Kawa (2010) directed by Katie Wolfe

[reviews_and_ramblings]

An apparently happy family man who must reveal a lifelong secret, that he is gay.

Director: Katie Wolfe

Writers: Witi Ihimaera (based on the novel by), Witi Ihimaera (story), and 1 more credit »

Stars: Calvin Tuteao, Nathalie Boltt and George Henare

Genres: Drama

Storyline: Based on a novel by the creator of The Whale Rider A critically-acclaimed psychological drama depicting a family in crisis, Kawa tells the story of a successful businessman in New Zealand, as he is forced to reveal his lifelong secret that he is gay. Adapted from the Witi Ihimaera novel Nights in the Gardens of Spain by writer/director Katie Wolfe, Kawa stars Calvin Tuteao (Once Were Warriors), Nathalie Bolt (District 9), George Henare (Once Were Warriors), Vicki Haughton (Whale Rider) and Dean O Gorman (McLeod s Daughters). It is tradition that Kawariki (Calvin Tuteao) become the leader of the family now that his father is retiring. A husband and father, he realizes that in order to lead with integrity, he must come out and be honest about his own life, even though it will test the boundaries of acceptance and unconditional love. Offering valuable insights into Maori traditions, family ideals and cultural values, this feature debut is rich and textured with emotional layers and stunning New Zealand landscapes.

@Wolfe on Demand: http://muvi.es/w1745/36489
@IMDb
@Amazon: Kawa (2012)


















Cast (in credits order)
Calvin Tuteao ... Kawariki
Nathalie Boltt ... Annabelle
George Henare ... Hamiora
Vicky Haughton ... Grace
Dean O'Gorman ... Chris
Pana Hema Taylor ... Sebastian (as Pana Hema-Taylor)
Miriama-Jane Devantier ... Miranda
rest of cast listed alphabetically:
Patara Berryman ... Pita
Stephen Butterworth ... Spaniard
Noa Campbell ... Kura Mum
Scott Cotter ... James
Amber Cureen ... Jessica
Alexander Hempstock ... Buff Guy
Margaret-Mary Hollins ... Denise
Li Ming Hu ... Alice (as Li-Ming Hu)
Inia Maxwell ... Tipene
Shannon McClure ... Sales Assistant
Charlie McDermott ... Ticket Attendant
Niwa Milroy ... Puti
Jacqueline Nairn ... Neighbour
Bridget Pyc ... Emily
Jarod Rawiri ... Wayne
Ethan Renata ... Young Seb
Geoffrey Snell ... Walter
Owairea Tawera ... Baby Miranda
Robert van Mackelenberg ... Jack
Jack Walley ... Coach
Tyra Wilson ... Schoolgirl
Gary Young ... Bags


Kawa and Chris