Whale Rider

Unquestionably, the absolute best movie I've ever seen!

If you love movies about real people in real life, stories that make you laugh and cry, feel the pains, disappointments, and trials of life, and celebrate the power and resilience of the human spirit, this movie is for you! Pai and her oh-so-familiar and disfunctional family made me do all of this many times over in the course of this beautifully raw film. More so than I've ever done before, outside my own personal life experience. What else can I say, but GO SEE IT!

1 out of 1 people found this review helpful.

Great movie

This was one of the best movies I have ever seen. My husband and I were excited to see the movie anyways as we were going to New Zealand for our honeymoon. It is a beautiful country and we can understand the importance of the Maori culture. A must see!!!!

1 out of 1 people found this review helpful.

Great movie! Must see this!

This is an excellent movie with a wonderful plot and great musical score. Pai, played by Keisha Castle Hughes, is perfectly cast as the main character. She draws you into this film and sometimes breaks your heart. 'Whale Rider' has a real story to tell, without resorting to typical Hollywood staples like violence and sex. This is not a 'kid' movie as the title and plot might suggest-it's a must see for everyone!

1 out of 1 people found this review helpful.

Mesmerizing. A Star Turn for the little girl. Loved it and s

Mesmerizing. A Star Turn for the little girl. Loved it and showed it to several other people who also said they loved it.

This is a beautiful movie with a message of love, acceptance and

This is a beautiful movie with a message of love, acceptance and triumphing when the odds are against you. Never underestimate the power you hold within, for everyone has an untapped source deep within their soul.

middle school viewer!

i absolutly loved this movie. it was shown to me in social studies class, and i fell in love with it. i reccomend it for anyone!

Wonderful touching film

I had heard so much about this movie. And when I finally sat down and watched it I was floored as to how good it was. Surprising as a man and a father of 2 girls I thought it was fantastic.

WOW!

This movie was more than I expected. 'Pai' is an excellent actress with great potentials.

A beautiful, soul-touching coming-of-age story

From the beginning, this film resonated on many levels-- from the mysterious whale mythology to familial intergeneration relationships to the role of women in society. The daily struggles that Pai had to endure alternately brought tears to my eyes or had me sobbing. But the joy for living that she exhibited and the tremendous strength of her character made me cheer. I hold this story close to my heart as a tribute to all women who succeed in teaching others how to love.

Great movie!!!

When I first watched this movie I did not want to take my eyes off the screen. I would recommend it for anyone.

Absolutly Fantastic!

This movie was absolutly wonderful! As a 16 year old I dont always like movies my parents like, but it was actually me who showed it to them, and they fell in love with it too!

Touching, intelligent and perfect for everyone

At a time when family entertainment generally means bland, undemanding comedy, Whale Rider is genuinely for everyone. At its heart is the story of a young girl (a stunning debut performance by Keisha Castle-Hughes) and her troubled times trying to be accepted in her own Maori culture. However, its universal themes of acceptance, compassion and belonging make this accessible and a joy for everyone. A truly spellbinding movie that will bring an innocent happiness to adults and important life-lessons to children, without insulting the intelligence of either.

Wow!

I absolutely loved this film, i am 16 years old and i was on the verge of tears and laughing histerically throughout the movie. this is an excellent movie which has made it to my top ten movie favorites, this move was genious, pure genious.

Speaks to Your Spirit

A GREAT (!!!) movie about a young person's struggle for recognition that most anyone can appreciate--but I believe most powerful for girls of 12-16. If Pia's speach near the end of the movie doesn't move you, you are likely unmovable. I recommend this movie to everyone I know. Just plain superb!

Amazing Movie!!!

This is one of the most amazing films I have ever seen. It grabs hold of your emotions and never lets go! I can see this movie topping my list of favorites for decades. You must see this film, and once you see it you will want to own it.

Don't wait to see this film...you will not be disappointed!

WOW is all I can say about this amazing story. The film highly exceeded my expectations and has not gotten the recognition that it deserves. The journey of Pai will break your heart, make you laugh, and completely move you all at the same time. I recommend this for anyone, it is a must-see!

Empowering and uplifting!

This movie involved awe inspiring cinematography, and unwavering performances from the cast members, both young and old. It was a truly touching story, based on very old traditions. A production that is a must see for both men and women.

Best International Film Ever

Whale Rider is empowering, moving and all-around wonderful. Enjoyable for all adult audiences. One of the best movies I've ever seen. I HIGHLY recommend this movie. If you don't see it you'll be missing out BIG TIME.

For future warrior saints

A really sweet and wonderful story. For all the young girls who like to run with the boys and for the women they grew up to be.

One of the best films of 2003

I have recommended this film to all of my friends and family. Unfortunately, it was not in wide release in most cities, and here in Hawaii. Unless you seeked it out, you would have missed it. How sad that in our society films of this nature are not seen more than some of the rubbish that is produced in Hollywood today! I hope that more people will buy the DVD or video upon its release this month. It would make a great gift for any age group.