Based on Maori writer Witi Ihimaera's novel, this 2002 film details a girl's dream of becoming chief of her tribe
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Witi Ihimaera, the author of what has become a classic, was the first Maori writer 
.... Kahu tries to fulfill her dream that her grandfather doesn't seem to recognize,... [DOC] [TLE] Review for Whale Rider (2002) - IMDb [PAR] In the summer of 1986, when Maori writer Witi Ihimaera was serving in ... half a 
world away, about a chief who rode in from the sea on the back of a whale, ... 
Ihimaera put a feminist spin on the old story, and wrote a best-selling novel, ... "
Having a girl ride the whale, which is also a symbol of patriarchy," says Ihimaera, 
"was... [DOC] [TLE] Whale Rider Reviews & Ratings - IMDb [PAR] Screenplay author and director Niki Caro faithfully translated Witi Ihimaera's ...