Bringing History to Life in “Ka Whawhai Tonu”
JULY 27 2024
Ka Whawhai Tonu. Set in 1864, this epic tale delves into one of the most significant battles in New Zealand’s history – a gripping conflict between Māori warriors and colonial soldiers. It is filled with intensity, drama, and powerful storytelling that makes a movie unforgettable. And guess what? Our team at Cause and FX had the absolute pleasure of working on this one!
Ka Whawhai Tonu takes us straight to the heart of the action, where the pā is under siege, and the sheer scale of the British forces becomes shockingly clear. The Cause and FX team were brought on board to help capture that pivotal moment as 3,000 soldiers advance from the bush line – an impossible feat to film practically. That’s where the magic of visual effects comes in.
Crafting a Digital Army for the Ages
Recreating the enormity of the British forces required a bit more than a few costumed extras. We digitally brought to life an approaching 3D colonial army, complete with historically accurate uniforms, rifles, and those iconic Armstrong cannons. Using a mix of cutting-edge tech and a heap of careful planning, we layered in musket and cannon fire smoke, positioned fallen soldiers, and blended our CG troops seamlessly into the landscape.
From test drone shots taken during the recce, to the detailed Lidar scans, we made sure every detail was spot on, right down to the grass our soldiers marched across. It’s that kind of dedication that lets us create shots that not only look amazing but feel authentic.
Watch the Trailer
This project was all about telling a powerful story in the most realistic way possible. So, if you’re keen to see history brought to life like never before, check out the trailer for Ka Whawhai Tonu on YouTube. It’s one battle you won’t want to miss!
