Review of Whale Rider (2003) by Joshua H — 21 Apr 2012

I found this movie to be quite stunning, not only visually, but emotionally, as well. It was quite touching and moving, and I found myself very much connected to the lead actress, Pai. Learning about indigenous cultures and their struggles to maintain their traditions and morals in an ever-changing modern world really helped me to see the depth of this film. For me, the inner turmoil of the Maori tribe that is depicted on screen is the result of them trying to hold on tightly to the foundation that their ancestors built. I think there is meant to be a subdued understanding that modern ways-of-life are gradually taking hold of their own private society. The only things you see in the film to suggest this is the music blaring from a stereo and the graphics on the clothes of the children. Basically, this is telling us that there is a world outside of the Maori civilization that is threatening to take over if they are not able to fight it off.

The young actress, Keshia Castle-Hughes, gave an Oscar-worthy performance as Pai, a young Maori girl whose mother and twin brother died during birth, and whose father left her with her grandparents so that he could venture out on business. Pai's grandfather, Koro, is very resentful of the fact that there is no male heir to take his place as leader of his Maori community. To remedy the situation, he starts a school to teach the young boys of the community the ways of the Maori. Pai tries to take part in the education, but is harshly refused because she is a girl. Pai never gives up the fight for equality, and is encouraged by her loving grandmother. Although her grandfather also loves her very much, he is unable to see past her gender to see that she does, indeed, possess the perfect leadership qualities he has been searching for.

I watched this movie as an assignment for class, but I am taking much more away from it than that. It really opened my eyes to the differences between my modern world and the modern world of indigenous tribes. I give this film two big thumbs up and I recommend it to everyone.