Based around the New Zealand culture of the Maori, this is the story of a 12-year old girl named Pai who attempts to attain the tribal position of Whale Rider, which has traditionally been held only by males. She is the only surviving child of the chief, and thus has some claim to the title.

MOVIE REVIEW

One of the most critically acclaimed movies of 2003 comes to video, allowing even wider audiences to enjoy the film that is Whale Rider. While it is one of the better films of the year, the hype does not do it justice - it has nothing that really makes it stand out, and nothing that confirms it as one of the key players come awards season.
Read our Whale Rider movie review »