Movie: Whale Rider
Starring Keisha Castle-Hughes, Rawiri Paratene
Written and Directed by Niki Caro; Music by Lisa Gerard
(South Pacific Films)
Reviewed by Rusty Pipes

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Whale Rider is a delightfully powerful tale of a Maori community in New Zealand struggling to preserve their traditions in a modern world. Based on the book by Witi Imihaera, the film's name comes from the central myth of the Maoris, that of the hero Paikea, who rode on the back of a whale to New Zealand. Beautifully shot by director and writer Niki Caro on location on the northeastern coast of New Zealand - obviously in real peoples' homes and well played by actors who obviously have Maori blood - Whale Rider is a completely compelling story.

Newcomer Keisha Castle-Hughes plays Pai, a young Maori girl who's been raised by her grandfather while her father was away in Europe. She loves the old ways but tradition demands that her grandfather must train a boy as the next chief and Pai must struggle to win the trust of her grandfather and the rest of the tribe. Castle-Hughes is amazing in her sincerity and natural feel for the part. As Pai, when she gives the speech about her grandfather in her school play, she is utterly convincing. I fully expect to see her in other productions. Rawiri Paratene also gives us a touchingly genuine performance as her grandfather Koro, who defends the Maori traditions so tenaciously.

The beauty of the story and the locations is underpinned by a terrific score by Lisa Gerrard, formerly of Dead Can Dance and also known for her work on Gladiator. All told, it's no wonder that Niki Caro's Whale Rider has won a passel of awards at film festivals around the world.

The Skinny:
Am I glad I saw the film? Definitely
Would I go to see it again? Yes and I'll take the kids next time.

© 2003 - Rusty Pipes