Directed by: Lee Tamahori
Distributed by: Footprint Films
Written by Livvy O’Brien
95/100
As the credits began to roll, I sat in silence, ruminating on the film I had just watched. Once Were Warriors is a profoundly powerful and confronting film that delves deep into the struggles and resilience of a Māori family. It is a brutal but essential watch, and unfortunately, it is a reality for many families.
Jake “The Muss” Heke (Temuera Morrison) is his family’s protector and destroyer. His imposing, charismatic presence demands respect, but his charm can switch to violent fury in an instant, leaving destruction in its wake. For eighteen years, Beth Heke (Rena Owen) has endured the brunt of Jake’s uncontrollable rage, yet despite everything, she continues to love him. The Heke family is plagued by chaos and discord, with little sense of structure or harmony. Their eldest son, Nig (Julian Arahanga), escapes this turmoil by moving out and joining a gang. As part of his initiation, he endures a brutal beating, passed from one gang member to another before being accepted into the group. The violence is harsh, but for Nig, it feels like a better option than living under Jake’s oppressive rule. His younger brother, Boogie (Taungaroa Emile), is sent to a boys’ home after social workers witness the aftermath of one of Jake’s frequent alcohol-fueled brawls. It’s there that Boogie begins to reconnect with his ancestral roots, finding solace and strength in embracing Māori culture. Meanwhile, their sister Grace (Mamaengaroa Kerr-Bell) grows increasingly resentful of her mother’s compliance with Jake’s tyranny and chooses to spend most of her time with her best friend, Toot (Shannon Williams).
When approaching “Once Were Warriors,” it is crucial to understand the cultural context behind the film. This is not just a story of domestic violence; it’s a powerful exposure of the devastating impact of white colonialism on the Māori people. Beneath the surface, the film reflects how colonisers forcibly stripped the Māori of their cultural harmony, imposing Western ideals and urbanisation that fractured their society. The suffering of the Heke family is a direct result of this colonial oppression, which severed them from their heritage and left them struggling in a world that has torn apart the fabric of their society. The violence and despair depicted in the film are tragic consequences of the relentless dismantling of Māori culture and community by colonial forces.
Owen’s portrayal of Beth is a cornerstone of the film’s emotional depth. She brings a profound authenticity to her role, capturing Beth’s strength, vulnerability, and enduring spirit. A pivotal moment in her journey is symbolised by a harrowing scream that lingered hauntingly in my ears. The raw intensity and anguish of that scream are unforgettable, serving as a powerful testament to Owen’s exceptional acting abilities. One of the film’s most powerful moments occurs when Beth confronts Jake with a stirring monologue: “Our people once were warriors. But unlike you, Jake, they were people with mana, pride; people with spirit. If my spirit can survive living with you for eighteen years, then I can survive anything.” This declaration is not only a testament to Beth’s personal resilience but also a powerful reflection of the broader Māori spirit. Despite the oppressive forces of colonisation and the personal trials she has faced, Beth’s words signify a reclaiming of her own strength and a deeper connection to Māori heritage and identity.
“Once Were Warriors” is not a light watch; it is profoundly devastating and disturbing, yet it resonates deeply with truth for many. The film’s unflinching portrayal of violence and cultural disintegration, coupled with its powerful performances, delivers a haunting and moving narrative. Its exploration of personal and collective trauma highlights the resilience of the Māori people and the enduring impact of colonial oppression. Despite the agonsing content, the film’s raw honesty and emotional depth make it an essential and impactful watch.
“Once Were Warriors” Trailer
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