This Way of Life
This Way of Life
| 11 March 2010 (USA)
This Way of Life Trailers

Peter Karena, his wife Colleen, their six children and many horses live almost wild in the stunning beauty of New Zealand's rugged Ruahine Mountains. Until, that is, Peter's escalating battle with his own father has profound consequences for the whole clan.

Reviews
Taraparain Tells a fascinating and unsettling true story, and does so well, without pretending to have all the answers.
Voxitype Good films always raise compelling questions, whether the format is fiction or documentary fact.
Keeley Coleman The thing I enjoyed most about the film is the fact that it doesn't shy away from being a super-sized-cliche;
Geraldine The story, direction, characters, and writing/dialogue is akin to taking a tranquilizer shot to the neck, but everything else was so well done.
contoocook This Way of Life is an unlikely fairy tale, replete with bucolic settings, physical prowess in the face of nature's power and a battle against a domineering stepfather. A cynic could say that it rehashes the oft-sketched theme of back-to-the-earth survivalism, or that it offers the consequences of poor planning. Upon quiet reflection, however, it becomes clear that the film evokes the better angels of our nature. It gives us a family dedicated to shedding the impulses of materialism. It reminds one of what is solid in this world: commitment to a partner, integrity in daily decisions, and creating a landscape of emotional beauty within which children can grow. The Burstyns have created an especially prescient documentary for individuals across the globe to have the good fortune of viewing.
film1975 One of the best documentaries ever made. You cannot help but fall in love with this family, and not for one second do you ever feel "sorry" for them... even in their hardest times. in fact, you find yourself envying their "way of life" and wanting to somehow be a part of it. Everyone can learn from this film - it's truly humbling. Some of the scenes are so gorgeously candid and heartfelt, you feel like you're in New Zealand with them. Peter is a role model for all men across the world. I am so incredibly happy I stumbled across this doc @ an IDA screening in Hollywood. I was one of 3 people in the theater and it's a shame. Spread the word! "This Way of Life" is 2011 Oscar MATERIAL!!!!! I would be sorely disappointed if it does not get a nomination at the very least.
Rozana Helmbright Thoroughly enjoyed the rawness of this film. Brilliant scenery, brilliant characters, brilliant direction and the most brilliant example of honorable parents in todays less than brilliant world. What more can we hope for than to have our children; the future of this world, be reared with such integrity, fierce strength of willpower, humility and kind love. If we all could instill in our children, but a portion of likewise admirable qualities then the future generations will no doubt be equipped to survive, thrive and conquer whatever the future of this globe has to throw at them. Reverting back to the way of our forefathers is indeed improbable to most, yet done so graciously and humbly by the Karena family. Emotionally moving. A true installation of hope and courage. Blessed be those who strive for that which is right and true. The reward may be long awaited, but will be GREAT - as is this must see film doc. The world is a better place for the creation of 'This Way of Life.' One can't help but leave the film hoping that one day Peter's father will watch this film and realise the error of his ways...
bradlaw2464 This Doco changed my life without doubt. To see how families should truly live in our world and how much peace is pushed towards our kids is just inspiring! The way its placed together to make you laugh, cry and become angry is perfect and to end it with such a perfect beginning for the whole family! The two main things though that stand out for me in this Doco that helps back my 10/10 rating is firstly the quote! My favorite quotes are from people like Bob Marley, Bob Dylan, Winstin Churchill but now another one has crept in, "What i do for a living? I live for a living!" said by the Father in this Doco. The second is an example of the real reason i moved to this stunning country, the families and the Maori culture that in some ways keeps the real meaning of Autoroa together! This way of life, a perfect afternoon Doco!