February 17, 2025

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A Visceral Portrayal — The Convert (Film Review)

The Convert

Image: © Vertigo

Guy Pearce stars in The Convert as Thomas Munro, a Christian missionary tasked with overseeing a British outpost in 19th-century New Zealand. En route to his destination, Munro witnesses a brutal skirmish led by tribal chief Akatarewa. He intervenes, saving Rangimai (Tioreore Ngatai-Melbourn) from an opposing tribe and taking her under his protection. However, the people of Epworth, the British settlement, are not welcoming—especially when it comes to Maori outsiders.

The Convert draws parallels to films like The Last Samurai (2003) and Dances with Wolves (1990), where a Western hero is immersed in a foreign society, often rising to become their saviour. Thankfully, The Convert isn't as on the nose as its predecessors. Munro is less of a saviour and more of a conduit through which the audience witnesses the tribal conflict between the two Maori factions. We see the world through his eyes as an observer, mediator, and ultimately an unwilling participant.

Munro's journey also highlights the hypocrisy of Western morality in the colonial context. While the settlers in Epworth view the Maori tribes as savages, their own actions are equally brutal and often more cowardly. This theme of mirrored violence—whether from the Maori or the British colonial forces—recurs throughout the film, making the audience question the real meaning of ‘civilisation.' It's in this liminal space that the actual conversion the movie refers to starts to gestate.

Beyond the socio-political commentary, The Convert excels as a visceral portrayal of Maori culture and warfare. The climactic battles are heart-pounding, especially the final confrontation. The mixing of Western weaponry and traditional Maori warriors evokes images from classic Westerns, which is fitting given the timeframe. Witnessing the famous haka, usually done by the New Zealand All Blacks rugby team, in its original, non-sporting context is nothing short of electrifying. There are clever callbacks during the final battle to the ghosts of Munro's past that play into the fight quite well and also act as a coda to an important part of Munro's life.

While the focus on the clash between Maori tribes is the film's strongest element, it's a shame the narrative doesn't dive deeper into this cultural aspect. A closer exploration beyond the bloodshed would have added layers to The Convert. What do the old traditions of Maori life look like, during this transitional period into colonialism? Nevertheless, as a war movie with some Western influences, The Convert remains a solid watch.

The Convert will be available on Digital Download from 14th October 2024.