Based on the classic story ‘The Christmas Match: Football in No-Man’s Land 1914’ by Pehr Thermaenius, The Haka is directed by Isaac Lee, and written by Lee and WIFT NZ member April Phillips.
The 15-minute film set in the trenches depicts Māori soldiers in World War I in 1914 who have received Christmas gifts from home. When the two sides agree upon a ceasefire, the Germans want to play a game of football. The Māori, who don’t play football, want to play rugby. To keep the peace, their officer orders his men to play football. To save face and keep their honour, the Māori soldiers agree on the condition that they are allowed to perform a Haka before the game, and the commanding officer reluctantly agrees.
The Haka was released online on Anzac Day, 25 April 2021. Click here to watch.