Director Lee Tamahori, known for the acclaimed film ‘Once Were Warriors,’ has passed away at the age of 75. He died peacefully at home, surrounded by his family, after a battle with Parkinson’s disease.
Legacy of a Visionary Director
Tamahori’s passing was confirmed by his family, who described the profound impact he had on the filmmaking world. His long-time partner Justine, children Sam, Max, Meka, and Tané, as well as his daughter-in-laws Casey and Meri, were by his side. They remember him as a charismatic leader and a fierce advocate for Māori talent.
The family statement highlighted that Tamahori’s legacy continues through his whānau (family) and the filmmakers he inspired. They emphasized his contribution to breaking boundaries and telling significant stories with his unique vision.
Career Highlights
Born in Wellington in 1950, Tamahori began his career as a commercial artist and photographer. He ventured into the film industry as a boom operator in the late 1970s and quickly made a name for himself.
- Director of the seminal 1994 film ‘Once Were Warriors’
- Directed ‘Die Another Day’ (2002), a James Bond film
- Worked on ‘The Edge’ (1997) with Anthony Hopkins
- Directed ‘Next’ (2007) featuring Nicolas Cage
- Contributed to the critically acclaimed series ‘The Sopranos’
‘Once Were Warriors’ was based on Alan Duff’s book and became a cultural touchstone, sparking national conversations about domestic violence within urban Māori families. The film’s success not only made it New Zealand’s fourth highest-grossing film, grossing $6.8 million, but it also launched the careers of actors Temuera Morrison, Rena Owen, and Cliff Curtis.
Acknowledgment and Recognition
The film received numerous accolades, including Best Film at several international festivals such as:
- Durban International Film Festival
- Montreal World Film Festival
- New Zealand Film and Television Awards
- Rotterdam Film Festival
Time magazine recognized ‘Once Were Warriors’ as one of the year’s ten best films. In addition, Tamahori remained active in the industry, with his last feature film, ‘The Convert,’ released in March 2022.
Tributes and Final Farewell
In November, a tangihanga (funeral) was held at Te Mahurehure Marae in Pt Chevalier, Auckland, where family and friends paid their respects. Following the public gathering, Tamahori will have a private farewell in Te Tairawhiti.
Lee Tamahori will be remembered not only for his remarkable films but also for his unwavering support of New Zealand’s Māori community and storytelling. His contributions to cinema have left an indelible mark on the film industry.
