The Dead Lands (2014)
The Dead Lands is a New Zealand action-adventure film directed by Toa Fraser, set in pre-colonial New Zealand and rooted in the Māori culture. The film tells the story of Hongi (James Rolleston), a young Māori chieftain’s son who embarks on a journey of vengeance after his tribe is massacred by a rival group led by the ruthless Wirepa (Te Kohe Tuhaka).
Hongi must travel through the forbidden “Dead Lands” to seek the help of a mysterious, fearsome warrior (Lawrence Makoare) who is rumored to possess supernatural fighting abilities. Together, they face numerous challenges as they confront enemies, both human and spiritual, to restore honor and justice to Hongi’s tribe.
The Dead Lands is celebrated for its authentic depiction of Māori culture, traditional weapons, and hand-to-hand combat techniques, including the use of the martial art Mau rākau. The film showcases stunning landscapes and intense, visceral battle sequences, grounded in Māori mythology and warrior traditions.
The film received praise for its cultural significance and action-packed storytelling, becoming a symbol of Māori pride and a visually captivating journey into ancient traditions and warrior codes. It is a tale of revenge, survival, and redemption, deeply rooted in the lore and history of the Māori people.
Susgessted video for you:
The Legend of a Hero Specializing in Hunting the Most Terrible Monsters in Greece
Snowpiercer (2014)