Crooked Earth

Although important in highlighting cultural divides still prevalent in New Zealand, I couldn't help but feel this drew too much from Hollywood Westerns. So many of the the storylines and sub-plots have all been done before, albeit in different settings.

Id never seen this movie and yet it was popular with the rest of my family (grown up kids). I find the plot very realistic about what is happening in New Zealand to Maori and the conflicts they face trying to hold onto their cultural ties to the land, their identity and living amidst the umbrella of colonization, westernization and the concepts of westernization being individualism and materialism Vs Tribal sovereignty. It shows the adaptability of Maori to their circumstances. That they can produce, act and put together this drama for others to realise their dilemma - show great creative flair and an ability to reach across cultures to ask for others to understand their plights and trials. Loved it, loved the acting and the deeper issues that face off between cultures of conflict expected to live harmoniously. It brings out the pathos of Maori and their warrior spirit to survive the political BS. I think this movie - should be resubmitted for another global distribution now that china, Russia are in the democratic race for global expansion. Will highlight the plight of what is to come for other indigenous peoples.

I saw the impressive trailer for Crooked Earth in the cinemas and had heard many different reviews.When I finally rented it I was pleasantly surprised.

The cinematography is stunning, catching many rugged but beautiful landscapes of New Zealand. The land issues thing is definitely tired but overall the film had a good mix of shoot-me-ups, drama, romance, stunts, drugs and violence, if not a little too Americanised but that's ok.

The overall cast was very good. It was refreshing to to see Temuera Morrison ("Once Were Warriors") playing a good guy for once and I thought he was pretty good at playing Wiremu, especially in comparrision to many of his other films. There were standouts from Jaime Passier-Armstrong ("Jubilee") who delivered a strong performance playing the daughter of Wiremu and from Quinton Hita (from Mai Time)who played the rugged country boy with a cool horse! I liked the guy who played the cop and Nancy Brunning ("What Becomes of the Broken Hearted") is always wonderful to watch.

I think Crooked Earth is worth seeing as its got lots of great stunts, chopper shots and theres a good mix of humour to break up the drama. An action flick that is home grown!

"Crooked Earth" is a powerfully engaging movie that delves into controversial, yet highly important issues. These issues include- land disputes, cultural oppression and misunderstanding, family dynamics, and generational differences. Whilst such issues may be unsettling to some viewers, they are a timely reminder of the tensions that exist in this world and if left unchecked, they have the potential to destroy us all (whether it be physically, spiritually or emotionally). Moreover, the material covered in "Crooked Earth" is highly universal, and symbolises the struggle that many groups experience in this world.

Essentially, "Crooked Earth" focuses on the strained relationship between two Maori brothers- Will (Temuera Morrison) has just returned from army duties in East Timor and is somewhat reluctant to face the traditions and responsibilities associated with the Maori culture. Alternatively, Carl (Lawerence Makaore) is embittered by the way Maori are treated in New Zealand, and strongly advocates the need for Maori to stand up for their rights. Both men are entangled in a conflict over the treatment of tribal land (not to mention their ideological differences), and this ultimately leads to the inevitable 'showdown'.

A notable feature of "Crooked Earth" is the stunning cinematography. The rural landscape shots are truly breathtaking, and it clearly illustrates the strong connection between the Maori and the land. The performances in the movie are also worthy of praise, with Temuera Morrison and Lawerence Makaore portraying the troubled brothers with sincerity and control. Probably the only downfall is the inclusion of the 'Drug-Lord/ Henchman' character. Not only does he look out of place in the movie, he only serves to detract from the main issues at hand.

At times, it seems as if "Crooked Earth" tries to cover more territory than it actually can. This leads to some issues not being as well developed as they could be. For instance, we never seem to get to the heart of the relationship between Will and his daughter.

In all, I find "Crooked Earth" to be a beautifully sad story that raises many important issues. It is highly thought-provoking movie, and is therefore open to many interpretations.

Highly recommended.

Crooked Earth has a lot of depth to it. Featuring one main storyline, but with multiple undertones. Different characters taking us to the same destination via their own personal journeys.

Temuera Morrison plays a typically strong and defined character. Showing bursts of power like only he can. Being well supported by a variety of actors, each with their own presence on screen.

Crooked Earth is another fine New Zealand movie. Beautifully filmed but still raw. The scripts sound real, giving the actors believability and edge. The story touches nerves that certainly run deep.

If you are a fan of Temuera Morrison, put Crooked Earth down at the top of your list. Up there with Once Were Warriors and What Becomes of the Broken Hearted. Three great movies featuring a powerful and proud New Zealand actor.