Only New Zealanders could make a movie about people whose tribal leaders ride whales, and not turn it into Free Willy.

This film tells the story of a Maori girl trying to find her place in the community, and to be accepted by her grandfather. The grandfather is searching for the next chief, a traditionally male responsibility which should have been taken by our heroine's dead twin brother.

The focus of this movie is on challenging stereotypical roles, and this applies to more than just a girl taking on a male leadership role in her community. The male characters actually talk about their feelings, and only a few cameo characters are in trouble with the law.

The whale footage is beautiful in more of a Discovery Channel than a Disney style, and the acting is superb (especially Castle-Hughes, the young lead). Kids will love the mythical elements of this movie, but this isn't just a kids' flick. Serious issues are addressed with sensitivity, including death, the role of men in raising boys instead of letting them run amok, and gender roles