Watch White Lies

White Lies is a powerful and beautifully crafted New Zealand film that delves deep into the relationship between two women from different worlds, brought together by circumstance but divided by their own secrets and fears. Directed by Dana Rotberg and adapted from a novel by Witi Ihimaera, the film is set in the early 20th century in rural New Zealand, against the backdrop of a growing conflict between European settlers and Maori communities who are fighting to defend their land and cultural heritage.

The central character of the film is Paraiti (Whirimako Black), a healer and midwife from a Maori tribe who is called upon by a wealthy Pakeha woman, Rebecca (Antonia Prebble), to perform an illegal abortion. The two women form an uneasy alliance, as Paraiti agrees to help Rebecca in exchange for a promise of a substantial financial reward.

But as the story unfolds, it becomes clear that both Paraiti and Rebecca are hiding secrets from each other - and themselves. Paraiti's past has left her scarred by guilt and shame, while Rebecca's powerful family has a dark history that she is desperate to conceal.

Complicating matters further is the unexpected arrival of Rebecca's cousin, Kate (Rachel House), a strident and outspoken feminist who questions Rebecca's decision to seek an abortion and begins to suspect that Paraiti is not who she claims to be.

As the tension between the three women mounts, the film explores themes of identity, power, and the legacy of colonialism in New Zealand. The performances of the three lead actors are outstanding, with Black bringing a quiet dignity to Paraiti, Prebble radiating an icy glamour as the troubled Rebecca, and House injecting a welcome burst of energy and humor as the no-nonsense Kate.

Visually, the film is a feast for the eyes, with stunning cinematography that captures the rugged beauty of the New Zealand landscape and highlights the contrast between the opulent world of Rebecca's wealthy family and the humble surroundings of Paraiti's village.

But despite its lush visuals and emotional heft, White Lies never succumbs to melodrama or sentimentality. Instead, it offers a nuanced and nuanced exploration of the complex relationships between women and the historical forces that have shaped their lives. It's a film that will linger in your thoughts long after the credits roll.

Overall, White Lies is a gripping and thought-provoking drama that deserves to be seen by a wide audience. It's a testament to the talent of everyone involved that a film so focused on the pain and struggle of its characters can also be so beautifully crafted and visually stunning. So, if you are a fan of powerful historical dramas with complex characters, then White Lies is definitely a must-watch film.

White Lies is a 2016 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 39 minutes.