Nellie, Daisy and Lou attend an institution for delinquent girls on an isolated island in 1954. The trio rail against the system, finding strength in their friendship but this is challenged when the school's matron divides them.
We Were Dangerous, directed by Josephine Stewart-Te Whiu and written by Maddie Dai and Stewart-Te Whiu, is a delightful and thought-provoking film that masterfully blends themes of perseverance, resilience, and teenage rebellion. Starring Erana James, Rima Te Wiata, and Manaia Hall, the movie presents a lighter tone despite exploring potentially dark subject matter, making it an engaging and enjoyable watch.
At its heart, We Were Dangerous is about girls being girls, pushing back against oppression, and refusing to give up. The film adeptly captures the essence of teenage defiance and the fight against societal expectations. It explores the dynamics of oppression, particularly in the context of Pākehā versus Māori relations. This backdrop adds depth to the narrative, reflecting New Zealand's healthy social system that encourages discussion and openness about its history. Though fictional, the film's portrayal of the period's attitudes towards women and Māori feels authentic and grounded, providing a poignant commentary on historical and contemporary issues.
One of the most striking aspects of the film is its focus on the relationships between the girls and their solidarity. Rather than delving into the darker aspects of their struggles, We Were Dangerous highlights the camaraderie and determination of its characters to live life on their own terms. This choice results in a film that is brisk and to the point, with a runtime just shy of 90 minutes, benefiting from excellent pacing. The story unfolds smoothly, keeping the audience engaged without dragging or losing its momentum.
The acting in We Were Dangerous is commendable, with each actress bringing a youthful innocence and sly inventiveness to their roles. Erana James, Rima Te Wiata, and Manaia Hall deliver powerful performances, capturing the harshness and underlying anger of their characters. Their portrayal of dissatisfaction with societal expectations is both poignant and relatable. Despite the potential for a much darker story, the film maintains a lighter tone, making it more enjoyable and accessible.
The New Zealand environment serves as a beautiful backdrop, integrated into the narrative without turning the film into a tourism advertisement. The natural beauty of New Zealand is showcased in a way that enhances the story rather than distracting from it. This minimalistic approach ensures that every element on screen is significant, though it does make parts of the film predictable. The screenplay is generally strong, with well-written dialogue and a cohesive plot. However, it relies on exposition towards the end to explain hidden mechanics that could have been better foreshadowed, creating a slight disconnect in the narrative flow.
We Were Dangerous stands out for its heart and emotional depth. The story is an act of quiet rebellion, emphasizing the girls' joy in small moments and their strong sense of community. The film's humour arises from the disconnect between what is preached and what is practised, providing a lighter perspective on serious and important subjects. The quirky moments and shared camaraderie among the girls add charm to this period drama, making it a delightful watch.
One of the film's strengths is its ability to challenge viewers' perceptions. It asks us to see Māori adolescent girls not as perpetrators of crime or victims of violence, but as individuals capable of joy, love, and bonding. This fresh perspective is a testament to the film's thoughtful storytelling and its commitment to presenting a more nuanced portrayal of its characters. The film's open-endedness invites viewers to ponder the characters' futures and the societal issues raised, adding depth to the narrative.
Despite leaving some questions unanswered, We Were Dangerous never intended to provide all the answers. This ambiguity is intentional, encouraging viewers to reflect on the story and its themes. By not delving too deeply into the characters' situations, the film maintains a sense of youthful exuberance and optimism. This approach allows the film to remain light-hearted while still addressing important issues, striking a delicate balance between humour and seriousness.
We Were Dangerous is a strong piece of storytelling that combines humour and heart to tackle serious themes with a light-hearted touch. It celebrates the resilience and solidarity of young women, making it a must-watch for those who appreciate New Zealand cinema and stories of quiet rebellion. The film's focus on the joy and strength of its characters, despite the challenges they face, is both inspiring and uplifting. With its strong performances, beautiful setting, and thoughtful narrative, We Were Dangerous is a testament to the power of storytelling and the enduring spirit of youth.
We Were Dangerous is one of 105 films screening as part of the Whānau Mārama New Zealand International Film Festival (NZIFF)
The full programme of 2024 films is outlined here.
We Were Dangerous will be released nationwide in NZ cinemas from August 22, 2024