
Whina
2022 · 112m
Synopsis
A biopic of the trailblazing Maori leader, Dame Whina Cooper, whose extraordinary life saw her break gender boundaries, champion the rights of Maori, and fight for the land - all the while staying true to her heart and her beliefs.
Trailer

Cast
Paula Whetu Jones
Director

James Napier Robertson
Director

Rena Owen
Older Whina Cooper

Vinnie Bennett
William Cooper

James Rolleston
Gabriel

Sarah Valentine
Elaine

Miriama McDowell
Younger Whina Cooper

Tioreore Ngatai-Melbourne
Teenage Whina Cooper

Kali Kopae
Mira Szászy

Jayden Daniels
Cyril

Erroll Shand
Father Mulder

Awa Puna
Pattie

Richard Te Are
Richard Gilbert

Briar Rose
Stacey
Matu Ngaropo
Apirana Ngata

Wayne Hapi
Heremia Te Wake

Marshayla Christie
Kare
Kasina Campbell
Heretute Te Wake
James Tito
Pita Te Wake
James Lucas
Writer

James Napier Robertson
Writer
Paula Whetu Jones
Writer
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Comments
10 Comments

source: Whina

So many movies today are soulless, candy floss and CGI. This is not one of those movies... A powerful and inspiring story of a pivotal character in New Zealand's history, captivatingly recreated. You know you've seen a great movie when nobody leaves the theatre until the last credit has scrolled. Was left feeling that every 16 year old in this country should see this movie.

A real heart feeled movie and history, I did enjoy every single bit of it. Especially what this leader and her people had to go through. A real piece of history. All the cast delivered an excellent performance, and the director made it very difficult to take your eyes off the screen, every scene express the pain and the courage that this lady had to go through. Well done for it. I definitely recommend it to all of you that are hungry for history and biography. Also a compliment for the costumes and the pictures. The music also very well done. I never saw New Zealand from this angle. I am thankful to all those who worked behind this project.

Whina was a good film about such an influential and passionate figure in New Zealand history. As a New Zealander I was pleased with his film that gave insight into the history and events that have helped shape the modern landscape. I learnt what a brave, strong and fiery person Whina was. She stood up when leadership was needed. History sometimes has a way of glossing over so many key events but it's interesting to note the politics behind so many things. Whina faced opposition and dealt with the politics of standing up for her people. The acting is decent and brings Whina and other historical figures like Sir Apirana Ngata to life. I was glad this film was made and hope to see more decent New Zealand films.

A very interesting story however, film was very mediocre. It felt like watching a performance rather than immersed in it. Whina's character was poorly presented. Little details on historical facts that are key to the story. Very disappointing!

Terrific film and probably for most would be a surprise. Well crafted wonderfully acted the three Whina's in particular. Its an education and reminder of where New Zealand once was and how far we have come. Should be seen in all schools . Highly recommend.


source: Whina

So many movies today are soulless, candy floss and CGI. This is not one of those movies... A powerful and inspiring story of a pivotal character in New Zealand's history, captivatingly recreated. You know you've seen a great movie when nobody leaves the theatre until the last credit has scrolled. Was left feeling that every 16 year old in this country should see this movie.

Terrific film and probably for most would be a surprise. Well crafted wonderfully acted the three Whina's in particular. Its an education and reminder of where New Zealand once was and how far we have come. Should be seen in all schools . Highly recommend.










