Whale Rider: A culture and its times

The film Whale Rider, by Niki Caro, takes a close look at New Zealand's Maori culture; examining the legend of Paikea, the Whale Rider. In this film, there needs to be an understanding of the importance of the natural environment to the Maori. A pivotal point is when the grandfather finds the beached whales on shore. The community's response to this shocking situation becomes more clear when understanding that they find their strength in having a bond between nature and themselves.

Another topic of significance when considering the Maori culture is the roles given genders in the film. It is made clear that men are seen in leadership roles while women are meant to take a back seat; this of course clashes with the main character's desire to perform the same tasks that the men are given. Like many stories of creation, in the Maori mythology and legends, man was created first, then woman as a reward. This is the beginning of defining the gender roles in Maori culture. Women aid the men, but are not on equal footing.

The main character is a young girl that is named after Paikea, the great leader (male, of course) that arrived to the land via a whale. With the name comes great personal responsibility; Pai feeling a strong connection to the sea and whales, having a natural instinct to assist. This however clashes with the Maori's value on male patriarchy, leaving her to make her way down her own path with little assistance.

Understanding the culture's history and beliefs provides insight into Maori life as depicted in Caro's Whale Rider. The otherwise mysterious values of the culture come into focus when considering the culture's history and mythology.