Based on the novel of the same name, this film celebrates the Maori culture of New Zealand.
A young girl, Pai, must overcome gender resistance from her grandfather, who is helping raise her. According to tribal tradition, any successive tribal leader must be the son of the current one. According to legend, a chief named Paikea rode a whale and led his people to their current land of New Zealand. In a well – directed modern extension of a traditional myth, Pai shows herself to be capable of picking up the torch with a touch of girl power. Family dynamics are also well demonstrated as the girl and her grandmother try to break through to a stubborn man. I can honestly recommend this film in its own right, as well as a companion piece for those studying the novel. For intermediate grades and up.
Photo Credit: Amazon
