Cast overview, first billed only: | |||
Rena Owen | ... | Beth Heke | |
Temuera Morrison | ... | Jake Heke | |
Mamaengaroa Kerr-Bell | ... | Grace Heke | |
Julian Arahanga | ... | Nig Heke | |
Taungaroa Emile | ... | Boogie Heke | |
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Rachael Morris Jr. | ... | Polly Heke |
Joseph Kairau | ... | Huata Heke | |
Cliff Curtis | ... | Bully | |
Pete Smith | ... | Dooley | |
George Henare | ... | Bennett | |
Mere Boynton | ... | Mavis | |
Shannon Williams | ... | Toot | |
Calvin Tuteao | ... | Taka (Gang Leader) | |
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Ray Bishop | ... | King Hitter (in pub) |
Ian Mune | ... | Judge |
Set in urban Auckland (New Zealand) this movie tells the story of the Heke family. Jake Heke is a violent man who beats his wife frequently when drunk, and yet obviously loves both her and his family. The movie follows a period of several weeks in the family's life showing Jake's frequent outburst of violence and the effect that this has on his family. The youngest son is in trouble with the police and may be put into a foster home while the elder son is about to join a street gang. Jake's daughter has her own serious problems which are a key element in the plot. Written by Chris Maslin <maslinc@cad.canterbury.ac.nz>
OWW is a truly great film. However I feel that people have missed one of the main ideas of the film. That is the fact domestic violence is truly horrifying. And it doesn't just happen in Maori families, it happens all over the world! I am Maori myself and first saw this film at the theatres with a mostly Maori audience. It was very well recieved. I was surprised to read the commentary by Glamwog when she said all of her Maori friends hate it. Oh and by the way not all Maori are as depicted in the movie!
If you haven't seen this film, do yourself a favour...watch it.