> Something positive to focus on. It is considered as one of the best Kiwi films ever. Inspired by a real person with the severe bipolar disorder. The story centres on the character Genesis Potini, a chess prodigy. Despite his mental issue, he forms a chess club called the Eastern Knights where the underprivileged kids are trained. The film follows his own struggle, as well as his fight for other Maori descent youngsters not to fall prey for the wrong paths. In that perspective, it was very well told tale. It is not another 'Once Were Warriors', but it had its moments. Especially the Maori people with their struggle between the good life and bad life was boldly revealed. Honestly, I did not enjoy much, but won't deny it is a nice film with a good message. I'm happy that I picked it, except I'm not the audience for it. Because the large portion of the film remained dull due to the 2 hour long stretch. I would have been very happy if it was around a 90 minute narration. So the actors were the plus point. Some of them had no prior experience, but did well and was recognised widely. Whatever it is, Cliff Curtis is the man of the film. He won a couple of International awards for the role he played. Like I said the first half was boring, but once the chess theme come into play, the scenario changes and lots of good things happens. I feel it is an inspiring film at a different level. Worth a watch, but it is not a very cheerful screenplay. So I don't think everybody would end up happy, despite a very interesting theme. 6/10
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American-born Anna Vorontosov teaches school in a remote, primitive section of northern New Zealand. Her experimental teaching methods have won her the love and affection of her pupils and their parents and the admiration of the unhappily married school inspector, Abercrombie. Her personal life, however, is less secure; frightened of love and sexually inhibited, she has always been aloof with men. Eager to break down this barrier is Englishman Paul Lathrope, a somewhat irrational and immature fellow teacher who aspires to be a singer. Though Anna is attracted to him, she refuses to submit to his advances.
How the tragic death of one man triggered a David and Goliath battle between two Allies that echoed around the world and became the catalyst to end nuclear testing in the Pacific.