Mel Gibson has been given a huge boost as he prepares to release his latest movie epic Apocalypto later this month--Native American Indians love the film.

The film, which chronicles the end of the ancient Mayan civilization, has been praised by Indian leaders because Gibson successfully chose to cast indigenous actors for the project.

Gibson and his casting team found people from the Yucatan, Mexico City, Oaxaca, Xalapa, Veracruz and other areas to star in his ambitious new film, which is told in the ancient Mayan tongue with subtitles.

And after screening the movie to Native American community groups on Friday, Gibson has been hailed a hero to the indigenous people of America.

Chickasaw Nation Governor Bill Anoatubby leads the praise, stating, "It serves as an inspiration to Native American actors who aspire to perform relevant roles in the film industry."

"It is very important to note that Mr. Gibson has gone to great lengths to cast indigenous people in this film."