The Handsome Savage is the compelling story of Philip Taueki, a Māori landowner in rural New Zealand, whose impassioned efforts to defend his tribe’s legacy and restore
The sacred Punahau Lake, in the hands of indigenous people, makes him a target for controversy. The documentary captures Philip’s fervent struggle against systemic racism and vested interests.
interests, echoing an international call for environmental conservation and indigenous rights. Philip’s unwavering determination and unconventional method, marked by
Confrontations and legal battles illuminate the clash between traditional wisdom and bureaucratic barriers. Through evocative storytelling and poignant testimonials, The Handsome Savage unravels Philip’s transformation from a level-headed diplomat to a divisive yet resilient symbol of Māori resistance. Against the backdrop of picturesque landscapes, the documentary delves deep into the complexities of identity, heritage, and the enduring fight for justice in a rapidly changing world.
Production Team: Hiona Henare (director and producer)
State of the film: in production
Format:
The Handsome Savage tells the exciting story of Philip Taueki, a Māori landowner from the New Zealand countryside whose passionate efforts to defend his tribe’s heritage and restore the sacred Lake Punahau to the indigenous people make him a target of controversy. The documentary shows Philip’s fierce struggle against systemic racism and vested interests, echoing an international call for the conservation of the environment and the rights of indigenous peoples. Philip’s unwavering determination and unconventional method, marked by confrontations and legal battles, highlight the conflict between traditional wisdom and bureaucratic barriers. Through evocative narratives and poignant testimonies, The Handsome Savage traces Philip’s transformation from a cautious diplomat to a symbol of Māori resistance, who divides but resists. Set against spectacular landscapes, the documentary delves deeply into the complexities of identity, heritage, and the struggle for justice in a world in constant change.
The Handsome Savage is the compelling story of Philip Taueki, a Māori landowner in rural New Zealand, whose impassioned efforts to defend his tribe’s legacy and restore
The sacred Punahau Lake, in the hands of indigenous people, makes him a target for controversy. The documentary captures Philip’s fervent struggle against systemic racism and vested interests.
interests, echoing an international call for environmental conservation and indigenous rights. Philip’s unwavering determination and unconventional method, marked by
Confrontations and legal battles illuminate the clash between traditional wisdom and bureaucratic barriers. Through evocative storytelling and poignant testimonials, The Handsome Savage unravels Philip’s transformation from a level-headed diplomat to a divisive yet resilient symbol of Māori resistance. Against the backdrop of picturesque landscapes, the documentary delves deep into the complexities of identity, heritage, and the enduring fight for justice in a rapidly changing world.
French 
English