Common Sense Media Review
By Renee Schonfeld
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Docu about Pacific Islander rugby teams has mild profanity.
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Pacific Warriors
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
PACIFIC WARRIORS tells the tale of the rough-and-tumble Pacific Island (Samoa, Tonga, Fiji) rugby players as they take on organized, well-paid professional teams from around the world. Personal interviews of both players and their opponents, footage of matches and practices, as well as enlightening scenes of family, team camaraderie, and spiritual devotion lead the way to the section that covers several explosive years of the Rugby World Cup finals. Among the topics explored are physical and cultural phenomena that are at the root of the Islanders' abilities and drive, plus differences in resources between the Islanders and their well-funded competition. Also spotlighted is the migration of some of the best players—the island treasures—to nearby New Zealand and Australia, as well as to Europe, all of which offer professional contracts, money, and great resources for training, medical assistance, and so on. It's clear from start to finish that these big, hard-hitting "warriors" are admired, respected, and loved by rugby fans throughout the international rugby community.
Is It Any Good?
Admirable true-life characters, unique cultures, and fierce competition keep this film lively and engaging. David-vs.-Goliath stories are always fun; it's in our DNA to root for the underdog, and Pacific Warriors provides plenty of opportunity for that—not to mention the enjoyment of discovering the enthusiasm, competitiveness, and fun in a sport relegated to minor status in the United States until recently (professional rugby came to the U.S. only in 2015). In spite of an untidy first-half structure that darts from interview to historical newsreels to match footage without a cohesive throughline, the spirited players come vividly to life. The second half, which focuses on specific, linear years of international rugby competition, boosts the ragtag team of men with few resources and no pay to world-class status. Best of all, the movie is a living testament to the old saying, "It isn't whether you win or lose but how you play the game"—although these underdogs certainly play to defy expectations.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about what makes the Pacific Islanders in Pacific Warriors such remarkable players. What about these young athletes is most impressive?
It's clear that the rugby teams portrayed have very little in the way of resources (money, equipment, special staff) when compared to the players from other countries. What keeps them competitive? What satisfies them if it's not material gain?
Before you saw this film, how much did you know about Samoa, Fiji, and Tonga? How did your feelings about or interest in those places change after watching it?
Before you saw this film, were you familiar with rugby? How did watching this documentary change the way you see the sport?
The players show perseverance and gratitude. Why are these important character strengths? Can you think of times you've shown them in your life?
Movie Details
- On DVD or streaming : September 14, 2015
- Cast : Brian Cox
- Director : James Marquand
- Studio : Content Media Group
- Genre : Documentary
- Character Strengths : Gratitude , Perseverance
- Run time : 93 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- Last updated : February 29, 2024
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