Backbencher

This is the most boldly put film in recent memory, an uncompromising array of domestic abuse told as the story of a poverty ridden Maori family that is struggling under the fist of its brutal father.

Jake Heke rules his wife and five children with a closed hand, which is also how he deals with any sort of disagreement, especially when hes drunk. His wife Beth puts up with his brutality, his cheating, and his broken promises even his raping her.

But her loyalty and love for Jake will eventually be gone, especially as she comes to realize just how seriously her own children are at risk.Jakes rage is understandable to some degree. As the title suggests, the Maori people were once warriors, but there is no outlet for that fearsome heritage in modern day New Zealand.

And as the film introduces the audience into the Heke clan, its easy to see how charismatic and winning this hulking, tattooed fellow is. And how easily Beth is seduced by him.But in every situation, no matter how begins, there is an element of suspense, the feeling that it won't take much to push Jakes buttons and begin another outburst.

Beths attempts to filter this entire are at first pointless. In fact, she doesnt really come to her senses until she realizes her two oldest sons may already be corrupted by Jakes violent example as one goes to a juvenile detention home, the other joins a gang. The question becomes, can she save her three youngest children?

All of this is specific to a Maori ghetto in a New Zealand setting, with ethnic pride playing a big part in the story. But there is no question as to the subject and its treatment.

It is a unique observation of domestic violence and a tribute to the wives who ultimately refuse to be victims, in the end the film demonstrates that women are the real warriors. I would recommend this film to you if you can stomach the harsh realities of real life.