Review of Whale Rider (2003) by Rob G — 23 Aug 2012

I think this film is built on the question that most tribes end up asking themselves: How do we hold onto our cultural identity in this modern world? Are our traditions strong enough to last? Rawiri Paratene plays the traditionalist grandfather who believes, staunchly, the ways his grandfather taught him. So much so that he won't even regard his granddaughter as proper heir to be leader of the tribe. His intentions are understandable: he feels he must preserve and pass on these traditions in a world that isn't friendly to them. What he misses is that our main character, his granddaughter, Paikea has everything he desires of a leader...if only he would give her a chance.

This film is absolutely beautiful, visually and structurally. A lot of love, passion and respect for the Maori culture was put into this film.The acting is superb from everyone, but Keisha Castle-Hughes and Rawiri Paratene shine in this film. For her age during this shoot, Keisha is not an irritating child actress...if anything she deserved her nomination for best actress at the 2004 Academy Awards.

I HIGHLY recommend this film to anyone who wants an uplifting story.