Powerful and Intense (Once Were Warriors (DVD))

Member Name: OriginalReview

Product:	Once Were Warriors (DVD)
Date:	30/06/09 (20 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Powerful Story, Convincing Script, Intense and Important Issues.

Disadvantages: Some below-par performances from the supporting cast.

Once Were Warriors received copious amounts of praise from critics, however, was it merited? The answer isn't clear cut, it certainly deserves credit but perhaps not quite the amount it received. The film is important, intense and ultimately engrossing although few would consider it traditionally entertaining.

Set in New Zealand the film deals with the trials of Beth's marriage to the charismatic Jake, unfortunately he is extremely violent and abuses alcohol in an attempt to impress at his local bar. Beth suffers vicious assaults at the whim of Jake's volatile temper, yet she stoically endures the attacks. As Jake's behaviour begins to threaten not only her children's future but also their very present safety forcing Beth into a decision she has delayed for eighteen years.

The script is extremely powerful and provides shocks that are convincing within the plot rather than being shoehorned in for their own sake. The issues dealt with are serious and can be disturbing, especially for people who may have suffered similar abuse in their own lives. As difficult a watch as it can be at points, the film is ultimately rewarding for a viewer willing to consider the plight of the characters.

The only drawback of this film is perhaps the uneven quality of acting, particularly within the supporting cast. Thankfully, this detracts little from the overall quality of the film due to the powerful plot.

Summary: An intense film on the horrors of domestic violence