Set in 1830 this New Zealand film tells the story of a lay preacher called Thomas Munro who becomes entangled in a war between two Maori tribes and the ambitions and lax morality of early British settlers.
Press play to watch the review:
Munro is played exceedingly well by Australian actor Guy Pearce who gives a measured and stoic performance as the man caught between two different worlds.
The movie is brilliantly acted and the story is engaging and novel. It thankfully avoids cliches, and illustrates the good, bad, and cruel in all societies no matter their origin.
The film is elevated by the stunning cinematography and very authentically created costumes, sets and locations.
The Convert is a fascinating and thought provoking movie about the beginnings of modern Aotearoa New Zealand.
So how did I score it?
Acting 8 /10
Story/Script 8 /10
Cinematography 8 /10
Set/Costumes 8 /10
Entertainment value 8 /10
That gives The Convert an average score of 8 / 10
THE CONVERT
Starring: Guy Pearce, Te Kohe Tuhaka, Tioreore Ngatai-Melbourne, Antonio Te Maioha, Jacqueline McKenzie, Lawrence Makoare, Dean O’Gorman, Madeleine McCarthy, Duane Wichman-Evans Jr.
Directed by: Lee Tamahori
Duration: 119 Minutes
Open in New Zealand – 14th March 2024
