Guy Pearce stars as a British preacher caught up in 1830s Māori wars in Lee Tamahori’s (Once Were Warriors, 1993) sweeping historical drama.

When Thomas Munro (Pearce) arrives in the tiny coastal settlement of Epworth in 1830, he finds discontent, suspicion and friction. After saving the life of a chief’s daughter, Rangimai (Tioreore Ngatai-Melbourne, Hunt for the Wilderpeople), Munro is thrust into political intrigue during the devastating Musket Wars between Māori tribes. Tamahori paints a meticulously detailed portrait of Māori communities and culture in the early days of colonialism, whilst expertly weaving in Munro’s troubled past which intrudes on the increasingly bloody conflict surrounding him. Stunningly filmed in widescreen on location, including Whatipū beach, The Convert delivers gripping drama and extraordinary action.

Rating

MA15+

Duration

119 MINS