Movie spotlight
Crooked Earth
Will Bastion returns home from the army after an absence of 20 years to bury his father, the former chief of thee Maori tribe, Ngati Kaipuku. The eldest son, he is reluctant to inherit his fathers role, so it is taken more willingly by his younger brother, Kahu. Kahu is the leader of a band of drug dealers and trouble-makers who ride horses through the middle of town, wrecking peoples gardens. Under the guise of refusal of a land settlement, Kahu makes a large marijuana deal with some murdering city folk. Will must choose between loyalty for his brother and his father, Maori tradition, and contemporary financial issues.
Insights
Plot Summary
In a rural village in England, a father and son struggle to save their family farm from financial ruin. Facing the prospect of losing their ancestral land, they must confront their own strained relationship and rally the community to protect their way of life. The film explores themes of tradition, resilience, and the impact of modern pressures on a close-knit farming community.
Critical Reception
Crooked Earth received a generally positive reception, particularly for its earnest portrayal of rural life and strong performances from its lead actors. Critics often highlighted its heartfelt narrative and its examination of the challenges faced by traditional farming in contemporary society. While not a major box office success, it resonated with audiences who appreciated its authentic depiction of community spirit and family struggles.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for its touching and authentic depiction of rural English life.
Timothy Spall and Miranda Richardson deliver compelling performances as a struggling farming couple.
The film effectively captures the emotional weight of preserving family heritage against economic odds.
Google audience: Information on Google user reviews for 'Crooked Earth (2001)' is not readily available.
Awards & Accolades
None notable.
Fun Fact
The film was based on the novel of the same name by American author Bernard Ashley, though the setting was adapted to a rural English landscape.
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