Crooked Earth

Crooked Earth is a dramatic 2001 New Zealand feature film with shades of gripping thriller elements. It features celebrated Maori actor Temuera Morrison, Lawrence Makoare, and Jaime Passier-Armstrong in stellar roles. The movie is a remarkable narrative that delves deep into the community's saga and the challenges faced by its members. The story provides an intriguing exploration of Maori traditions, socio-political dynamics, and struggles for power.

The narrative arc of Crooked Earth is centered around the Anzac family, which is led by patriarch Old Pop (George Henare). The deeply-rooted Maori family prides itself on their lineage of noble warriors. The upkeep of their land and the respect for their ancient traditions is an indispensable part of their lives. Amidst this backdrop, the movie primarily follows the story of two brothers, Will (Temuera Morrison) and Kahu (Lawrence Makoare). Both characters provide varying perspectives and angles to the tumultuous narrative of the film.

The movie begins with the return of Will, an ex-Special Forces Vietnam War vet to his tribal community after a long absence. Burdened with the trauma of the war and estranged from his roots, Will finds it challenging to merge into the fabric of his old community. Morrison, best known for his work in Once Were Warriors, deftly portrays the character, crafting an emotionally resonant character that audiences can empathize with.

At the same time, the spotlight is on Kahu, brilliantly played by Lawrence Makoare, who is deeply entrenched in the traditions and customs of his people. He suffices his father's role as the tribal chief after his death. Kahu's strong and steadfast dedication to uphold his father's legacy and carry forward the traditions forms an integral part of the plot narrative.

However, the tranquility and peaceful existence of the clan become compromised when conflicts arise over land ownership. The Anzac family's precious ancestral land, considered sacred by Maori customs and occupied by the community for over a century, stands threatened. The land is on the brink of being taken over by industrial developers which leads to the surfacing of tension and disagreements within the community.

Adding another layer of complexity is the character of Rau, portrayed by Jaime Passier-Armstrong, Will's and Kahu's sister, stuck in the middle of the feud, torn between her loyalty towards her family and the love she has for her community. Her poignant portrayal addresses the struggles of women, their roles and their voice in a patriarchal tribal society, making her character unforgettable.

Thematically, the film dwells on respect for ancestral land, family bonds, the struggle for power within communities, and the impact of Western influence on Indigenous cultures. It skillfully contrasts the traditional beliefs held by communities and their struggle to preserve them in an ever-evolving world. It is apparent that the movie challenges the viewers, provokes their thought on respect for indigenous cultures, and evokes a sense of belonging and identity.

Crooked Earth employs lush New Zealand landscapes to provide a visually stunning backdrop to the narrative. The cinematography is breathtaking, using nature and the Maori homeland to instill a raw and authentic essence to the movie. There are several scenes that showcase the landscape, wildlife, and the awe-inspiring beauty of the area.

Directed by Sam Pillsbury, Crooked Earth's screenplay is a powerful and heart-wrenching drama that effectively portrays the struggles of an indigenous community against encroaching modern influences. The narrative captures the raw energy and intensity of familial conflicts, the preservation of cultural heritage, and the clash of ideologies regarding land ownership. The strong performances of the cast amplify the emotional intensity of the film.

Overall, Crooked Earth is a thought-provoking and emotional journey that showcases the resilience and strength of a community amidst internal and external struggles. The movie's brilliant performances, robust storyline, and stunning cinematography offer a genuinely immersive viewing experience. It is a film that will linger long after the credits roll, inviting viewers to reflect on the importance of cultural preservation and the significance of land and heritage to indigenous communities.