Once were Warriors

After studying the film ‘Once were Warriors’ I found many different themes that continue throughout the film. One main theme was identity. This was shown through many different characters as well as the title itself. The title once were warriors is implying the fact they used to be warriors but they aren't anymore. This shows loss of identity and culture. Another theme in the film I found interesting that was shown a lot is the theme of family violence. This theme is shown throughout the film, mainly through the character Jake.  Jake abusing his wife Beth relates to the theme of identity as Beth has no identity and lets Jake do this to her. Another factor to think about is the experiences  the writer Alan Duff has been through in his life influencing him to write once were warriors. Alan Duff himself was sent to Waikeria borstal, a detention center home for troubled teens. This is just like the character ‘Boogie’ who in the film ends up in a home just like Alan’s. This us just one example of the many experiences Alan put into once were warriors. Once were Warriors is a great film as it really makes the audience think about the fact there are people in this world who are dealing with all the things the characters of the film are. I believe this film put a lot of awareness out into society about family violence which is a good thing. I think it also helped the awareness of loss of culture, making the audience want to learn more about their culture and where they come from.