The Dead Lands

Looking for a dynamic action fantasy with honour codes, violent battle scenes and a total lack of product placement? Try this atmospheric New Zealand production, set in the period of that country's history before the arrival of the first white settlers. James Rolleston stars as Hongi, who is accused by a passing tribe - led by the devious Wirepa (Te Kohe Tuhaka) - of desecrating a holy burial ground. Though he's innocent of the crime, it looks bad for the young man. But when he is spared, Wirepa's apparent leniency causes Hongi's trusting family to drop their guard. Overnight, Hongi's entire tribe is wiped out in a vicious surprise attack. Though outnumbered, he is determined to take his revenge, but the only way to catch up with Wirepa's men is through the forbidden Dead Lands, an area ruled by a terrifying cannibal warrior. Filmed entirely in the Maori language, this is an exotic and satisfying alternative to the average Hollywood punch-'em-up, an offbeat war story with a neat sideline in ancient magic-realist philosophy.