The Dead Lands is a 2014 New Zealand action-adventure film directed by Toa Fraser. It is set in pre-colonial Māori culture and is notable for its use of the Māori language. The film’s plot revolves around a young Māori warrior named Hongi, who sets out on a journey of vengeance to honor the death of his father and save his tribe after they are slaughtered by a rival group.

In his quest for vengeance, Hongi must pass through the feared “Dead Lands,” a forbidden area believed to be inhabited by ghosts and dangerous spirits. There, he encounters a mysterious and fearsome warrior who becomes his ally in confronting the murderous war party responsible for his tribe’s demise. The film focuses on themes of honor, revenge, and redemption, showcasing traditional Māori customs and fighting styles, including the art of mau rākau (Māori weaponry).

The Dead Lands was praised for its authenticity in depicting Māori culture and language, as well as for its intense action sequences and beautiful cinematography of New Zealand’s rugged landscapes. The film gained international attention, becoming a landmark project for indigenous cinema.

In addition to the film, The Dead Lands was later adapted into a TV series, also set in the Māori world, blending supernatural elements with action and adventure, and continuing to explore Māori legends and traditions. The series dives deeper into the spiritual aspects of Māori mythology, expanding on the world introduced in the original film.