The story of Jake "The Muss" Heke continues in this hard hitting sequel to Once Were Warriors. Beth and their children have left him, but Jake (Morrison) has a new girlfriend and is still immersed in the ways of drinking, singing and fighting anyone that looks at him the wrong way, literally. When his eldest son, Nig, is killed in a gang fight, Jake is confronted by another Heke boy, Sonny (Eruera), who joins a rival gang with Nig's girlfriend, Tania (Brunning), and his mate Mookic (Davis) to avenge his brother's death. Jake must decide whether to shirk responsibility again or to start taking control of the events of his life.
Much like its precursor, the emotional developments and the graphic action sometimes result in uncomfortable viewing, but the direction and performances deliver a first rate drama. Morrison is given the chance to explore the character of Jake much more than in Once Were Warriors, and the audience follows his development as Jake finds himself in situations previously unimagined - keep an eye out for the wild pig hunt. Brunning and Eruera are also standouts as they enter into the world of New Zealand gangs and attempt to bring justice for Nig's murder.