Once Were Warriors background creation

Based on the controversial novel by Maori author Allen Dorff, the film reflects the problems of the integration of Maori in New Zealand's modern society. Poverty, unemployment, alcoholism, domestic violence, sexism and the uncertainty and marginalization of young people. The dull music and the drab drab imagery of earth tones imply that all the people in the film—whether because of their circumstances or their own personalities—are caught in their own troubles, and confronted with the huge gap between reality and tradition. The only thing that can fight against fate and defend dignity is the "warrior spirit" of the Maori people. Director Lee Tamahori is also a Maori, so this work infused with his own national emotions is real and vivid, full of cultural heritage, rather than limited to the category of pure domestic violence films. The film not only set box office records when it was released locally in New Zealand. It is also widely acclaimed internationally. Director and star Tamura Morrison has since become a Hollywood regular.