Whale Rider

Drama/Book adaptation, New Zealand 2002

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The inhabitants of this small New Zealand coastal town trace their ancestry back to Paikea, the Whale Rider. For over a thousand years, one male descendant from each generation has held this title. Now the time has come for a new heir. However, the hopeful dies in childbirth and only his twin sister survives. The tribe chief and grandfather of the girl believes that the birth of little Paikea has brought misfortune to the tribe. Paikea, called Pai, loves her grandfather more than anything. He, however, does not want to accept her as the future leader and his successor. So he calls all the male first-borns of the village together to find the chosen one. For Pai, a struggle against discrimination and for the recognition and love of her grandfather begins. In mystically beautiful images, director Niki Caro takes a moving look at a timeless story and love, recognition and the struggle against outdated traditions. An emotionally gripping film between myth and present.
Audio language:
EnglishGerman
Subtitles:
German

Awards

Seattle Film Festival 2003 Best film, Best director
2003 Rotterdam Film Festival Canal+ Audience Award
Sundance Film Festival 2003 World Cinema Audience Award Winner

Further recommendations

More information

Director:

Niki Caro

Writer:

Niki Caro

Template:

Witi Ihimaera (Novel "The Whale Rider")

Composer:

Lisa Gerrard

Cast:

Keisha Castle-Hughes (Paikea Apirana)

Rawiri Paratene (Koro)

Vicky Haughton (Flowers)

Cliff Curtis (Porourangi)

Grant Roa (Uncle Rawiri)

Mana Taumaunu (Hemi)

Rachel House (Shilo)

Taungaroa Emile (Willie)

Original title:

Whale Rider

Original language:

English

Format:

16:9 HD, Color

Age recommendation of the KJF:

Starting at 10 years

Age rating:

FSK 6

Audio language:

EnglishGerman

Subtitles:

German