Review of Whale Rider (2003) by Vicky J — 30 Mar 2008

It is difficult to find a film that makes you feel sad and happy at the same time, but 'Whale Rider' achieves this without conflicting ideals, a soppy climax or manipulating emotions. The story follows a young Maori girl fulfilling her role as chief and heir, despite her tribes misgivings and opposition, but this film doesn't adopt the sentimental follow-your-dream convention so predominant in cinema.

Compared to most films about teenagers, it avoids cliche and stupidity and instead opting for observation and realism. The director creates authenticity in the lives of a minority culture, and the beautiful cinematography entrances and impresses with its level of detail and relevance.

Everything about the film is delivered in an original way; In a particular school concert scene, what we expect to happen never materialises, and the film follows a completely different path that amazes us with its dare yet moving nature.

Keisha Castle Hughes, the youngest person to ever be nominated for the Best Actress Oscar, is wonderful as Pai, a character who, like all human beings has her faults, but clearly wants to do the right thing, even knowing how difficult it will be to overcome centuries of tradition and her grandfather's love.

You may think Hughes performance isn't worthy at first, but when the previously mentioned scene arrives, she is astoundingly real and impressive. 'Whale Rider' is a quiet and effective fable about reaching for your destiny, even if it hurts those you love, and Niki Caro captures this message with strong human depth, creating a moving, sad, yet ultimately uplifting picture.