended Version is a 1990 drama with a runtime of 3 hours and 53 minutes.