men's roles in many aspects. The plot has a female 'hero', Pai, who struggles to gain the recognition and respect she deserves from her grandfather in a patriarchal society. Rather than a typical, physically strong, man-solider, a female hero brings in a breath of fresh air for the audience, and instils a sense of awe and amazement at Pai's leadership qualities. Showing the concern for her people, Pai takes on a very mature attitude to the well being of others "You shouldn't smoke. Maori women need to protect their child bearing properties" In one scene the male dominance of Pai's society is shown when her grandfather is taking lessons in 'the ancient ways' in order to find a chief who will lead the Whangara people; Pai sits in the front row an
             ...