Reservation Dogs is a groundbreaking new TV show that has taken audiences by storm with its unique storytelling, diverse cast, and fresh perspective on Indigenous culture. The show follows a group of four Indigenous teenagers in rural Oklahoma as they navigate life, friendship, and their own dreams and aspirations. With its mix of humor, drama, and social commentary, Reservation Dogs has quickly become a fan favorite.
If you’re a fan of Reservation Dogs and are looking for more TV shows that capture the same spirit and energy, look no further. In this article, we’ll explore some TV shows that share similarities with Reservation Dogs, along with 13 song examples that capture the essence of each show.
1. “Atlanta” (FX, 2016-present)
Created by and starring Donald Glover, “Atlanta” follows a young aspiring rapper and his cousin as they navigate the music scene in Atlanta. Like Reservation Dogs, “Atlanta” features a diverse cast, explores themes of race and identity, and blends humor with drama.
Song Example: “Redbone” by Childish Gambino
2. “Master of None” (Netflix, 2015-present)
Starring Aziz Ansari, “Master of None” follows a 30-year-old actor navigating life and love in New York City. The show tackles issues of race, gender, and relationships with humor and heart.
Song Example: “New York, I Love You But You’re Bringing Me Down” by LCD Soundsystem
3. “Ramy” (Hulu, 2019-present)
“Ramy” follows the life of a young Muslim man trying to balance his faith, culture, and identity in New Jersey. Like Reservation Dogs, the show offers a fresh perspective on a marginalized community and challenges stereotypes.
Song Example: “Lost Ones” by Lauryn Hill
4. “Insecure” (HBO, 2016-present)
Created by and starring Issa Rae, “Insecure” follows the friendship and romantic relationships of two Black women in Los Angeles. The show explores themes of race, identity, and self-discovery with humor and authenticity.
Song Example: “Feelin’ Myself” by Beyoncé ft. Nicki Minaj
5. “Dear White People” (Netflix, 2017-present)
Based on the film of the same name, “Dear White People” follows a group of Black students at a predominantly white Ivy League university as they navigate campus life and racial tensions. The show tackles issues of race, privilege, and activism with wit and intelligence.
Song Example: “Formation” by Beyoncé
6. “On My Block” (Netflix, 2018-present)
“On My Block” follows a group of high school friends in a predominantly Latinx neighborhood in Los Angeles as they navigate love, friendship, and growing up. The show blends humor, drama, and heart in its portrayal of teenage life.
Song Example: “Mi Gente” by J Balvin, Willy William
7. “Pen15” (Hulu, 2019-present)
“Pen15” follows two middle school girls in the early 2000s as they navigate the awkwardness of adolescence and the challenges of growing up. The show combines humor, nostalgia, and heart in its portrayal of friendship and coming-of-age.
Song Example: “Complicated” by Avril Lavigne
8. “Grown-ish” (Freeform, 2018-present)
A spin-off of the popular show “Black-ish,” “Grown-ish” follows the eldest daughter of the Johnson family as she navigates college life and adulthood. The show tackles issues of race, identity, and activism with humor and insight.
Song Example: “Truth Hurts” by Lizzo
9. “Sex Education” (Netflix, 2019-present)
“Sex Education” follows a socially awkward teenager who teams up with a rebellious classmate to start a sex therapy clinic at their high school. The show tackles issues of sex, relationships, and identity with humor and heart.
Song Example: “Boys” by Lizzo
10. “Euphoria” (HBO, 2019-present)
Starring Zendaya, “Euphoria” follows a group of high school students as they navigate love, drugs, and trauma in a suburban town. The show offers a raw and unflinching look at teenage life and the challenges of growing up.
Song Example: “Bury a Friend” by Billie Eilish
11. “The Chi” (Showtime, 2018-present)
Set in the South Side of Chicago, “The Chi” follows a group of residents as they navigate love, loss, and survival in a neighborhood plagued by violence and poverty. The show offers a nuanced portrayal of Black life in America.
Song Example: “Alright” by Kendrick Lamar
12. “Shrill” (Hulu, 2019-present)
Starring Aidy Bryant, “Shrill” follows a young woman as she navigates body positivity, self-acceptance, and relationships in Portland. The show offers a fresh and honest portrayal of womanhood and empowerment.
Song Example: “Bad Girls” by M.I.A.
13. “Never Have I Ever” (Netflix, 2020-present)
Created by Mindy Kaling, “Never Have I Ever” follows a first-generation Indian American teenager as she navigates high school, family, and romance. The show blends humor, heart, and cultural authenticity in its portrayal of teenage life.
Song Example: “Sit Still, Look Pretty” by Daya
These TV shows like Reservation Dogs offer diverse perspectives, authentic storytelling, and compelling characters that resonate with audiences. Whether you’re looking for humor, drama, or social commentary, these shows have something for everyone.
Common Questions:
1. Is Reservation Dogs based on a true story?
No, Reservation Dogs is a fictional TV show created by Sterlin Harjo and Taika Waititi.
2. Where is Reservation Dogs filmed?
Reservation Dogs is filmed in Okmulgee, Oklahoma, on the Muscogee (Creek) Nation reservation.
3. How many episodes are in the first season of Reservation Dogs?
The first season of Reservation Dogs consists of eight episodes.
4. Who are the main characters in Reservation Dogs?
The main characters in Reservation Dogs are Bear, Elora, Cheese, and Willie Jack.
5. What themes are explored in Reservation Dogs?
Reservation Dogs explores themes of friendship, identity, culture, and dreams.
6. What is the significance of the title “Reservation Dogs”?
The title “Reservation Dogs” refers to the group of teenagers in the show who are known for causing trouble and mischief on the reservation.
7. Is Reservation Dogs available to stream online?
Yes, Reservation Dogs is available to stream on FX on Hulu.
8. What makes Reservation Dogs different from other TV shows?
Reservation Dogs stands out for its Indigenous representation, unique storytelling, and humor.
9. How has Reservation Dogs been received by critics?
Reservation Dogs has received critical acclaim for its writing, performances, and representation.
10. Will there be a second season of Reservation Dogs?
Yes, a second season of Reservation Dogs has been confirmed by FX.
11. What awards has Reservation Dogs won?
Reservation Dogs has won several awards, including the Gotham Award for Breakthrough Series – Long Format.
12. What do viewers enjoy most about Reservation Dogs?
Viewers appreciate the authentic representation, humor, and relatable characters in Reservation Dogs.
13. What impact has Reservation Dogs had on Indigenous representation in media?
Reservation Dogs has been praised for its positive portrayal of Indigenous characters and culture, paving the way for more diverse storytelling.
In conclusion, TV shows like Reservation Dogs offer a refreshing perspective on marginalized communities, authentic storytelling, and compelling characters that resonate with audiences. Whether you’re a fan of humor, drama, or social commentary, these shows have something for everyone. From “Atlanta” to “Never Have I Ever,” each show captures the essence of diverse experiences and challenges stereotypes. As we continue to see more diverse representation in media, it’s important to celebrate and support these shows that bring untold stories to the forefront. Let’s embrace the different genres and voices that make television so dynamic and inclusive.