"Once Were Warriors" is a 1994 New Zealand tragedy film based on the bestselling 1990 novel by Alan Duff. It tells the story of the Heke family, an urban Māori family living in South Auckland, struggling with poverty, alcoholism, domestic violence, and the impact of colonization on Māori culture. The film explores themes of cultural survival, intergenerational trauma, and the challenges faced by the Māori people in modern society. It was directed by Lee Tamahori and stars Temuera Morrison and Rena Owen. The phrase "once were warriors" reflects the proud and strong ancestry of the Māori people, contrasting with some characters' current hardships and disconnection from their heritage.