The “What Becomes of the Broken Hearted?” trailer, more than a simple advertisement for the 1999 film, acts as a potent cultural artifact, reflecting New Zealand’s evolving national identity in the post-colonial era while simultaneously showcasing the enduring struggles of Māori communities with intergenerational trauma, unemployment, and violence. Its legacy lies not only in attracting audiences to the film, but also in contributing to a broader national conversation about race relations and the complexities of modern Māori life. This article delves into the trailer’s impact, its enduring relevance, and the answers to frequently asked questions surrounding its creation and influence.
The Lasting Resonance of a Powerful Trailer
The trailer for “What Becomes of the Broken Hearted?” (WBOTBH) isn’t just a collection of dramatic scenes and musical cues. It’s a microcosm of the film’s narrative power, encapsulating the themes of brotherhood, loss, and redemption against the backdrop of a marginalized community struggling to rebuild itself. The trailer effectively leverages raw emotion and visual storytelling to create a sense of urgency and empathy, drawing viewers into the complex world of Jake the Muss and his whānau (family). It successfully captures the film’s blend of brutal realism and underlying hope, a combination that resonated deeply with audiences both in New Zealand and internationally. The visual language, punctuated by moments of intense violence contrasted with quiet introspection, left a lasting impression, solidifying the film’s place in New Zealand cinematic history.
Unpacking the Trailer’s Key Elements
Music and Sound Design
The soundtrack plays a pivotal role in establishing the trailer’s emotional landscape. The use of diegetic sound, like the roar of a motorcycle engine or the chant of a haka, grounds the narrative in its specific cultural context. In addition, the careful selection of music, likely a blend of Māori-influenced melodies and hard-hitting rock, amplifies the tension and drama, creating a powerful emotional connection with the viewer.
Visual Storytelling
The trailer relies heavily on visual cues to convey the story’s central themes. Close-up shots of characters’ faces, etched with pain and resilience, communicate a wealth of emotion without relying on dialogue. The use of natural lighting and stark camera angles further enhances the sense of realism and immediacy. The juxtaposition of scenes depicting violence with those of cultural pride (e.g., haka performances) adds layers of complexity to the narrative.
Dialogue and Narration
While visual storytelling dominates, the dialogue snippets included in the trailer serve as powerful soundbites, highlighting key themes of brotherhood, betrayal, and the search for meaning in a broken world. Any narration, if present, likely adopts a somber and introspective tone, guiding the viewer through the emotional core of the film.
The Cultural Impact and Legacy
The trailer for “What Becomes of the Broken Hearted?” acted as a cultural mirror, reflecting both the strengths and weaknesses of New Zealand society. It sparked conversations about Māori identity, social injustice, and the legacy of colonialism. The film, and by extension its trailer, helped to challenge stereotypes and promote a more nuanced understanding of Māori culture. Its influence can be seen in subsequent New Zealand films that tackle similar themes with greater depth and sensitivity.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Was the WBOTBH trailer different in different regions?
Variations in the trailer’s content, length, or musical score across different regions were minimal, primarily focusing on language localization for international markets. The core message and the key scenes remained consistent to maintain the film’s intended impact. There may have been slight differences in music rights clearances, leading to minor audio alterations in specific territories.
2. How did the trailer contribute to the film’s commercial success?
The trailer played a significant role in generating pre-release buzz and attracting audiences to theaters. Its powerful visual storytelling and emotional resonance created a strong desire to see the full film, driving ticket sales and contributing to its overall commercial success. Furthermore, its authentic portrayal of a specific cultural experience made it stand out in a market often dominated by Hollywood productions.
3. Who directed the WBOTBH trailer?
While the director of the film was Ian Mune, the trailer itself was typically created by a specialized team within the film’s marketing and distribution company (likely UIP). Specific credits are rarely publicly available for trailers, making it difficult to pinpoint the individual director.
4. What specific filmmaking techniques were used to enhance the trailer’s impact?
Techniques such as fast-paced editing, dramatic music cues, and the use of slow-motion were employed to heighten the emotional impact. Jump cuts and strategic fades were also used to create a sense of urgency and suspense. The careful selection of close-up shots and dramatic angles played a vital role in drawing the viewer into the characters’ emotional lives.
5. Did the trailer accurately represent the themes and content of the full film?
Yes, the trailer offered a faithful, albeit condensed, representation of the film’s core themes, including violence, cultural identity, and the search for redemption. While it necessarily focused on the most dramatic elements, it avoided misleading viewers about the film’s overall tone and message.
6. How did Māori audiences respond to the trailer and the film?
Responses from Māori audiences were varied, ranging from praise for its authentic portrayal of their culture to criticism for its focus on negative stereotypes. However, many appreciated the film’s willingness to address important social issues and its contribution to a wider national conversation. The film provided a platform for diverse voices within the Māori community to be heard.
7. Where can I watch the WBOTBH trailer online?
A search on platforms like YouTube or Vimeo using keywords such as “What Becomes of the Broken Hearted Trailer” is likely to yield results. Film archive websites and fan pages may also host the trailer. Availability may vary depending on copyright restrictions and region.
8. What other films are similar to WBOTBH in terms of themes and style?
Films that explore similar themes of cultural identity, social injustice, and violence within marginalized communities include “Once Were Warriors” (the prequel to WBOTBH), “Boy,” and “The Dark Horse.” These films often employ similar filmmaking techniques and aim to provoke dialogue about important social issues.
9. What is the significance of the film’s title in relation to the trailer’s message?
The title, derived from the popular soul song, adds a layer of irony and poignancy to the trailer’s message. It suggests that even amidst violence and despair, there is a longing for love and connection. This juxtaposition of hope and heartbreak is a central theme of both the trailer and the film.
10. How has the WBOTBH trailer influenced subsequent film trailers in New Zealand?
The trailer helped to establish a benchmark for New Zealand film trailers, demonstrating the power of authentic storytelling and emotional resonance. It paved the way for more nuanced and culturally sensitive trailers that reflect the diverse experiences of New Zealanders. Many subsequent trailers have adopted similar filmmaking techniques, such as fast-paced editing and dramatic music cues.
11. What role did the trailer play in promoting New Zealand cinema internationally?
The trailer helped to showcase the unique talent and storytelling capabilities of New Zealand filmmakers, attracting international attention to the country’s burgeoning film industry. Its success contributed to the growing recognition of New Zealand as a source of high-quality and culturally relevant cinema.
12. What resources are available to learn more about the film and its cultural impact?
Academic articles, film reviews, and interviews with the cast and crew provide valuable insights into the film’s themes, production, and cultural impact. Websites dedicated to New Zealand cinema and Māori culture offer further information and resources. University libraries and film archives are also excellent sources of information.