A family descended from Maori warriors is bedeviled by a violent father and the societal problems of being treated as outcasts.
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Title: Once Were Warriors (1994)
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22 wins & 6 nominations.
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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 | |
Edit
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:
Her only chance for the future is to embrace the power of her past. 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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See more on IMDbPro »
See full technical specs »
Details
Country:
New ZealandRelease Date:
3 March 1995 (USA) See more »Also Known As:
A Alma dos Guerreiros See more »Edit
Box Office
Gross USA:
$1,608,570Cumulative Worldwide Gross:
$1,608,570Company Credits
Show more on
IMDbPro »
Technical Specs
Runtime:
Color:
Color (Eastmancolor)Aspect Ratio:
1.85 : 1
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Did You Know?
Trivia
Eventually a local police commander, Rana Waitai, gave an impassioned speech about the importance of the film, and this convinced the New Zealand Film Commission to back the project. See more »Goofs
Blood disappears and reappears on Beth's chin. See more »Crazy Credits
Before the ending credits start, a giant 'END' covers the screen. See more »Frequently Asked Questions
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This is a film that should be seen by everyone. A powerful movie that will stir almost every emotion you can think of, and sometimes all at once. Completely believable and compelling film that will hold you till the very end, and a long time after.