Whale Rider

Whale Rider tells the poignant story of a young Maori girl in a modern New Zealand coastal village and her battle to become her tribe’s future leader. Paikea (Keisha Castle-Hughes) is the namesake of her ancestor Paikea, a legendary chief who rode a whale to safety and began the line of first-born male chiefs who have led the Whangara tribe through the centuries. After her father, who refuses the position, Paikea is the only living heir to this chiefly succession — but tradition bars girls from become chief or training for the role’s sacred rituals. Paikea prepares anyway, behind the back of her traditional grandfather (Rawiri Paratene), the current chief, who is angry and anguished over the lack of a male heir and having great difficulty accepting the inevitability of change. Directed by Niki Caro, and adapted from Maori writer Witi Ihimaera’s novel of the same name, the film showcases compelling characters and the stunning landscapes and seascapes of New Zealand. Whale Rider became an instant favorite of film-goers of all ages. Keisha Castle-Hughes garnered an Oscar nomination for her fine lead performance. “Wickedly absorbing . . . it has the inspiring resonance of found art” (Elvis Mitchell, New York Times). Colour, 35mm. 101 mins.