Whale Rider: A Movie Review
Whale Rider is a 2002 New Zealand drama film written and directed by Niki Caro. Based on the 1987 novel The Whale Rider by Witi Ihimaera, the film stars Keisha Castle-Hughes as Kahu Paikea Apirana, a twelve-year-old Māori girl whose ambition is to become the chief of the tribe. Her koro Apirana believes that this is a role reserved for males only.
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The film was a coproduction between New Zealand and Germany. It was shot on location in Whangara, the setting of the novel. The world premiere was on 9 September 2002, at the Toronto International Film Festival.
The film received critical acclaim upon its release. At age 13, Keisha Castle-Hughes became the youngest nominee for the Academy Award for Best Actress before she was surpassed by Quvenzhané Wallis, at age 9, for Beasts of the Southern Wild, in 2012, less than a decade later. The film earned $41.4 million on a NZ$ 9,235,000 budget. In 2005, the film was named on the BFI List of the 50 Films You Should See By Whale Rider: A Movie Review
Whale Rider is a 2002 New Zealand drama film written and directed by Niki Caro. Based on the 1987 novel The Whale Rider by Witi Ihimaera, the film stars Keisha Castle-Hughes as Kahu Paikea Apirana, a twelve-year-old Māori girl whose ambition is to become the chief of the tribe. Her koro Apirana believes that this is a role reserved for males only.
The film was a coproduction between New Zealand and Germany. It was shot on location in Whangara, the setting of the novel. The world premiere was on 9 September 2002, at the Toronto International Film Festival.
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The film received critical acclaim upon its release. At age 13, Keisha Castle-Hughes became the youngest nominee for the Academy Award for Best Actress before she was surpassed by Quvenzhané Wallis, at age 9, for Beasts of the Southern Wild, in 2012, less than a decade later. The film earned $41.4 million on a NZ$ 9,235,000 budget. In 2005, the film was named on the BFI List of the 50 Films You Should See By The Age of 14.
The Story of Whale Rider
The Legend of Paikea
The film begins with a voice-over narration by Pai, telling the legend of her ancestor Paikea, who came to New Zealand from Hawaiki on the back of a whale. According to the legend, Paikea was the only survivor of his canoe that capsized in a storm. He prayed to the ancient ones, the whales, to save him. A whale heard his cry and carried him to the shore. Paikea became the leader of the Whangara people, who claim descent from him and the whale.
The Whangara people believe that their leader should be the first-born son of the first-born son of Paikea. This tradition has been passed down for generations. However, when Pai's twin brother and mother die during childbirth, her father Porourangi leaves her with his parents Koro and Nanny Flowers, and refuses to become the chief. Koro is distraught by this and does not accept Pai as his granddaughter.
The Life of Pai
Pai grows up as a bright and brave girl who loves her grandparents and her culture. She learns traditional songs and dances, and shows interest in the taiaha, a Māori wooden weapon used in ceremonies and combat. She also has a special bond with the whales that live near her village.
However, she faces many obstacles and prejudices from her grandfather Koro, who believes that she is breaking the sacred lineage of the chiefs. He blames her for the troubles that plague their tribe, such as the dying crops, the low catch of fish, and the lack of leadership. He tries to find a suitable male heir among the young boys of the village, but none of them meet his expectations.
Pai loves her grandfather and wants to prove herself to him. She secretly follows his lessons for the boys, and learns how to use the taiaha from her uncle Rawiri. She also discovers that she has a gift of communicating with whales, which she inherited from Paikea.
The Test of Leadership
One day, Koro decides to test the boys' knowledge of their traditions and ancestry. He asks them to retrieve a whale tooth necklace that he threw into the ocean. Whoever succeeds will be the next chief. However, none of the boys manage to find it.
Meanwhile, Pai finds out that her father is coming back to take her away with him to Germany, where he has a new family. She is heartbroken by this news, but decides to make one last attempt to win her grandfather's approval. She dives into the water and retrieves the whale tooth necklace.
She runs to Koro and shows him what she has done, hoping that he will finally recognize her as his true heir. However, Koro is furious and rejects her, telling her that she has no place in their tribe. He throws away the necklace and walks away from her.
Pai runs away in tears and climbs onto a hill overlooking the sea. There, she sees a pod of whales swimming towards the shore. She senses that they are in trouble and tries to warn her people.
