Whale Rider Movie
Storyline
TAGLINES
One young girl dared to confront the past, change the present and determine the future
In the ways of the Ancients, she found a hope for the future
On the east coast of New Zealand, the Whangara people believe their presence there dates back a thousand years or more to a single ancestor, Paikea, who escaped death when his canoe capsized by riding to shore on the back of a whale. From then on, Whangara chiefs, always the first-born, always male, have been considered Paikea's direct descendants. Pai, an 11-year-old girl in a patriarchal New Zealand tribe, believes she is destined to be the new chief. But her grandfather Koro is bound by tradition to pick a male leader. Pai loves Koro more than anyone in the world, but she must fight him and a thousand years of tradition to fulfill her destiny.
| Cliff Curtis | Porourangi |
| Keisha Castle-Hughes | Paikea |
| Rawiri Paratene | Koro |
| Vicky Haughton | Nanny Flowers |
| Grant Roa | Uncle Rawiri |
| Mana Taumaunu | Hemi |
| Rachel House | Shilo |
| Taungaroa Emile | Willie |
| Tammy Davis | Dog |
| Mabel Wharekawa | Maka |
| Rawinia Clarke | Miro |
| Tahei Simpson | Miss Parata |
| Roi Taimana | Hemi's Dad |
| Elizabeth Skeen | Rehua |
| Tyronne White | Jake |
| Niki Caro |
7.80 out of 10 (15198 votes)
Visitor Reviews
Includes Summary (Spoiler) and Review
posted on 25 Aug 2009The movie "Whale Rider' is an inspiring story about a girl, Pai, that has to fight tradition to take her rightful place as the new chief of her tribe, the Mairo of New Zealand. She has to buck thousands of years of tradition, and her own grandfather, because he is unable to overcome what he believes. He cannot look past the tradition of the leader being a male to see that Pai is the one that has been chosen by the ancestors. Koro is very disappointed when his son's wife gives birth to twins, but only Pai, the girl baby survives, while her twin brother and mother die. He sees this as a fateful sign for his tribe. When in reality she is the blessing that he has been waiting for. He is unable to stop and look at the reality because he lives with the blinders of tradition. Pai has to sneak behind his back, with the help of her grandmother and uncle to learn the traditions and take the tests that are required to become Chief. It all comes very easy to her. Koro is very upset when he catches her learning the sacred skills. He does not see that she is special, chosen, he only sees that she is a female and is messing with the traditions. He thinks she is bringing bad luck to the tribe by doing this. In one scene, he tries to tell Pai to go sit in the back behind the boys, but she will not, so he sends her away. I was so proud of her for holding her ground and not moving to the back row, even if it meant that she had to go. She is drawn to learn the lessons, and she doesn't even let the patriarchal head of the tribe, her own grandfather, keeps her from answering the call of the ancestors. This movie could be considered a good example of media that resists patriarchal gender socialization for our second essay.I feel Koro probably knows that Pai is the one, but he is unable and unwilling to accept that the chief would be a girl. For thousands of years the leader has been a first born son, there has never been a female chief. The more that he sees this in her, the more he turns his back on her for fear that she is the cause of the bad luck, not the hope for the future.Her grandmother, Flowers, is a good role model for Pai because she holds her place with Koro. She probably knew as well that Pai was special, having survived the birth when both her mother and brother did not. Her grandmother supported her and stood up for her with Koro. She also told her that she could learn some of the traditions from her uncle. This shows that there is change taking place within the tribal women in previous generations. In these types of changes, some generations do not make a noticeable difference, then another one will make a great jump forward. It seems that it takes many years and generations for these types of changes to be completed. It will still be a lot longer before women are completely considered equal. I hope we like it that way. Discrimination of all types is slow to change, although it does come about. The time it took to build one tradition can be the amount of time it takes to change that same tradition. When the whales beach themselves, I cannot avoid seeing the parallel here of the whales following their leader onto the beach, toward hopelessness, as his tribe had done in their lives under Koro. Then when Pai rides the whale out to sea and the others follow, it parallels the tribe following Pai back into better times, a rebirth after near death for both the whales, Pai, and the tribe.Koro must almost lose Pai to realize that things have changed and a girl is the leader, not a boy. The tradition is so deep that it takes something really big to change it. It was very nice to see, and take my daughter to, a film where a girl is the focus. She fulfills her destiny. There is no failure, Pai is the hero. I hope every child sees this film at some point. It should be required in school for everyone. I think the message of the film is so positive, despite a few tears that must be shed when Pai reads her speech and again when she rides the whale. This film can teach compassion for equality among boys and girls, without the boys even knowing that they are learning that gender roles have changed. Whale Rider is full of many positive messages for girls and women.
