PaikeaThe other day we watched the beautiful movie Whale Rider. Although it has been out for a couple of years, it was just two days ago that we managed to put our paws on this highly acclaimed film and what a treat it was.

This visually stunning film tells the legendary story of a young Maori girl who struggles to fulfill her destiny while being challenged by a patriarchal community. It is a story about love, redemption, heritage and family ties all woven together in this mystical manner that mates fantasy to reality.

The movie also sheds an important light on the tradition and culture of the indigenous inhabitants of New Zealand through the travails of Paikea, who was wonderfully played by Keisha Castle-Hughes (pictured). It was such a joy to watch Whale Rider that I will watch it again and again. It is highly recommend for troubled souls!