The villagers soon discover that hundreds of whales have beached themselves on their coast. They try to save them by pouring water on them and pushing them back into the sea, but it is too late for most of them.
Koro sees this as a sign of his failure as a leader, and loses hope. He sits next to the largest whale, which is the leader of the pod and the reincarnation of Paikea. He begs the whale to take him away.
Pai hears his plea and decides to sacrifice herself for her people. She climbs onto the back of the whale and whispers to it, telling it to return to the sea. The whale responds to her voice and begins to move. The other whales follow suit, and they all swim away, leaving behind a trail of water.
Pai's act of courage and love astonishes everyone, especially Koro. He realizes that Pai is the true leader that their tribe needs, and that she has the spirit of Paikea within her. He embraces her and asks for her forgiveness.
The film ends with a celebration of Pai's recovery and her acceptance as the chief. Koro presents her with the whale tooth necklace, which he retrieved from the sea. He also gives her the taiaha, which is the symbol of leadership. Pai leads her people in a traditional chant, honoring their ancestors and their culture.
The Cast and Crew of Whale Rider
Keisha Castle-Hughes as Pai
Keisha Castle-Hughes was born on 24 March 1990 in Donnybrook, Western Australia. She moved to New Zealand with her family when she was four years old. She attended Penrose High School in Auckland.
She was discovered by a casting agent at her school, who was looking for a young Māori girl to play the role of Pai in Whale Rider. She had no acting experience prior to the film, but she impressed the director Niki Caro with her natural talent and charisma.
Her performance in Whale Rider earned her widespread acclaim and recognition. She became the youngest person ever to be nominated for an Academy Award for Best Actress in a Leading Role at age 13. She also won several other awards, such as the Broadcast Film Critics Association Award, the Chicago Film Critics Association Award, the Online Film Critics Society Award, and the Young Artist Award.
After Whale Rider, she continued to pursue her acting career. She appeared in films such as Star Wars: Episode III Revenge of the Sith (2005), The Nativity Story (2006), The Vintner's Luck (2009), and The Dark Horse (2014). She also starred in television shows such as Game of Thrones (2013), The Walking Dead (2016), Manhunt: Unabomber (2017), and On Becoming a God in Central Florida (2019).
Rawiri Paratene as Koro
Rawiri Paratene was born on 15 June 1953 in Auckland, New Zealand. He is a Māori actor, writer, director, and activist. He graduated from Auckland University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in English and Māori Studies.
He began his acting career in theatre, performing in plays such as The Merchant of Venice, Macbeth, King Lear, and Romeo and Juliet. He also wrote and directed several plays, such as Te Karakia (1981), Te Raukura (1989), and Te Whanau a Tuanui Jones (1990).
He made his film debut in Ngati (1987), which was the first feature film to be written and directed by Māori filmmakers. He also appeared in films such as Rapa Nui (1994), What Becomes of the Broken Hearted? (1999), The Insatiable Moon (2010), and Mr. Pip (2012).
His role as Koro in Whale Rider was one of his most acclaimed performances. He portrayed the complex character of a traditionalist grandfather who struggles to accept his granddaughter's destiny. He received several nominations for his role, such as the New Zealand Film Award, the Australian Film Institute Award, and the Screen Actors Guild Award.
Other Notable Actors
Some other notable actors in Whale Rider are:
Vicky Haughton as Nanny Flowers: She is Pai's grandmother and Koro's wife. She is supportive of Pai's aspirations and often stands up to Koro when he is harsh on her.
Cliff Curtis as Porourangi: He is Pai's father and Koro's son. He is a sculptor who lives abroad. He loves his daughter but feels guilty for leaving her behind.
Grant Roa as Uncle Rawiri: He is Pai's uncle and Koro's brother. He is a friendly and laid-back man who teaches Pai how to use the taiaha.
Niki Caro as the Director and Writer
Niki Caro was born on 1967 in Wellington, New Zealand. She is a film director, producer, and screenwriter. She graduated from Elam School of Fine Arts at Auckland University with a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Sculpture.
She began her film career by making short films, such as Sure to Rise (1994) and Footage (1996). She made her feature film debut with Memory and Desire (1998), which won the Best Film Award at the New Zealand Film Awards.