The film is a delight...
posted on 23 Aug 2009Based on the best-selling novel by Witi Ihimaera, this 2003 film from CLASS ACTION director Niki Caro tells the compelling story of a young New Zealand girl's struggle against ancient Maori tradition to prove that she is worthy to be the next leader of her tribe.12-year-old Paikea is the survivor of twins born to the son of the tribal leader Koro, her brother having died at birth. Her brother would have automatically been chosen as the next tribal leader, being the first-born son according to Maori tribal lore, Pai however, being female, is denied this honour. Koro, her grandfather, decides to train the young boys of the village to see if another leader can be found. Pai tries to join these sessions but is barred because of her sex. She trains in the old tribal ways anyway, aided by her wayward Uncle. Koro's search for a new leader proves fruitless and when a school of whales gets stranded on the beach he sees this an omen prophesying the impending doom of the tribe. Pai's affinity with these creatures finally proves to Koro that she really is destined to be the next leader of his people.The film is a delight, immersing you in the contemporary Maori world and culture, and Keisha Castle-Hughes is stunning and very moving in her portrayal of Pai. Also noteworthy is Rawiri Paratene's role as the grumpy grandfather Koro. He clearly loves Pai, shown by his daily escorting her to and from school on the cross bar of his bicycle. She too adores him and is desperate to win his approval, and the strain that her apparent rebellion against tribal traditions places on their relationship is beautifully handled.There is no over-sentimentality in this film. The island is actually quite a bleak locale, and the troubled relationships between the characters, troubles caused by the conflict between tradition and changing times are realistically dramatised.Highly recommended.
Boring film
posted on 07 Aug 2009I could not get past the first 30 mins. I really tried, especially after reading all of the outstanding reviews of this film, I thought surely it would be better. I understand the referral as an art-house film. My time is too precious to waste on a film that is as pedantic and plodding as this one. Even if the ending is promised to be good, that alone is no excuse for boring character development. The film is proof that cinematography alone does not make a good movie. A dull & boring movie, all I could do to stay awake.
Take a breath from Maoris!
posted on 03 Aug 2009absolutely one of my favorite. I like the Maori culture and this artwork is a deep diving to come to know this extraordinary,distinctive and nice ethnic group (another brilliant Maori film "Once were warriors"). Unique colorful pictures and the film music always take effect to all of my sensory organs. The New Zealander Pitch Black act project (dub electronic) delivered a really good song. Acting of Keisha Castle-Hughes(Pai) and Rawiri Paratene(Koro) are brilliant. The nicest part of the film when Koro and Pai are cycle between the amazing green and blue landscape and the background brilliant music compose a marvelous mix. The storyline is very interesting through the present this wonderful life of Maoris. It"s a sweet harmony and a miracle!
The Film of the decade!!!!!!!!!!!!
posted on 20 Jul 2009If I was only to see one film in my life time this would be the one I would want to see. It was a beautiful and moving experience from beginning to end. Whale Rider tells the story of Pai (Keisha Castle-Hughes) and her battle to win her Grandfather's respect. The story is told so simply, yet invokes emotions seldom experienced in film. There is not a false moment as Pai struggles to prove to her Grandfather (Rawiri Paratene) what is so obvious to the rest of village.Keisha Castle-Hughes is a gem and gives a polished and heart wrenching performance. Casting director Diana Rowan obviously has an eye for brilliant kids (she cast Anna Paquin in her debut role in the Piano). You cry when Pai cries, laughs when she is happy and feel her pain when she is constantly brushed aside by her Grandfather. Keisha has something special that you don't see in "Hollywood Kids." This is her first film and she has none of the false mannerisms of the stage school children. She is natural, as though she isn't acting and you should see her cry! This kid can act, her passion and sincerity while crying is superior to any adult star I've seen. Rawiri Paratene is also excellent in his role of Koro, a kind man who unfortunately is ruled by the old traditions.The ways of the Maori are shown clearly and without over-dramatisation or misinformation. The ancient Maori myth of Paikea arriving in New Zealand on the back of whale is included in a fascinating manner and is referred to often in the film.People of any country, culture, age, gender and religion could relate to this story about a society trying to hold on to the old ways and traditions while entering a new age. I would strongly recommend this film to anyone with a heart - it's a heart warming, uplifting experience. Though I must say there are a lot of tears along the way - when I went the cinema was filled with sniffles and sobs!!
