Hei Tiki (1935): cast, story & where to watch
1935 · Film · ★ 8
Released in 1935, Hei Tiki is a documentary and drama film directed by Alexander Markey, running about 74 minutes.
What it’s about. Hei Tiki, also known as Primitive Passions and Hei Tiki: A Saga of the Maoris, is a 1935 American mock-documentary film made in New Zealand by the eccentric Alexander Markey and released (with sound added) in America. The film gained notoriety in America for having scenes of nudity cut in various states. It is one of four films (with The Devil's Pit, Down on the Farm, and On the Friendly Road) which claim to be the first "New Zealand talkie", although the claim is dubious in this case as the sound was added in America.
How it landed. With an audience score of 8.0/10, Hei Tiki sits among the best-reviewed titles in the catalogue.
Where to watch. Streaming options change often. See the full, country-by-country breakdown on our where to watch Hei Tiki page.
If you liked it. Fans of Hei Tiki tend to enjoy One Direction: This Is Us, Burn the Stage: The Movie, BTS World Tour: Love Yourself - Japan Edition and Senna.
Frequently asked
- Where can I watch Hei Tiki (1935)?
- Streaming, rental and purchase options for Hei Tiki change frequently. Check our where-to-watch page for the latest availability in your country.
- Is Hei Tiki worth watching?
- Hei Tiki holds an audience score of 8.0 out of 10, and is a strong pick if you enjoy documentary and drama. Most viewers rate it highly.
- When was Hei Tiki released?
- Hei Tiki was released in 1935, with a runtime of about 74 minutes.