She gained international recognition with Whale Rider, which she wrote and directed. She adapted the screenplay from the novel by Witi Ihimaera, and added her own personal touches to the story. She also worked closely with the Whangara community, who welcomed her and the film crew into their village.
Her vision for Whale Rider was to create a film that celebrates the Māori culture and its connection to nature, while also addressing the issues of gender equality and generational conflict. She wanted to make a film that would inspire young girls and women to follow their dreams and overcome their challenges.
She received several awards and nominations for her work on Whale Rider, such as the BAFTA Children's Award, the Sundance Film Festival Audience Award, the Toronto International Film Festival People's Choice Award, and the New Zealand Film Award.
After Whale Rider, she continued to make films that explore different cultures and social issues, such as North Country (2005), The Zookeeper's Wife (2017), Mulan (2020), and Callas (TBA).
The Awards and Recognition of Whale Rider
The Academy Award Nomination
One of the most notable achievements of Whale Rider was the nomination for the Academy Award for Best Actress in a Leading Role for Keisha Castle-Hughes. She was only 13 years old when she received the nomination, making her the youngest person ever to be nominated in that category.
This nomination was a historic moment for several reasons. It was the first time that a person from New Zealand was nominated for an acting Oscar. It was also the first time that a person of Māori descent was nominated for an Oscar. It was also the first time that a person who played a Māori character was nominated for an Oscar.
The nomination also brought attention to the film and its message of female empowerment and cultural pride. It also boosted Castle-Hughes' career and opened up more opportunities for her in Hollywood.
The BAFTA Children's Award
Another significant achievement of Whale Rider was the win of the BAFTA Children's Award for Best Feature Film in 2004. This award is given by the British Academy of Film and Television Arts to honor films that are made for or appeal to children.
The win of this award showed that Whale Rider was not only a film for adults, but also for young audiences. It showed that children could relate to Pai's story and learn from her courage and determination. It also showed that children could appreciate the beauty and diversity of the Māori culture and its traditions.
The win of this award also helped to increase the popularity and visibility of Whale Rider in the United Kingdom and other countries. It also helped to inspire more filmmakers to create films that are suitable and meaningful for children.
Other International Awards
Besides the Academy Award nomination and the BAFTA Children's Award win, Whale Rider also received many other international awards and nominations from various film festivals and organizations. Here are some of them:
The Sundance Film Festival Audience Award for World Cinema Dramatic in 2003
The Toronto International Film Festival People's Choice Award in 2002
The Rotterdam International Film Festival Audience Award in 2003
The San Francisco International Film Festival Audience Award for Best Narrative Feature in 2003
The New Zealand Film Awards for Best Film, Best Director, Best Actress, Best Supporting Actress, Best Screenplay, Best Cinematography, Best Editing, Best Original Music, Best Soundtrack, Best Costume Design, Best Production Design, Best Makeup Design in 2003
The Australian Film Institute Awards for Best Foreign Film and Best Young Actor in 2003
The Broadcast Film Critics Association Awards for Best Young Actor/Actress and Best Family Film in 2004
The Chicago Film Critics Association Awards for Most Promising Performer and Best Family Film in 2004
The Online Film Critics Society Awards for Best Breakthrough Performance and Best Youth Performance in 2004
The Phoenix Film Critics Society Awards for Best Performance by a Youth in a Lead or Supporting Role - Female and Best Live Action Family Film in 2004
The Satellite Awards for Best Actress in a Motion Picture, Drama and Best Motion Picture, Foreign Language in 2004
The Young Artist Awards for Best Performance in a Feature Film - Leading Young Actress and Best International Feature Film in 2004
The Themes and Messages of Whale Rider
The Importance of Culture and Tradition
One of the main themes of Whale Rider is the importance of culture and tradition for the Māori people and their identity. The film shows how the Whangara people have preserved their ancestral heritage and values for generations, and how they are proud of their connection to Paikea and the whales.
However, the film also shows how culture and tradition can be challenged and changed by the forces of modernization and globalization. The film depicts the conflicts that arise between Koro and Pai, who represent the old and the new generations, respectively. Koro is a staunch defender of the old ways, while Pai is a curious and adventurous explorer of the new possibilities.
