#EarthDay with co-directors Rachel McDonald (raemcdonald) and Peter Goetz (backroads.creative)
Set against the sweeping landscape of the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation, Dancing Warrior follows a group of Lakota teens who find purpose, identity, and belonging through the traditional sport of Indian Relay horse racing. Amid the challenges of life on the reservation, the team comes together through competition, culture, and a deep connection to the land and their horses. Their story is one of resilience and community, where tradition becomes a source of strength and a path forward.
“Working on Dancing Warrior was one of the most meaningful experiences of my career,” shares director Rachel McDonald. “There was such warmth, generosity, and openness from the young people and families who trusted us with their stories. Spending time with the Dancing Warrior team left a lasting mark on me. These young Native athletes carried themselves with a resilience, wisdom, and strength far beyond their ...