Roughly between 1320 and 1350, a voyage of people settled in Aotearoa (also known as New Zealand). Called The Maori, they spent centuries in isolation, creating their own systems of beliefs and traditions. That is, until the 18th Century when the British began exploring and settling. As most European settlers of the time did in their explorations, they created tension with the Maori Tribes. Disputes over land sales began, and though The Maori had a fighting mentality, they eventually were forced to assimilate into the Western Culture in many aspects. After a short decline, all these years later The Maori people have expanded and continue to keep their traditions alive. A fascinating portion of history, it is drawn out in a vivid and truly gut-wrenching fashion in the new film The Covert.
Following a limited theatrical release in the USA, The Covert arrived digitally on October 14, 2024 through Vertigo Releasing. Directed by Lee Tamahori (Once Were Warriors 1994, Next 2007), and taken from a story by Michael Bennett based on the 2011 novel Wulf by Hamish Clayton, the film stars Guy Pearce (L.A. Confidential 1997, Memento 2000) as preacher Thomas Munro. On a journey to a British settlement in the 1830s New Zealand, the preacher’s faith goes to the test when his violent past comes back to haunt him as he finds himself caught in a bloody war between Maori Tribes.
Co-stars include the gorgeous Tioreore Ngatai-Melbourne (Hunt for the Wilderpeople 2016, E Rangi Ra 2022) as Rangimai, (Wahine Toa) the daughter of the Rangatira of one of the Warring Hapu, the lovely Jacqueline Mckenzie (Deep Blue Sea 1999, The 4400 series) as the love interest of Munro, the aspiring Antonio Te Maioha (Spartacus series, Zoolander 2 2016) as Maianui, and finally, Lawrence Makoare (The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring 2001, Die Another Day 2003) as rival Akatarewa.
Well-scripted, The Covert follows a very polished, powerful story, and while it seems heartbreaking at times, it is truly an intriguing film. A tale of grief, love, and brutal vengeance, everything is brought together by a cast that creates a genuine response from the audience. Portraying the characters so well, you fall for some, while loathe others. Pearce’s Munro shows true bravery in standing up for the Maori people, and at times, it connects on a particular level that coincides with some modern issues. Meanwhile, Ngatai-Melbourne, with her beautiful and yearning spirit, gives some hope for a better future and McKenzie’s somber, yet caring/kind soul inspires others that there is good in the world.
While some aspects of The Covert may not be entirely historically accurate, the film creates such a real feeling that you will be lost within it after just the first fifteen minutes. Captivating because of the story’s meaning, breathing scenery, phenomenal camera work, and great cast, Cryptic Rock gives The Covert 5 out of 5 stars.
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