Meaning: The quote "Kevin Costner has feathers in his hair and feathers in his head. The Indians should have called him 'Plays with Camera.'" is a witty and critical remark made by renowned film critic Pauline Kael. It is a play on the title of the movie "Dances with Wolves," in which Costner starred and directed. The quote reflects Kael's opinion on Costner's approach to filmmaking and his portrayal of Native American culture in the movie.

In "Dances with Wolves," Kevin Costner plays the character of Lieutenant John Dunbar, a Union Army officer who befriends a tribe of Lakota Sioux Indians. The film explores the relationship between Dunbar and the Sioux people, and the impact of white settlement on Native American communities. Costner's portrayal of Dunbar is central to the film's narrative, and his interactions with the Sioux are a focal point of the story.

Pauline Kael's quote is a satirical commentary on Costner's involvement in the film and his representation of Native American culture. The mention of "feathers in his hair and feathers in his head" is a reference to the stereotypical image of Native Americans wearing feathers, and it suggests that Costner's understanding and portrayal of Native American culture may lack authenticity or depth. The phrase "Plays with Camera" is a clever twist on the name "Dances with Wolves," implying that Costner's focus may have been more on the technical aspects of filmmaking rather than on accurately depicting the culture and history of the Sioux people.

Pauline Kael was known for her incisive and often controversial film reviews, and her comment on "Dances with Wolves" reflects her critical assessment of the film and its portrayal of Native American characters. Kael was known for her ability to cut through the hype surrounding popular movies and provide a thought-provoking analysis of their artistic and cultural significance. In this case, her remark on Kevin Costner's performance and the film's treatment of Native American culture is a reflection of her keen observation and willingness to challenge conventional wisdom in the world of cinema.

"Dances with Wolves" received widespread acclaim and won seven Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Director for Kevin Costner. However, the film also faced criticism for its romanticized portrayal of Native American life and its portrayal of white saviorism. Kael's quote can be seen as part of a broader conversation about the representation of Indigenous peoples in mainstream media and the responsibility of filmmakers to accurately and respectfully depict their stories and traditions.

In conclusion, Pauline Kael's quote "Kevin Costner has feathers in his hair and feathers in his head. The Indians should have called him 'Plays with Camera.'" offers a provocative and humorous critique of Kevin Costner's role in "Dances with Wolves" and the film's treatment of Native American culture. It is a reminder of the ongoing importance of thoughtful and respectful representation of marginalized communities in cinema and the need for critical engagement with popular narratives.