By Kimya Hedayatzadeh

Paikea (Keisha Castle-Hughes) was not supposed to be a girl. At least, she was not supposed to survive childbirth when her twin brother did not. Her brother was to be a leader of their people, one who would bring them out of poverty and into better times. But all hope of this was shattered when the tribe lost both Paikea's mother and brother during childbirth.

Paikea's grandfather, Koro (Rawiri Paratene), was most hurt by the tragedy. For many years, he had patiently waited for a leader among their people, believing in vain that Paikea's brother would fill the role.

Early in her childhood, Pai is a shy girl who seems close to her grandfather. His desperation for a leader is great, however, and he begins to believe that Pai brings only bad luck and bad omens to their tribe. Koro makes it clear that as a girl, she will never master the skills of previous leaders, never be a leader, never bring her people out of darkness.

Instead of shrinking, Pai becomes more assertive in Koro's presence. Despite his discouragement, she strengthens throughout the movie in her thirst to prove herself to her grandfather.

In search of a great leader, Koro starts a school for boys, teaching them arts and skills, including memorization of important passages, self-defense, and other traditions. Pai is not allowed to watch, although she remains an attentive spy. She teaches herself, with the help of friends, to master the skills the boys have been taught, and even outwits some of the boys on occasion.

When Koro finds her practicing the sacred traditions of the school and proving herself against a boy, he is furious, saying she has broken the frame of the school, disrespected its traditions, and maybe even ruined the prospect of a new leader and prophet.

As Pai attempts to prove her ability to learn and her respect for the traditions of their people is as strong as any man’s, Koro furthers himself from her. Her dearest wish is for his praise, recognition, and his respect. Somehow she needs to make Koro look past her gender and to consider her as a worthy and valuable part of their tribe.

Pai finds pieces of her identity as the film progresses. She discovers that she is not just a girl, and not a prophet, or scholar, but a member of her tribe, an equal to all, and an important participant. Koro's recognition of her talents and ability is realized after much pain and distress. Yet, when he does, their tribe thrives, as every individual's offering to the tribe is valued and used. The leaders are not chosen men and warriors, but the men and women are strong warriors together.

Paikea not only unearths her own identity, but restores the identity of the tribe. She is able to change the hopeless attitude and bleak future of her people into a restoration of power and strength. All of the tribe has a purpose now; they have potential both as individuals and as a people.

Niki Caro's "Whale Rider" not only contains a fascinating story that looks at gender equality in a new way, but has wonderful dialogue and beautiful New Zealand scenery to go along with it—gorgeous fields of grass, and an ocean so inspiring and reflective of the characters in the movie.

Watching the movie many times, I always find myself caught within the thoughts of Paikea and her grandfather. There is something about her meek yet fervent character that causes viewers to have great respect and awe for her. Although a more minor character in the plot, Pai's grandmother also represents a strong, independent woman who encourages Paikea in her endeavors.

Although there was many a time that I desperately wanted to magically plunge my hand through the television screen and give Mr. Koro a good slap in the face, I gradually came to understand why he had difficulty accepting Pai. He was so caught in the lose of a leader, waiting and waiting for "the one," that he missed the one who had the ability to make everyone realize they could all succeed as one.

Pai's speeches and dialogue gradually uncover her identity as an individual and a member of the tribe. History, skills, and gender all would contribute to the tribe's success, and no one could be turned away if that success and victory was going to be achieved.

"We can learn and if the knowledge is given to everyone—then we can have lots of leaders, and soon everyone will be strong—not just the ones that have been chosen—because sometimes even if you're the leader and you need to be strong—you can get tired."

"My name is Paikea Apirana. I'm not a prophet, but I know our people will keep going forward with all of our strength."