The Convert

        The British Empire has a long history of establishing settlements in new lands, often with the intent of helping local inhabitants find God. Many stories have been told showing both those who genuinely want to share love with a higher power, as well as those who aim to assimilate and make the natives more like them. In Lee Tamahori’s new film The Convert, we explore another perspective: a man of God who chooses to embrace a new culture without imposing his own beliefs.

Thomas Munro (Guy Pearce) has traveled a long way over rough seas to arrive at a British settlement in what would become modern-day New Zealand. He is there to serve as the town’s preacher, and it doesn’t take long for him to witness the environment he will be living in. Before arriving at the settlement, his ship stops to gather supplies for repairs, where he witnesses two warring Māori tribes in battle. Munro steps in to save the life of a girl. After doing so, he, the crew, and the girl, Rengimai (Tioreore Ngatai-Melbourne), return to the ship and continue their voyage. Munro is warmly welcomed at the new settlement, but Rengimai, not so much. They retreat to his cabin, where they begin to learn to live with one another. Fortunately, Munro meets Charlotte (Jacqueline McKenzie), who speaks Rengimai’s language, allowing for better communication between the two. Time passes and things go well, but there is always the threat of an attack by the tribe from which Munro saved Rengimai. Together, they must find a way to avoid conflict and possibly death.

Written by Michael Bennett, Shane Danielsen, and Lee Tamahori, The Convert is a beautifully staged and well-made film that takes care to accurately depict the Māori people. The story effectively helps us understand how contrasting cultures can relate and affect each other. In the 1830s, differing cultures rarely “worked things out,” leading instead to conflict, with the victors imposing their will, and surviving to tell their version of history. All of this unfolds in stunning locales, highlighting both beauty and danger, reminding us of the world we are watching.

The Convert is a beautiful and, at times, an action-filled historical epic that portrays the world as it was two hundred years ago. It is not solely about the violence of war but also offers lessons on decency and honor in times of conflict. Despite the grim inevitability of how things will end, thanks to Tamahori’s direction and excellent performances, the film stays the course. Pearce delivers his usual strong performance, but it is Ngatai-Melbourne who truly shines, commanding the screen every moment she is on it. One hopes that people will watch this film and learn from the mistakes of the past, as The Convert is a perfect story to teach us lessons we should already know.