An unusual and excellent film
posted on 20 Jul 2009Ask me three weeks ago what the Maori tribe is and I would have given you a blank Homer Simpson look. After seeing Niki Caro's beautiful film 'Whale Rider', I not only knew about this interesting little culture, but I knew I had just viewed a small masterpiece. A young Maori girl, Paikea (Keisha Castle-Hughes) and her twin brother are born, and their father, Porourangi (Cliff Curtis) is the heir apparent to be the chief of their tribe, so all attention is on the first-born male child. Unfortunately, the male child dies during childbirth along with his mother, leaving Paikea as the sole child. Paikea's grandfather Koro (Rawiri Paratene) refuses to acknowledge her, and even tries to talk his son into looking for someone else to marry and father a son with while he is grieving in the hospital hallway. This is how Paikea's life begins, and we next see her as a young pre-adolescent, living with her grandparents now, as her father has moved to Europe to seek his fortune as an artist. Her grandfather has softened toward her, but still looks on her as a disappointment, but the have a decent enough relationship, and she and her grandmother are close. When she learns the legend of the 'Whale Rider', and learns about the role her brother would have played in the tribe she becomes determined to buck all convention and take his place.Obviously, the story is complicated and the strong emotions that are pervasive throughout the film only make it more so. The clear conflict that Koro is in, trying to find the new chief of the tribe is unwavering to the point of hurting everyone around him and making himself sick weighs most heavily on Paikea, who in reality is just an 11 year old girl who wants her grandfather to love her, but is also determined to be something she knows she traditionally can't be. I have rarely witnessed a scene that is more painful than the one in which Paikea, having been recognized for excellence in her school, is giving a speech she dedicated to her grandfather at a school recital, and, while staring at his empty chair, can barely speak because her pain and sorrow is so great. Caro's screenplay and film are absolutely beautiful. I found myself riveted from the beginning, as the story unfolds itself to be a sort of fable, until the very end. The cinematography, music and script are fantastic. The most amazing thing about the film however is the performance of Keisha Castle-Hughes, who was nominated for her role in this film. I remember being surprised at this year's awards when I saw this little girl (who refreshingly looked and dressed like a little girl) being nominated for best lead actress. Her performance in 'Whale Rider' is astonishingly good, almost frighteningly so. Some may not like 'Whale Rider' because it is truly original, and definitely not a mainstream film, but I very highly recommend giving it a try. It truly was an incredible film to experience. 8/10Shelly
Masterpiece Extraordinaire
posted on 26 Jun 2009Whale Rider is one of those rare gems that rejuvenates one's interest in going out to the movies. Sure, Whale Rider will be out on DVD one day soon, but seeing this movie in a theatre on the wide screen is the best way to witness the magnificent cinematography of the New Zealand coast, the wonderful musical score that perfectly echos the images as well as the terrific dramatic performances in one the best movies ever made - an instant classic.To see Whale Rider (multiple times) is to experience the most astonishing performance by an child actress or any actress in the history of cinema. Keisha Castle-Hughes gives an outstanding, emotional powerhouse of an acting turn in this wonderful motion picture. She demonstrates more expression and acting range than most high-priced Hollywood wannabe actresses. This beautiful young lady will be nominated for Best Supporting Actress (as a child actor - even though she was the lead) by the Academy and who knows? If the cards fall in Keisha's favor - an Oscar!
Whale Rider is Over Rated
posted on 18 Jun 2009Everybody keeps saying that the Whale Rider is the best thing since sliced bread. However, I went to see this film (I was forced) and I did not agree with this general opinion. The movie spends almost every second of its running time ramming its pro-Feminist rhetoric down the throats of viewers. I resent being told what to think. Please do not think that I am a person that hates this film because its there. I saw the film "The Straight Story", which was also one persons struggle on a journey, and I thought that it was MUCH better than this film.In closing, Whale Rider is as good as the hype says. I am not the only person that didn't like this film.
What a beautiful movie
posted on 16 Jun 2009It's easy to see how this movie won in Sundance and The Toronto Film Fest for People's Choice. It is simply a stunningly beautiful movie.The lead actress, Keisha Castle-Hughes is amazing for a first time actress. Her quiet stubborness as she refuses to let go of the pull to learn about her culture, ignoring the fact that it taboo to her, as a female. Not to mention her breakdown, as she bravely tries to finish her dedication to her absent grandfather. She is one of the top 5 child actors who could have pulled off such a powerful scene. As a matter of fact, I have trouble finding an adult actress who would have acted that scene with such power.I hope, when the Oscars roll around, they remember this powerful little girl, and at minimum, give her the nod of approval that she deserves.
One of the best movies I've seen.
posted on 10 Jun 2009This is, quite simply, one of the best movies I've seen. It is a fantastic example of what indigenous film-making is capable of. Maori culture seems to have an innate knack for expressing themselves in this way. While Once Were Warriors offers a significantly different view into the lives of indigenous New Zealanders the emotional roller coaster ride is nevertheless the same. One can't help but feel as though they know the characters in the movie and thus they are intimately tied in to what happens to them throughout. Well done!
