Whale Rider

How is Whale Rider a good example of a mythological story?

* Based on a myth/legend- a story from the past, popularly regarded as historical although not verifiable. Elements of culture/traditions, a quest with a hero etc.

* Voice-over of Paikea explaining the legend of her ancestor Paikea throughout the film (story-telling technique in the style of a myth or legend) and her journey to become the next leader.

* The music creates a mystical mood, enhances that Paikea’s journey is incredible and the importance of ancestry. Music is made up of a mixture of Maori songs, whale sounds, sea sounds and instrumental music.

* The structure of the plot- orientation, complication, climax, resolution.

* The development of a ‘hero’ type character who faces the challenges placed in front of her and achieves her goal, even though she puts her life in danger.

* Paikea’s journey to become the leader of the tribe. Where does Paikea show her aptitude for leadership? What obstacles must she face?

* Incredible, supernatural events- The birth of the destined one, calling the whales and their response, riding the whale.

* A moral/lesson of the story- If you believe in yourself you can achieve your goals. It should not matter what age or gender you are, these are not the determining factors in achieving your goals.

Are these themes from Whale Rider presented in the same way from other myths you may have read? (Create a table to show the similarities and differences)

* Love

* Wisdom

* Leadership

* Cultural influences-Maori beliefs in the form of motifs

* Man’s relationship with the natural world

* Role of women

What are the key scenes from the film which highlight some of these mythological elements/themes?

* Beginning scene of the film

* Breaking of the rope (tie to ancestors)

* Paikea diving for the whale tooth

* Paikea’s winning school speech

* Koro and Pai calling to the whales

* Beached whales...