Watch This Way of Life

This Way of Life is a heartwarming and inspiring documentary from 2009 that follows the life of a Maori family living in the remote mountains of New Zealand. The movie focuses on the Karena family, headed by Peter Karena and his wife Colleen, who have chosen to live a simple and unconventional life, free from many of the trappings of modern society.

The film begins by introducing the viewer to the Karena family - Peter, Colleen, and their six children, who range in age from toddler to teenager. The family lives in a series of makeshift houses and cabins in the shadow of the mountains, surrounded by nature and free to live their lives as they see fit.

One of the central conflicts of the film arises when the family's way of life is threatened by outside forces. In particular, the local government begins to take an interest in the Karensa's land, and the family is faced with the possibility of eviction. This conflict forms the backbone of the film's narrative, as the family works to defend their way of life and keep their land.

Throughout the movie, we get a glimpse into the unique and fascinating life of the Karena family. The children are homeschooled by Colleen and Peter, and their education focuses on practical skills like gardening, animal husbandry, and building. The family raises horses, goats, and other animals, and they hunt and fish to supplement their food supply. The film follows the family throughout their daily routines, from milking cows to chopping wood to playing with the family's many dogs.

Despite the simplicity of their lifestyle, the Karena family faces many challenges and hardships throughout the movie. One of the most significant of these is the family's struggle to come to terms with their eldest son, Llewelyn. Llewelyn, who is in his late teens, is a passionate and free-spirited young man who clashes with his more traditional parents. He is often in trouble with the law and struggles to find his place in the family's way of life.

Throughout the film, we see Peter and Colleen struggling to come to terms with their son's behavior, and the strain that it places on their family. At times, it seems as though Llewelyn's behavior might threaten to tear the family apart. However, the Karensa's unwavering love for their son ultimately proves to be a powerful force, and the family manages to stay together.

Overall, This Way of Life is a beautiful and thought-provoking documentary that offers a window into a way of life that is rapidly disappearing in our modern world. Through the eyes of the Karena family, we see the beauty and the challenges of living a simpler and more connected life, and we are left with a profound sense of respect and admiration for this remarkable family.