In the Fire of War Review: History Comes Alive

In the Fire of War (Ka Whawhai Tonu) captures the struggle for Maori identity by forming an intimate link to the event it adapts.

In the Fire of War (Ka Whawhai Tonu in Maori) is the latest dramatization of the event, capturing the brutal last stand through the eyes of a child, and offering a glimpse into what the battle continues to mean for the surviving culture even today. 

The film is about a teenager of mixed race named Haki (Paku Fernandez) who starts off in the British camp and is captured by the forces of Chief Rewi Maniapoto (Temeura Morrison, The Mandalorian). It is there he learns the ways of the Maori and finds guidance from the local priest Wi Toka (Cliff Curtis, Last Breath), effectively taking their side. His relationship with the psychic medium Kopu (Hinerangi Harawira-Nic) also changes his perspective, convincing him to side with the Maori and fight for their rights. 

In the Fire of War is almost nonstop action. The special tactics of the Maori are to hide and reshape the earth to hide, leading to the labyrinthine trench called a pa in the ground. The guerrilla tactics of the Maori stand in contrast to the heavily regimented British units, making for some dynamic action moments. Maori never surrender, which only builds the suspense in seeing just how long they can hold out. Seeing these scenes can make the history as only described in books feel real and more spectacular. While the first twenty minutes do not seem to progress the plot and may be a bit dull at times, the action does hold interest once it starts.

The main message of In the Fire of War is the reclamation of Maori identity. Many of the people who star in and worked on the film are direct descendants of those who fought the battle. The British may have won their war with the Maori, but the people live on, and are taking back control of New Zealand. In the twenty-first century, Maori populations have recovered to about a million strong, and their language which once faced extinction has seen a major revival. A film like this can raise awareness and provide a cultural touchstone for one of the most unique and enduring people groups on Earth. 

Paku Fernandez is sure to be the breakout star of the movie. His compassion and sympathy for the Maori comes through in his performance, and his sorrow is felt throughout. When he and Chief Rewi discuss how to face the British, he commands a presence, and is able to shine as a young, competent leader. Temeura Morrison and Cliff Curtis are veterans and their performances are great as well, but it is the young star who carries the film. 

In the Fire of War (Ka Whawhai Tonu) is a respectful and thorough portrayal of this important event. It is a film made by Maori for Maori, and it shows the importance of their enduring culture. Those who like history and are curious about Maori culture can gain exposure by watching this well acted and directed document of one of the most important events in their history. It may be brutal, but it is a story worth telling and something this people group can be proud of for showcasing.

In the Fire of War (Ka Whawhai Tonu) was screened at imagineNATIVE on June 6, 2025.