What does the whale symbolize to Koro?
In the film Whale Rider, the whale represents life and death. The whale represents life because it is the mammal on which Paikea’s great ancestor rode across the ocean reaching New Zealand which eventually became the settlement of the Maori people.
What is the main message of Whale Rider?
Despite its focus on Maori culture, the themes in Whale Rider are universal and highlight important communication principles. We see the power of significant others to affect our self esteem, and the fact that, against strong odds, it is possible to assert ourselves and create an identity of our own.
What does the waka represent in Whale Rider?
The WakaThe waka is the ceremonial canoe belong to Pai’s father Porourangi, begun before the death of his wife and his flight overseas, when he still thought to take over as chief. Whale Rider, Internet Movie Database: in the movie it is Koro’s whaletooth pendant [reiputa], the symbol of his chieftainship.
Who is the protagonist in Whale Rider?
Paikea Apirana
Paikea Apirana, or Pai for short, is the main protagonist of the critically-acclaimed independent film Whale Rider.
What kind of whale is Paikea?
| Paikea | |
|---|---|
| Carving at Whāngārā Marae of Paikea riding a whale | |
| Gender | Male |
| Region | Polynesia |
| Ethnic group | Māori, Cook Islands Māori |
What are the themes in Whale Rider?
The Whale Rider, by Witi Ihimaera, is rich in thematic concerns. The mythical story of the whales told alongside the story of Kahu discusses various important issues. The themes include tradition, oneness with nature, destiny and environmental degradation, just to mention a few.
Are the whales in Whale Rider real?
The whales in the movie were depicted using a combination of footage of real whales, life size models (some with humans creating movement) and CGI. Keisha Castle-Hughes said the key whale riding scene took place 15-20 miles offshore and was terrifying.
How old is Pai in Whale Rider?
Pai, an 11-year-old girl in a patriarchal New Zealand tribe, believes she is destined to be the new chief. But her grandfather Koro is bound by tradition to pick a male leader. Pai loves Koro more than anyone in the world, but she must fight him and a thousand years of tradition to fulfill her destiny.
What are the sticks called in Whale Rider?
Koro leads a cultural school for the village’s first-born boys, hoping to find a new leader. He teaches the boys to use a taiaha (fighting stick), which is traditionally reserved for males.
Who does Pai live with?
Pai lives with her grandparents, Koro and Nanny Flowers. 6. Porourangi is angry with Koro, and leaves.
What do whales mean to Maori?
In Maori cosmology, whales are the descendants of Tangaroa, the god of the oceans. They were thought of in awe, as supernatural beings, and often deemed tapu, or sacred. In some, whales were a sign indicating to a tribe that it should settle in a particular place. In others, whales were a guide.
Why is Whale Rider Rated PG 13?
There’s brief strong language regarding female and male genitalia. Characters drink and smoke, and there’s a brief drug reference (a bag of marijuana and drug paraphernalia are shown).
Why did Koro say’i love you’in the Whale Rider?
“‘I love you,’ Koro Apirana said.” This quote is from Koro, addressed to Kahu. It is important because it represents the redemption of Koro and the great shift in his heart. Never before has he acknowledged or expressed any love for his great-granddaughter, which is what makes this expression momentous.
How is Pai Apirana related to the Whale Rider?
Pai is descended from the legendary whale rider, Paikea. Her mother dies of childbirth and so does her brother. Koro reluctantly takes her in and raises her as her own, but, worrying about what he believes is right for the tribe, sees no use for her.
Which is the best quote from the Whale Rider?
― Witi Ihimaera, quote from The Whale Rider “Even the good guys,’ she said, ‘can’t win all the time.” ― Witi Ihimaera, quote from The Whale Rider “… the love which Kahu received from Koro Apirana was the sort that dropped off the edge of the table, like breadcrumbs after everybody else has had a big meal.”
What did the Whale Rider say to the baby?
The Whale Rider Quotes and Analysis “‘Never mind girl,’ she said to baby Kahu. ‘Your birth cord is here. No matter where you may go, you will always return.