A Maori tribe in New Zealand believe they are descended from Paikei, the Whale Rider. Traditionally for 1000 years a male has been born to be chief. The Chief's oldest son fathers twins, but the boy and his mother die during childbirth. The little girl is named Pai. Her father leaves her to be raised by her grandparents. Pai's grandfather refuses to recognize his granddaughter as inheritor of the title Chief. The Chief becomes convinced that the misfortunes of the tribe are caused by Pai's birth. When the whales begin to beach themselves, her grandfather is sure that this signals the end of his people. It takes the Whale Rider to convince him otherwise.
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- IMDb: Whale Rider (2002) Provides pictures, reviews, cast, and crew information.
- National Geographic: Whale Rider and the Fight for Indigenous Films Article explores the challenges native filmmakers face to have their voices heard.
- World Film: Digital Whales and Female Empowerment A negative review of Niki Caro's "Whale Rider" starring Keisha Castle-Hughes.
- HARO Online: Whale Rider Pictures and a review of the New Zealand film about the myths of the Maori and how it affects a young girl.
- Rotten Tomatoes: Whale Rider (2003) Provides reviews, trailer, photographs, news, articles, and forum.