Rewi's Last Stand
If men can die, the women and children can die also.
Star-crossed lovers, Robert and Ariana, are caught up in the New Zealand wars of the 1860s. Ariana is claimed by the Maniapoto people as one of their own and, despite Robert's chivalrous defence, is taken by them and must help them prepare for war. Robert likewise must do his patriotic duty and enlists to fight on the other side. He volunteers to ride despatch, thinking it may give him an opportunity to see Ariana again, which it does, but their joy is short-lived; Maniapoto women fight beside their men, and furthermore she is a Rangitira (noble) and will not let her people down. The climax is the siege of Oraku Pa where 300 Maori hold off 2000 troops for three days. The Maniapoto are defeated, but Ariana, although wounded, survives to be reunited with Robert.
Directed by Rudall Hayward · Written by Rudall Hayward
Cast
- Leo Pilcher Robert Beaumont
- Ramai Te Miha Ariana
- Henare Toka Tama Te Heu Heu
- Stanley Knight Corporal Ben Horton
- John Gordon Brigadier Generl Carey
- A.J.C. Fisher Sir George Grey
- Peter Hutt A.D.C. to Grey
- Colonel J.D. Swan General Cameron
- Bernard Britain Captain Jackson
- Raureti Te Huia Rewi Maniapoto
- Mr. C.S. Wood Rev. John Morgan
- Phoebe Clarke Mrs. Morgan
Make it a double feature
3h 12m together
Rewi's Last Stand
The Four Feathers
A close match in mood and era.