The film does not take sides or judge either of them, but rather shows how they can learn from each other and find a balance between tradition and innovation. The film suggests that culture and tradition are not static or rigid, but dynamic and adaptable. The film also implies that culture and tradition are not exclusive or oppressive, but inclusive and empowering.
The Role of Women and Gender Equality
Another major theme of Whale Rider is the role of women and gender equality in the Māori society and culture. The film challenges the patriarchal norms and expectations that Koro imposes on his tribe, especially on Pai. Koro believes that only a male can be the chief, and that women have no place in leadership or decision-making.
However, the film proves him wrong by showing how Pai is capable of being a leader, and how she has the support and respect of her people. Pai demonstrates her intelligence, courage, compassion, and charisma throughout the film. She also shows her skills in traditional arts, such as singing, dancing, carving, and fighting.
The film also portrays other strong female characters, such as Nanny Flowers, who is Koro's wife and Pai's grandmother. She is a wise and loving woman who stands up for Pai and challenges Koro's authority. She also teaches Pai about their culture and history, and encourages her to follow her dreams.
The film empowers women and girls to pursue their potentials and aspirations, regardless of their gender or social roles. The film also promotes gender equality and respect among men and women, boys and girls. The film shows how both genders can contribute to their community and culture in different but equally valuable ways.
The Connection between Humans and Nature
A third theme of Whale Rider is the connection between humans and nature, especially between Pai and the whales. The film depicts the connection between humans and nature as a sacred and spiritual bond that transcends time and space. The film shows how Pai and the whales share a common ancestry and destiny, and how they communicate and understand each other through their hearts and minds.
The film also conveys a message of respect and harmony for the environment and its creatures. The film shows how the Whangara people live in harmony with nature, and how they value and protect their land and sea. The film also shows how the whales are not just animals, but ancient beings that have wisdom and power.
The film warns against the dangers of human interference and exploitation of nature, and how it can lead to disaster and destruction. The film illustrates this by showing how the whales become stranded on the shore, which is a sign of their distress and despair. The film also implies that this is a result of human activities, such as pollution, overfishing, and whaling.
The film urges humans to reconnect with nature, and to learn from its lessons and gifts. The film suggests that humans can benefit from nature's beauty, diversity, and balance, and that they can also contribute to its preservation and restoration.
Conclusion
Whale Rider is a film that celebrates the Māori culture and its connection to nature, while also addressing the issues of gender equality and generational conflict. It is a film that tells a universal story of courage, love, and leadership, through the eyes of a young girl who defies the odds and follows her dreams.
The film is a masterpiece of storytelling, cinematography, music, and acting. It is a film that touches the hearts and minds of audiences of all ages and backgrounds. It is a film that inspires and empowers people to embrace their identity and potential.
I highly recommend this film to anyone who loves a good story, a good message, and a good movie. Whale Rider is a film that you will never forget.
FAQs
Where can I watch Whale Rider?
You can watch Whale Rider on various streaming platforms, such as Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, YouTube, Google Play Movies & TV, iTunes, Vudu, etc. You can also buy or rent the DVD or Blu-ray from online or physical stores.
Is Whale Rider based on a true story?
Whale Rider is based on a novel by Witi Ihimaera, which was inspired by his own experiences growing up in Whangara. However, the story of Pai and her grandfather is fictional. The legend of Paikea is also based on Māori mythology, but it has been adapted for the film.
What is the meaning of the title Whale Rider?
The title Whale Rider refers to Paikea, the ancestor of the Whangara people who came to New Zealand on the back of a whale. It also refers to Pai, his descendant who rides the whale leader to save her tribe. It symbolizes the connection between humans and nature, and between past and future.
What is the significance of the whale tooth necklace?
The whale tooth necklace is a symbol of leadership and inheritance for the Whangara people. It was given by Paikea to his eldest son, who passed it down to his descendants. Koro throws it into the ocean as a test for the boys to prove their worthiness as his successor. Pai finds it and returns it to Koro, showing that she is his true heir.
What is the message of Whale Rider?
Whale Rider has many messages, but one of them is that anyone can be a leader, regardless of their gender or age. It also shows that leadership is not about power or authority, but about courage and love. It also encourages people to respect their culture and tradition, while also embracing change and innovation. It also urges people to reconnect with nature and protect the environment. 44f88ac181