The Dead Lands

Set in pre-colonial New Zealand, this film follows a young Maori chieftain’s son, Hongi, as he embarks on a quest to avenge his father’s murder and bring peace to his tribe. To achieve this, he must navigate the treacherous Dead Lands and seek the help of a mysterious and fearsome warrior. Directed by Toa Fraser, the movie is notable for its authentic portrayal of Maori culture and language, featuring a cast of indigenous actors including James Rolleston and Lawrence Makoare. While it didn’t receive major awards, it was praised for its stunning cinematography and intense action sequences. For those interested, it can be viewed for free on Soap2day.