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Whale Rider (2002)
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If you want a family drama that takes in such weighty issues as spirituality, destiny and the role of women in Maori culture, then this unsentimental drama from director Niki Caro fits the bill. The focus is on schoolgirl Paikea (played by Oscar-nominated Keisha Castle-Hughes), who must prove her ancestral worth and leadership qualities to her old-fashioned grandfather, a believer in upholding masculine tribal traditions in a fast-changing world. The stern character of the patriarchal Koro (Rawiri Paratene), the stunning scenery of the New Zealand coastline, the often sharply funny and well-observed script and the uniformly solid acting ensure that any cloying worthiness is disguised. The last-act arrival of the magical whale riding might come a little late for even the most patient of children, but parents will warm to the many fine moments that highlight the unpredictability of familial love. AJ
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Tell us what you think
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Running time
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97min
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Country of origin
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NZ / Ger
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Genre
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Drama
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Original language
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English
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Screenplay
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Niki Caro, from the novel by Witi Ihimaera
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Theatrical distributor
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Icon
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UK cinema certificate
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PG
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UK cinema release date
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July 2003
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UK video release date
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January 2004
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| awards information |
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Award |
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Nominee/Winner |
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| Academy 2003 |
Actress in a Leading Role |
Keisha Castle-Hughes |
Nominee |
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Film certification logos reproduced by kind permission of BBFC |
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