Tracker

Tracker is a compelling, action-filled period drama that was released in 2010. Directed by Ian Sharp, in this gripping movie we see the highly acclaimed actor Ray Winstone taking lead alongside Nicholas McGough and Gareth Reeves. The movie paints a vivid narrative in the backdrop of New Zealand in the early 1900s, while it takes you on a thrilling journey woven with elements of drama, suspense, action, and gripping human emotions.

Ray Winstone, a British powerhouse with a track record of commanding performances in various high-profile films, delivers yet another stunning performance as Arjan van Diemen in Tracker. In this post-Boer War drama, Winstone assumes the role of a skilled Boer guerilla fighter from South Africa who eventually lands feet in colonial New Zealand at the start of the 20th century.

In the new landscape, his survival skills and tracking capabilities get tested when he finds himself entangled in intriguing circumstances that require him to leverage his experience and prowess. Here he comes across a Maori seaman, Kereama, portrayed with equal charm and depth by Temuera Morrison. Kereama becomes the center of van Diemen’s interest when he is wrongly accused of murder by the British army's man on a mission, Major Pritchard Carlysle played by Gareth Reeves. Winstone as Arjan van Diemen takes on the task to bring Kereama to justice, setting off a suspenseful and thrilling manhunt across the stunning landscapes of New Zealand.

Characters played by Nicholas McGough, Andy Anderson, and other talent also add depth to the narrative. Each plays a significant role in successfully transporting the audience to the era of the 1900s, presenting the cultural, political, and societal nuances of the time.

Tracker from a viewpoint of cinematography is a visual treat, awash with the mesmerizing and breath-taking landscapes of New Zealand. Cinematographer Harvey Harrison has skillfully captured the raw natural beauty of the country, making the land itself a strong character within the movie.

Not just stunning visuals, Tracker also delivers a captivating narrative that effortlessly blends the elements of history, politics, and personal drama. The narrative traverses the themes of war, imperialism, racial injustice, cultural conflict, and promises a multi-layered story that strikes a balance between raw action, emotional depth, and subtle humanity.

The script, written by Nicolas Van Pallandt, provides the characters with profound depths, rich backstories, and powerful dialogues that breathe life into the plot. It does a remarkable job of blending suspense, inherent drama, and vivid characterization to keep the audience hooked till the end. Each character's intricate development allows the audience to immerse themselves in the narrative, empathizing with their struggles and sharing their wins.

In the score, the music composed by David Donaldson, Steve Roche, and Janet Roddick complements the visual narrative by underscoring the emotional depth and moments of dramatic tension. The soundtrack, with a soulful touch of the local Maori musical influence, adds cultural authenticity to the film.

Tracker appeals to a wide range of audiences. For history buffs, it presents a vivid depiction of the times following the Boer War, the nuances of colonial politics and its impact on the local population. For action movie enthusiasts, it serves up a thrilling manhunt laden with exciting twists and suspense. For those interested in human drama and personal narratives, it offers a deep exploration of characters dealing with their past, survival, identity, and justice.

In a nutshell, Tracker is much more than just a period action film. It presents a thrilling chase, a war veteran’s struggle for normalcy, a man’s fight for justice, cultural conflicts, and a complex narrative about survival and identity. Infused with stunning cinematography, powerful performances, and buttressed by an evocative score, Tracker makes for an engaging watch.