Review of Whale Rider (2003) by Zero X — 22 Feb 2008

Call me jaded, but I came in expecting a new take on the old theme of tradition vs. the new generation. Aside from the interesting glimpses at Maori culture, there is nothing groundbreaking in this recap of Deborah Sampson, Mulan, and others who challenged gender restrictions. In addition, Lisa Gerrard's underwhelming soundtrack was a stark contrast to her haunting performance in Black Hawk Down.

With that said, this is a decent family movie. Although it is predictable to the end, this film does offer a peek at the subtle devastation wrought in several colonized cultures. Paikea's inevitable triumph and acceptance was overshadowed by the heartache of lost children in dire need of a caring role model. Whale Rider is a good reminder of the nigh inescapable generational sins that would strangle potential if there is no intervention.