Joe Leahy's Neighbours

Aroview: Part Two of the 'Highlands Trilogy' by the makers of RATS IN THE RANKS, this gingerly investigates the tensions between a Papua New Guinea tribe and half-caste plantation owner Joe Leahy who has bought land from them to grow coffee.

Mostly leaving aside the politics of indigenous rights, progress and exploitation, this instead concentrates on the compelling human drama between Leahy, his employees and the various tribal factions. Ruling the roost with intelligence and respectful toughness, Leahy himself is fascinating as combining a white man’s business acumen with a deep-seated grasp of native values and protocol.

NZ International Film Festival 1989

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