Maori Martial Arts Rule the Big Screen in The Dead Lands

Matthew Metcalfe’s feature film The Dead Lands, shot entirely in Te Reo Maori and the first to showcase the ancient Maori martial art mau rakau, is due for official worldwide release early next year.

The film recently had its Australian premiere as part of the Canberra International Film Festival.

Modelled on the ‘80s action thrillers he and director Toa Fraser grew up watching, it was in many ways a traditional story but one that showed New Zealand history in a new light.

“I’m very proud to say that we had our opening weekend in New Zealand just this weekend gone, and it hands down beat Fury, the Brad Pitt film – we were the number one film in the New Zealand box office,” Metcalfe said.

“Everyone’s really delighted about such a strong opening and such a strong response. And I think that’s just because it’s a good ride, an off-the-bat, straight-up-and-down action thriller with traditional elements, great action, great fights and a lot of heart.”

The Dead Landsstars Boy’s James Rolleston, Lawrence Makoare and Rena Owen.

Original article by: Sally Pryor, The Sydney Morning Herald, November 5, 2014