Taking the Waewae Express

This low-budget, low-key debut film from Kiwi directors Andrea Bosshard and Shane Loader tackles tough emotional issues, especially when most of its core characters are generally inarticulate youth struggling to express their feelings.

Following a death in a car accident caused by reckless driving, a Wellington widower and teacher (Rangimoana Taylor), his surviving son (Matariki Whatarau) who's yet to tell his father he's quit university, a cousin, a friend of their whanau, his girlfriend and her brother have to cope with grief, anger or guilt.

For the driver of the car (Evan Hussey), it's also a matter of finding the courage to seek forgiveness, while for the victim's family and friends, it's finding the ability to forgive.

The story not only has both Maori and Pakeha at its centre, but manages to also include a Swedish tourist and Malaysian taxi driver.

Performances are understated, which at times gives the story an authenticity, but at other times they are a bit self-conscious and unconvincing.

Overall, however, this film - whose title refers to walking (waewae) or, colloquially, taking Shanks's pony - compensates for its awkward moments in acting and script with an honesty and tenderness that is both affecting and compassionate.

- © Fairfax NZ News