No special effects, no blue screens, no giant man-eating whales. This is an amazingly simple, yet touching movie that should register with a variety of audiences.
The story revolves around Pai, a young girl of the Maori people of New Zealand - who has to deal with situations beyond her control, and how she overcomes them. As the twin-sister of the next male heir of the tribe (who dies in childbirth), she has to react to soured relations with her relatives. Remarkably, she shows promise of being able to lead the people well in the future, just like her grandfather, the great Koro (another good performance). But she also displays that extra edge that’s needed to suceed in life - to be able to adapt. It’s not so much about gender rights, or challending the patriarchal establishment (not in some Amazon sense anyway). Rather more about change in society, and how to deal with being dealt a bad deck in life.
At times it tries a bit too hard to come off as some sort of hyper-spiritual feel good experience. It won’t be the most magical movie you’ll ever see (although it might come close for some); just a refreshingly good movie. It’s brilliantly done overall, and it’s no wonder it’s won so much acclaim globally.
Superb acting by most of the cast, especially the lead girl as Pai, good music, and amazing scenery! I’d highly recommend this movie to almost anyone. :k: