Waru

Waru was a ground-breaking movie released in 2017. Noteworthy for its distinct filming style and stunning performances by Tanea Heke, Roimata Fox, and Ngapaki Moetara, among others, the movie sheds light on the unseen aspects of Maori culture in a manner that is stark, immersive, and emotionally stimulating.

The title "Waru" means "eight" in Maori and symbolizes the eight unique narratives that make up the film. These stories are interconnected by a single traumatic incident – the death of a young Maori boy named Waru. He becomes the unseen binding tie that puts the spectrums of the Maori community in a high-resolution frame. The untimely demise of Waru serves as a metaphorical exploration of the issues confronting Maoris, such as poverty, drug abuse, domestic violence, and child welfare.

Each narrative segment is carefully crafted by a different female Maori director, making Waru an anthology of sorts. The directors – Ainsley Gardiner, Briar Grace-Smith, Casey Kaa, Chelsea Cohen, Katie Wolfe, Paula Whetu Jones, Renae Maihi, and Awanui Simich-Pene – each bring their own perspective to the narratives, creating a stunning tapestry of expressions. Their vision and execution highlight the power of collective storytelling, providing different viewpoints of the same world, and collectively shaping a larger narrative.

The movie has a unique structural approach, where each segment is shot in a single 10-minute take. This approach adds a sense of real-time urgency and rawness that resonates deeply with viewers. It also underlines the movie's commitment to cultural authenticity as the narratives unfold with minimal interference from conventional cinematic techniques.

The lead actors - Tanea Heke, Roimata Fox, and Ngapaki Moetara - deliver powerful performances that significantly contribute to the evocative nature of the film. Their performances, when viewed as part of the larger fabric of the film, bring a palpable sense of authenticity and emotional gravity that stays with the audiences long after they have left the theater.

Tanea Heke, recognised by her contribution to other films like 'Herbs: Songs of Freedom' and 'The New Legends of Monkey,' delivers an exceptional performance, imbuing her character with gusto and sensitivity. Roimata Fox, known for her splendid work in 'The Dead Room' and 'The Dark Horse,' strikes a perfect balance between vulnerability and strength. Ngapaki Moetara's addition to the movie adds another layer of depth and complexity, making the characters' world more textured and multidimensional.

Waru is not just a movie; it's a strong social commentary. It addresses pressing issues afflicting Maori communities while remaining respectful of the culture. It's an exploration of the cultural, emotional, social, and political landscapes of contemporary Maori life, underlining the need for understanding, empathy, and change. The narrative is dense with emotion and reinforced by compelling visuals, making it a provocative and evocative cinematic experience.

Set in New Zealand – the homeland of the Maori culture – the film's landscapes play a supportive role in symbolizing the cultural richness and historical complexity of the Maori community. The movie's setting balances out the intense emotionality of the story with a visual appeal, creating an emotional synergy that greatly enhances the overall cinematic experience.

Without heavily depending on dramatic climaxes or plot twists, Waru handles brutal reality with grace and maturity, maintaining respect for the culture it represents. The movie doesn't shy away from confronting difficult questions nor does it aim to provide a neatly packaged solution. Instead, it invites viewers to participate in a silent dialogue by observing, reflecting, and understanding.

All in all, Waru successfully accomplishes a delicate balancing act - it deals with harsh realities in the heart of a deeply rooted cultural setting, and, at the same time, keeps the audience wholly engrossed with riveting storytelling and captivating performances. It's a captivating cinematic experience that is honest, deeply moving, and thought-provoking. Waru is a testament to the power of collective storytelling and unravels the complexities of human life in a manner that is both subtle and profound. It is a movie that demands to be seen, pondered upon, and discussed.