Movie spotlight
Patriots
A family who call themselves true patriots of Lithuania is preparing for a special celebration - their son's send-off to the volunteer army. The father is the happiest about his son's choice, as he divides people into only two groups: patriots and traitors to the state. But as the farewell approaches, the joy is replaced by increasing tension, until finally, hidden emotions erupt. Conflicts of values come to the surface, and the attempts of the household to prove their devotion to their homeland begin to teeter on the edge of the absurd. In the end, it turns out that the true patriots are not those who speak loudly of their love for their country.
Insights
Plot Summary
In 19th-century New Zealand, a young Māori man is caught between his people's traditions and the encroaching influence of British settlers and missionaries. As tensions rise, he must navigate a path that could lead to conflict or reconciliation.
Critical Reception
Patriots received a mixed to positive reception, with critics praising its historical scope and performances, while some found its pacing and narrative occasionally uneven. It was particularly noted for its portrayal of a significant period in New Zealand's history.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for its ambitious attempt to depict a complex historical period.
Performances, particularly from the younger cast, were often highlighted.
Some critics felt the film could have benefited from tighter editing or a more focused narrative.
Google audience: Audiences generally appreciated the film's historical subject matter and its efforts to represent Māori culture, though some noted it was a slow burn.
Fun Fact
The film, originally titled 'Mahana,' faced distribution challenges and controversy in New Zealand due to its depiction of a Māori community.
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