Whale Rider (2003)

This is a soft-spoken, spiritually based tale that grows on you as it unfolds. This movie faithfully and sensitively depicts the beliefs, languages, and traditions of the people of Papua, New Guinea in a story strongly reminiscent of the Inuit peoples of Alaska. The artwork and language are intricate and beautiful. The preteen protagonist (who had never acted before) delivers an exquisite and authentic portrayal of a young girl who knows she has a call and a mission to serve her people, even if she must take courage because they do not yet recognize or accept her gift. (The men have decided that only men can learn the tribal ways.) Hers is the way of humility and selflessness, which of course cannot shield her from her own grandfather's contempt or her own sorrow. If you enjoyed reading Orson Scott Card's Tales of Alvin Maker series (The Seventh Son, Red Prophet, and four more), you will greatly enjoy the magical realism of this captivating and slightly exotic modern-day mythic tale come true. Five stars.