Very, very good
posted on 29 Apr 2009An excellant movie, and Castle-Hughes was superb. For a young lady, she displayed a nice range of emotions and sincerity of character. And her grandfather was very believable too as a man trapped by history and unable to see tomorrow. I watched this movie back-to-back with "Lost in Translation", and in my opinion, there is no comparison. "Whale Rider" was much more worthy of being nominated for Best Picture, and Castle-Hughes's performance had a lot more depth than Bill Murray's. Also, even though this is a movie about New Zealand's tribal heritage, it could just as well represent many small cities all across America that are seeing a steady exodus of their young people. Highly recommended.
A triumph of mystique, art and non-cliche storytelling.
posted on 23 Apr 2009Niki Caro's "Whale Rider" is beautifully written and directed motion picture. It captures conflict on many levels - the ancient ways vs. the modern, familial love vs. tradition and female empowerment vs. male patriarchy. The film contains lyrical cinematography, and the passion for the project is palpable and evident in each shot. This is visual storytelling at its finest.The heart and soul of the movie lies in the protagonist, played by startling newcomer Keisha Castle-Hughes, age 12. Her performance is subtle, yet she conveys so much compassion and emotion in every scene it is impossible not to empathize and root for her. Even in heartripping scenes when her grandfather Koro admonishes her, making it clear that "everything went wrong" when she was born, she never relinquishes her love for him. She even defends him because she so passionately believes in the ancient ways, and in her view he is only doing his duty... even in his cruelest moments. The climax and conclusion of this film never caters to obligatory emotional manipulation. The soundtrack is a character in itself - Lisa Gerrard's score is ethereal and haunting, simultaneously evoking the magical spirit of whalesong and the Maori tribal culture. A great film, truly deserving of all the superlatives bestowed on it.
Beautiful!
posted on 21 Apr 2009I waited a whole year to watch this movie but it never came out in the cinemas. I've got nothing to complain though coz the wait is really worthwhile. The storyline is simple enough but Keisha Castle-Hughes' performance makes it poignant and throat clunching. She did it with all heart and soul and she did it beautifully. An Oscar nomination well deserved but we know who is going to win, don't we?!Anyways, the cinematography provided for a really gorgeous setting and helped set the movie in place. Someone here said that the cultural theme was a bit too much but I disagree. The Maoris' struggle to keep their customs and traditions alive are well documented and it may have been the sole plot and purpose of this movie in this movie but it's just one of their ways of keeping their spirits alive and if it provides for good art, why not?!A spectacular piece of work deservedly of all its accolades.
This was an excellent movie with great insights into pride and traditions and how they impact our lives today.
posted on 17 Apr 2009A beautiful, emotional, and powerful movie. The director allows the characters to develop and keeps us moving to a very powerful and emotion packed ending. No matter how hard I tried not to cry, I couldn't help but cry! Great movie, great acting, and great directing.
A masterpiece
posted on 17 Apr 2009I just got to see this movie. It is one of the best films I have seen.It is magical...heart warming...a piece of artwork. It has a wonderful plot of love, customs, family, and trying to be as good as your family want and still being yourself.I'd recommend this movie to anyone.
Superb, sustains multiple viewings.
posted on 31 Aug 2009For people who need every nuance spelled out, this movie might be too difficult. But between my 7 year old daughter and myself at 43, this movie has enough depth in content to have captured the attention of both of us. In our case, we had to watch it a second time just to catch all the dialog since we are not versed in the New Zealand accent. But we have since watched it many more times.First, the script is not full of dialog. A picture, a shrug or a facial expression paints a thousand words. The relationship between granddaughter and grandfather is chronicled in small incidents which fully describe as words can not just how complex is the world we live in and our relationships within that world.The support cast is equally well delineated. The grandmother and her card-playing cronies, the good-natured adult brother who appears the buffoon but is not, the oldest brother working on his own demons and nightmares; even one schoolmate is developed as both antagonist and friend also trying to contend with his own dramas.For my daughter, the heroine and girl child is a wonderful role model of strength and stubbornness in a male dominated world.This movie covers many modern concepts in timeless fashion: dysfunctional family behavior, communion with nature, the fight for cultural survival (in this case the native Maori culture of New Zealand), and the concept that in the end goodness can prevail and even old dogs can learn new tricks.And finally it includes the magic of believing in something greater than oneself. The world is not perfect, but within the framework of community, we can pull together and be better for it. This movie stands out.