A family descended from Maori warriors is bedeviled by a violent father and the societal problems of being treated as outcasts.
Director:
Lee Tamahori
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Title: Once Were Warriors (1994)
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22 wins & 6 nominations.
See more awards »
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Cast
| 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 | |
 |
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) | |
|
|
Ray Bishop | ... | King Hitter (in pub) |
| Ian Mune | ... | Judge | |
Learn more
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Plot Summary
|
Plot Synopsis
Storyline
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>
Taglines:
A family in crisis, a life in chaos... Nothing is more powerful than a mother's love. See more »Motion Picture Rating (MPAA)
Rated R for pervasive language and strong depiction of domestic abuse, including sexual violence and substance abuse | See all certifications »Parents Guide:
View content advisory »
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Did You Know?
Trivia
Temuera Morrison fought hard to keep the role once it was offered to him, even though he struggled to master it. He knew that the role was a huge challenge and that it would be the making of him as an actor. See more »Goofs
When Beth is being beaten by Jake at the start of the film she is thrown into a mirror which shatters completely. Later when the children are cleaning up the mess the mirror is back on the wall with only a few cracks. See more »Crazy Credits
Before the ending credits start, a giant 'END' covers the screen. See more »
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Details
Country:
New ZealandRelease Date:
3 March 1995 (USA) See more »Also Known As:
Once Were Warriors See more »Edit
Box Office
Gross USA:
$1,608,570Cumulative Worldwide Gross:
$1,608,570Company Credits
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Technical Specs
Runtime:
Color:
Color (Eastmancolor)Aspect Ratio:
1.85 : 1Contribute to This Page
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This movie is almost 10 years old and I just saw it tonight and I was left emotionally drained. This movie is one of the best I have ever seen the acting was first rate and the emotions left me drained I would recommend this to anyone but beware or it's stark reality. This is a wonderfully directed and acted film.