Once Were Warriors follows the story of a Maori family living in New Zealand, dealing with poverty, domestic violence, and the influence of youth gangs. It explores themes of loss, despair, and the strength of the individual in the face of adversity.
Whale Rider is a story of a young Maori girl named Paikea, who fights against the patriarchal traditions of her tribe to prove that she is worthy of becoming the chief. Despite facing opposition from her grandfather and other members of the community, Paikea shows her leadership skills and connection with nature. With the help of a stranded whale, she ultimately earns the respect of her people and fulfills her destiny.
Young Hercules is a movie set in ancient Greece that follows the training and adventures of Hercules, a demi-god, as he strives to become a legendary hero. The plot involves Hercules participating in various quests, battling monsters, and uncovering the truth about his past. Along the way, he faces challenges and encounters mythological creatures while developing his skills and character.
In Rain of the Children, Ward further explores the subject of his earlier film, In Spring One Plants Alone when, as a young film student he travelled to the Ureweras and documented the lives of an elderly Māori woman (Puhi) and her schizophrenic son (Niki).
Six Māori Battalion soldiers camped in Italian ruins wait for night to fall. In the silence, the bros-in-arms distract themselves with jokes. A tohu (sign) brings them back to reality, and they gather to say a karakia before returning to the fray. Director Taika Waititi describes the soldiers as young men with "a special bond, strengthened by their character, their culture and each other.
No. 2 is a comedic drama set in New Zealand that explores the dynamics of a multi-generational family. The story revolves around a big family living in Auckland, led by their patriarch and matriarch. The film delves into the complexities of family relationships, with themes of drunkenness, family feuds, and discontent. The family is preparing for a feast with their extended relatives from Fiji, and tensions rise as old conflicts resurface. As the gathering progresses, secrets are revealed and the family must confront their issues to find resolution. Throughout the film, there are comedic moments mixed with emotional scenes that highlight the struggles and joys of family life.
Belief: The Possession of Janet Moses is a documentary that explores the tragic case of Janet Moses, a young woman who died during an exorcism ritual performed by her family members. The film delves into the complexities of cultural beliefs, mental illness, and the power of superstition.
Billy (Cliff Curtis) is trying to organize the biggest celebration the town of Waimatua has even seen - the 75th Jubilee of their school. In doing this, feckless Billy is trying to redeem himself in the eyes of his family, especially his frustrated wife Pauline (Theresa Healey). However trouble arrives with the return of a local former All Blacks Captain, an old flame of Pauline's.
In the midst of World War II, a group of soldiers stationed in Hawaii must navigate cultural differences and treacherous betrayals.
After the death of his uncle, a young man remembers back to a game his uncle taught him.
After a period of separation, Sarah visits her research scientist mother on a remote New Zealand island. Before long Sarah becomes inextricably involved in events involving both Maori legend and an Albatross.
Nancy, a drag queen performer, returns to his hometown in New Zealand to reconcile with his estranged father and discovers unexpected connections and acceptance along the way.
Ariana is in trouble with the law. Aided by a sympathetic social worker the young Māori woman defends herself against assault charges after a police raid on her home.
The story of famous New Zealand cricketer, Bob Blair and his fiance Nerissa Love, whose young life was shattered by the 1953 Tangiwai Disaster.
One summer’s day, Jayde and Wiremu tag along with their older siblings on a trip to a local swimming hole; young passions ignite by the Rotorua hot pool. Later, tragedy occurs and Jayde faces lost innocence and the ritual of tangi while bearing a secret.
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