Whale Rider

About Whale Rider

The movie 'Whale Rider' is a 2003 family drama directed by Niki Caro. Set in a small New Zealand coastal village, East Coast, the film follows the story of a young Maori girl, Paikea 'Pai' Apirana (Keisha Castle-Hughes). Challenging the thousand years old tradition of her tribe, she dreams of becoming the new chief – a role strictly reserved for males. The plot evolves around her fight against prejudice and for equal rights.

Making / Production

Whale Rider was directed by Niki Caro, produced by Tim Sanders, John Barnett, and Frank Hübner. It’s based on Witi Ihimaera’s novel of the same name. The filming took place in Whangara, the village where the book is set. Following Maori customs, before the shooting commenced, the entire area was blessed by local Maori Chiefs to pay respects to the community and their ancestors.

Actors

• Keisha Castle-Hughes as Paikea 'Pai' Apirana – The 11 years old girl who proved her leadership skills regardless of gender bias. She became the youngest nominee for the Best Actress Award at the Academy at that time.
• Rawiri Paratene as Koro – Pai's grandfather and the current village chief. He strongly follows old traditions and refuses to accept Pai as his successor.
• Vicky Haughton as Nanny Flowers – Pai's supportive grandmother, who provides emotional resilience and warmth to Pai on her journey.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The film was shot on location in Whangara, New Zealand.
• Keisha Castle-Hughes was only 11 years old when offered the lead role.
• The school Haka scene was performed by real students, not hired actors.

Awards

The movie was critically acclaimed, receiving various awards and nominations. Notably, Keisha Castle-Hughes was nominated for Best Actress in a Leading Role at the 2004 Academy Awards, making her the youngest person to be nominated in this category at that time.

Quotes

• "Whale Rider. Sure it's a kid's movie, but it reaches out and grabs the child in all of us.” – Roger Ebert.
• "My name is Paikea Apirana, and I come from a long line of chiefs.” – Paikea 'Pai' Apirana.

Music, Soundtrack

• Lisa Gerrard is the composer behind the emotive soundtrack that weaves seamlessly with the movie's narrative. The original score includes pieces like "Paikea Legend," "Journey Away," and "They Came to Die."