Pai is a young Maori girl living under the roof of her grandfather, a tribal chief who is desperately, and blindly, in search of his male successor. Pai believes her destiny lies within the ancient beliefs of her ancestors, but her grandfather cannot accept her as a legitimate heir, trapped as he is by the determination that only a male can succeed. The Whale Rider is a tender and perceptive drama, the acting is flawless and the atmosphere perfect. A real gem with a well-deserved Academy Award nomination for 12-year-old Keisha Castle-Hughes.