13 Member Reviews
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5
by Mark_S
Having just arrived in NZ, I was told that this was a film to watch as part of my 'rites of passage'. having been told that it was a difficult story, I was not looking forward to it and had the DVD... Read more
for about a week before I could face watching it. However, I was surprised. Yes, it is a difficult story, yes it is violent (in places) and yes it does make you despair sometimes. But what a strong story, well acted and a view into a part of NZ culture that I was likely to know nothing about otherwise. And although tarumatic in places, overall it had an uplifting message and a good end. i could even watch it again. This is also the view of my wife and my 17 year old daughter. A good film worth watching.
5
by Simon
The film is equally moving and appalling, I had watched it in the UK on the advice of a Kiwi mate, since being here a number of friends asked if I had seen it because they grew up like that, watched... Read more
it again and again was moved and horrified but elated that people survived it and became the wonderful people I know.
5
by La6
The first time I saw this movie a few years ago I was terribly affected by it. This time knowing what was going to happen i could concentrate on the sheer brilliance of the movie and especially the actors. A disturbing meaningful movie.
5
by Muaupoko
This is a classic. Even in countries that don't even know a lot about NZ, know about Once Were Warriors. What can I review about this, 90% of New Zealanders have seen this movie.
5
by On2it
Being a kiwi myself the reality of this movie is amazing. Very much an insight to the tragedies of some of the lower socio-economic Maori population (having been watched by many of those who this story... Read more
affects). A wake up call to say the least. Rena Owen and Tem Morrison come across in such a natural way that I have seldom seen in movies from New Zealand. A must see.
1
by Kiwi Mac
One of the worst films I have ever had to sit through.
2
by fatcop666
I am a New Zealander, and it is funny because at 23 it is my first time watching, and I was horrified by this movie.
The worst thing, is the giant "New Zealand film commission" screen that appears... Read more
before the movie starts. This film very badly depicts our country, and I did not like watching it and was tempted to turn it off numerous times as the violence is horrific. A guy that can knock a person the size of Jonah Lomu over in seconds, and regularly tries it on the family. Not very nice at all. If you want a movie that shows true Kiwis, I suggest you watch "Boy" not "Once Were Warriors"
5
by johno17
A fantasticly well acted film, such a powerful story, it had my wife in tears a number of times. A true classic.
4
by Flingo
Strong film with a difficult story to tackle but it has been done very well. It made me angry, it made me cry, it made me really stop and think. The actors who portrayed all of the children were incredible... Read more
, especially those playing Boogie, Grace and Nig.Temuera Morrison was very good as Jake but I felt a bit let down by Rena Owen as Beth who at times seemed to be just reciting her lines. Cliff Curtis had the unenviable job of playing the scumbag of the film and he did a great job for a character you couldn't but hate.
The music was fantastically raw and added another dimension to the feel of the film. A really powerful Kiwi film.
3
by Slugger2
A classic NZ film everyone should watch. Spawned some great catch phrases- Cook me some eggs... need i say more.
