Question 1 – Analyse a key idea in the short film. How is the idea developed? What links with yourself or the world can you identify?
A key idea present in “Turangawaewae” is loss. This first shown through several flashbacks and is developed through the use of symbols. We see Tiare with several religious (Christian) items such as a crucifix, a piece of turf and the Virgin Mary. This represents his lost connection to his faith or marae. It could also represent his spirit which he has also lost. The word “turangawaewae” translates to ‘a place to stand’ and this phrase becomes poignant when we see him deliver a speech about a patch of grass in a dull, dreary hospital or homeless shelter. Once he arrives at the marae and removes his shoes we relate this back to his previous speech, he has found his ‘place to stand’. The faded effect from the flashbacks adds to the idea that Tiare's memories of the past are strong and vivid.
Many people would be able to relate to being out of touch with their faith, if they went to a religious school and regularly went to church but modern busy lifestyles interfere and many people are less religious nowadays. Tiare steps onto the marae and becomes connected with his culture once again, he seems less isolated as his daughter is now more aware of his problems and is supportive. Tiare then gives off a sense of nostalgia and he is more comfortable in this environment that he is familiar with.
Many people would be able to relate to being out of touch with their faith, if they went to a religious school and regularly went to church but modern busy lifestyles interfere and many people are less religious nowadays. Tiare steps onto the marae and becomes connected with his culture once again, he seems less isolated as his daughter is now more aware of his problems and is supportive. Tiare then gives off a sense of nostalgia and he is more comfortable in this environment that he is familiar with.