An ex-Boer war guerrilla in New Zealand is sent out to bring back a Maori accused of killing a British soldier. Gradually they grow to know and respect one another but a posse, led by the British Commanding officer is close behind and his sole intention is to see the Maori hang.
An old-fashioned adventure yarn that tramps reassuringly through familiar terrain. At least the destination – not to mention the casting – is more interesting than the journey.
It’s an interesting insight into an era rarely seen on film and an atmospheric showcase for Winstone and Morrison’s talents – not to mention New Zealand’s spectacular landscape.
The direction is tame and the plot well-trodden in this old-fashioned adventure yarn that's flung out with an endearing boy-scout optimism against the wide-open spaces of early 20th-century New Zealand.
Two dramatic killer twists are the bonus in a movie that puts an intriguing new spin on old colonial misadventures.
Making full use of the country's stunning landscape and with a neat twist in the tail, it's a great-looking, relentlessly tense and cleverly constructed thrillercum-character study.
General release. Check local listings for show times.