This March to celebrate #internationalwomensday2024 - We are screening only films by female directors.

Whale Rider

Directed by Niki Caro

Paikea (Keisha Castle-Hughes) is 12 and a Maori girl.  Growing up is difficult in a patriarchal New Zealand tribe, but Pai firmly believes she is destined to be the new chief of her beloved tribe.

Her grandfather Koro, however,  is firmly bound by tradition & tribal lore to pick a male leader. Pai loves Koro more than anyone in the world, but she must fight him, & a thousand years of tradition to fulfil her destiny.

Deeply moving, visually effervescent - as full of courage and power as its protagonist;  Niki Caro’s entrancing film, based on the book by Witi Ithaemera, is a cliche-free, fresh stunner that lingers long in the heart & mind.

Director Niki Caro

Cast Keisha Castle-Hughes, Rawiri Paratene, Vicky Haughton

Genre(s) Drama, Action, Adventure

Language(s) New Zealand, Germany, Some Maori

Runtime 1h 41m

Cert PG

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