Movie spotlight
Call It Courage
Call It Courage is a story set in the Pacific Islands. It chronicles the journey of Mafatu, the son of the chief of Hikueru Island, Tavana Nui. Mafatu is afraid of the sea due to witnessing his mother die as a young child, which makes him a shame to his father, and referred to as a coward among his tribe. One night Mafatu takes a dugout canoe and sets sail into the ocean without knowing where he will end up. He is caught in a storm and the canoe is lost. He lands on a deserted island and learns to hunt and fish for himself, along with his companions Uri, a yellow dog, and Kivi, an albatross.
Insights
Plot Summary
This short film tells the story of a young Polynesian boy named Mafatu who is ostracized by his tribe due to his fear of the sea. Determined to prove his bravery, he embarks on a perilous solo voyage in a canoe, facing storms, sharks, and the challenges of survival. His journey is one of self-discovery and overcoming his deepest fears to return home with honor.
Critical Reception
As a short educational film, 'Call It Courage' likely received positive reception within its intended audience and for its thematic content. It is often cited for its valuable lessons on courage and overcoming adversity, particularly for younger viewers. Specific critical reviews from the era are scarce.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for its inspiring narrative of overcoming fear.
Valued for its portrayal of a young boy's resilience.
Seen as an effective educational tool for themes of bravery and self-reliance.
Google audience: Information regarding specific Google user reviews for this short film is not readily available.
Fun Fact
The story 'Call It Courage' is based on the 1940 novel of the same name by Dutch-American author Armstrong Sperry, which won the Newbery Medal in 1941.
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