The Drum
Te Pahū
“Percussion's there in our lives, it's there in our heartbeat.”
Synopsis
With the resurgence of taonga pūoro, one musical instrument remains conspicuously absent from Māori music —pahū (drum). In this documentary Te Pahū, composer Hirini Melbourne (ONZM) and ethnologist Te Warena Taua trace the history of pahū, from musical accompaniment to being the manawa (heart) of communication and communities. Musicians and carvers bring to life the lost beat of pahū by creating a version using modern techniques. Pioneering Māori filmmaker Merata Mita (Patu!) directed Te Pahū, while Rawiri Paratene (Whale Rider) co-wrote and produced it.
Top Cast
Explore Star Directory →Key Information & Fast Facts
- Director
- Merata Mita
- Screenplay & Story
- Merata Mita, Rawiri Paratene
- Original Title
- Te Pahū
- Country of Origin
- New Zealand
- Spoken Languages
- English, Maori
- Runtime
- 46m
- Production Studios
- Rangipai Productions, Ora digital
Creative Leadership & Key Crew
Merata Mita
Merata Mita, Rawiri Paratene
Richard Rautjoki
Caterina De Nave, Rawiri Paratene
Department Leadership Roster
Merata Mita
Director
Merata Mita
Writer
Richard Rautjoki
Editor
Rawiri Paratene
Writer
Rawiri Paratene
Producer
Production Stills & Gallery
Official cinematic photography and background stills for The Drum.
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Frequently Asked Questions About The Drum
Quick factual answers about cast, synopsis, director, box office, and release information.
What is The Drum about?
With the resurgence of taonga pūoro, one musical instrument remains conspicuously absent from Māori music —pahū (drum). In this documentary Te Pahū, composer Hirini Melbourne (ONZM) and ethnologist Te Warena Taua trace the history of pahū, from musical accompaniment to being the manawa (heart) of communication and communities. Musicians and carvers bring to life the lost beat of pahū by creating a version using modern techniques. Pioneering Māori filmmaker Merata Mita (Patu!) directed Te Pahū, while Rawiri Paratene (Whale Rider) co-wrote and produced it.
Who directed The Drum?
The Drum was directed by Merata Mita.
Who stars in The Drum?
The principal cast of The Drum includes Hone Kaa, Hirini Melbourne, Kath Hemi.
When was The Drum released and how long is it?
The Drum was released in the theatrical window with a total runtime of 46m.