Whale Rider 2003

In the captivating narrative of this film, we are introduced to Paikea Apirana (Pai), a 12-year-old girl who finds herself at the epicenter of a long-standing tradition in her tribe. Born without a male sibling or direct patrilineal descendant, Pai is faced with the daunting task of shouldering the responsibilities of leadership, a role typically reserved for men in her community. The death of her twin brother and mother at birth has left her as the sole heir to the chiefly succession, sparking a chain reaction of emotions within her family.

Pai’s grandfather, Apirana (Old Paka), is initially disheartened by his grandson’s passing and feels that Pai’s very existence is a disappointment. Despite eventually developing a bond with his granddaughter, he struggles to accept her as a worthy successor. His wife, Nanny Flowers, affectionately dubs him “Old Paka,” and the two share a tender connection, often seen carrying Pai to school on his bicycle.

As Pai navigates her newfound role, she faces skepticism from those around her, including her own grandfather, who blames her for the troubles plaguing their tribe. The weight of responsibility becomes crushing, prompting Pai to contemplate leaving with her father. However, an inexplicable connection to the sea and its ancient rhythms keeps her rooted in her community. With a sense of urgency, she requests that her father turn back, and they return home.

In the aftermath, Pai’s father chooses to pursue a career in Germany as an artist, rather than assume traditional leadership. Undeterred, Pai sets her sights on becoming the leader of her tribe, despite the absence of precedent for women to hold such a position. She becomes deeply immersed in learning traditional songs and dances, but her grandfather’s lack of encouragement only fuels her determination.

As the story unfolds, Pai’s unwavering resolve is tested as she confronts the challenges and doubts that surround her. Will she be able to overcome these obstacles and defy tradition to become the leader her tribe needs? The journey ahead promises to be a powerful exploration of identity, perseverance, and the unyielding call of one’s true self.

As Koro endeavours to find a worthy successor among the village boys, he establishes a cultural school where they can learn the art of wielding a taiaha, a traditionally male-dominated skill. Unbeknownst to Koro, Pai secretly honed her combat skills with her uncle’s guidance and equally discreetly followed Koro’s teachings, earning her place as one of the most proficient students. Meanwhile, Hemi, another student, had quietly become sympathetic towards Pai’s plight. However, when Koro discovers her proficiency in taiaha fighting, his anger and frustration intensify, particularly after she defeats Hemi in a match. The rift between them deepens further when none of the boys can recover the rei puta, a sacred whale tooth, which Koro had thrown into the ocean as a test of their leadership potential.

In an attempt to mend the divide, Pai invites Koro to be her guest of honour at a concert featuring traditional Mori chants performed by her school. Unbeknownst to everyone, she had earlier won an inter-school speech contest with a heartfelt tribute to Koro and the village’s customs. However, Koro’s tardiness means he misses the performance, only to stumble upon a disturbing sight: numerous right whales are beached near Pai’s home, their massive bodies strewn along the shore. The villagers frantically try to coax the creatures back into the ocean, but even the use of a tractor fails as the rope snaps. Koro views this calamity as a personal failure and despairs further, chastising Pai for her perceived audacity and warning her against touching the largest whale, deeming it sacred property belonging to the legendary Paikea.

As Koro walks away in dismay, Pai seizes an opportunity and climbs onto the back of the largest whale, gently coaxing it to re-enter the ocean. The massive creature leads its pod back into the sea, with Paikea narrowly escaping drowning in the process. Upon her recovery, Nanny Flowers reveals to Koro that Pai had previously retrieved the sacred whale tooth, a feat that underscores her growing leadership potential. When Pai is found and taken to hospital, Koro publicly declares her the leader, seeking her forgiveness. The film concludes with the village, including Pai’s family members, celebrating her newfound status as leader as they prepare to launch the completed waka into the sea for its maiden voyage.