The film Savage was inspired by true stories from New Zealand street gangs. The main character, Danny, is brought up in poverty. His father is violent. After Danny is caught stealing, he is sent to a brutal home for boys. His experiences there make him feel he can never go home.
The film is set in Wellington, which is the capital of New Zealand. The Maori name of Wellington is Poneke. Wellington has around 213 000 inhabitants.
New Zealand has had youth and street gangs since the 1950s. The police distinguish between New Zealand gangs with predominantly Maori and Pacific Islander membership, outlaw motorcycle gangs, and local street gangs.
Before you watch the film:
Discuss the following questions:
Does it surprise you that there are violent street gangs in New Zealand? Why / why not?
Should children who break the law be punished? Why / why not?
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CC BY-SAWritten by: Tone Hesjedal.
Last revised date 03/12/2022