The Historical-Drama Film: The New World

The historical-drama film, “The New World” portrays the establishment of the Jamestown, Virginia, settlement. The film also showcases the historical figures Captain John Smith, the Englishman John Rolfe, and Pocahontas of the Powatan Native American tribe. The movie has portrayed some well-known myths such as the romantic relationship between Pocahontas and John Smith, Pocahontas’ name, and her age when she first met Captain Smith. Films tend to distort historical accuracy in order to make history “entertaining”, which does more harm than good since people don’t tend to research historical events.

Contrary to popular belief, John Smith did not pursue a romantic relationship with Pocahontas. The movie portrayed their relationship as lovers rather than friends. In John Smith’s journal he depicts Pocahontas “befriending him” and “assisting the starving Jamestown colony” countless times (Biography.com Editors). The film also portrayed how Pocahontas saved John from being killed by her father, which is one thing the movie portrayed accurately. In Smith’s journal he states how “he was brought in front of Chief Powhatan, two large stones were placed on the ground, his head was forced upon them, and a warrior raised a club to smash in his brains” (Morenus). Before Smith could be killed, Pocahontas “rushed in and placed her

The “forbidden romance” between Pocahontas, the beloved daughter of the Chief of the Powatan Native American tribe, and John Smith, the Englishman, appeals to people because they see two individuals who are love-struck, but live in two completely different worlds. Many people tend to like these types of plots because they know that “forbidden romances” tend to end badly and, folks like the adventure and passion behind it. It’s simply something they can only think about in their dreams and on the movie