Niki Caro

Niki Caro (born c. 1967) is a New Zealand film director and screenwriter. She is known for directing films that often explore themes of female empowerment, cultural identity, and social justice, frequently featuring strong female protagonists.

Caro gained international recognition for her 2002 film Whale Rider, which received critical acclaim and numerous awards. Other notable films directed by Caro include North Country (2005), a drama inspired by the first major successful sexual harassment case in the United States; McFarland, USA (2015), a sports drama based on a true story; and The Zookeeper's Wife (2017), a historical drama set during World War II. In 2020, she directed Disney's live-action adaptation of Mulan.

Caro's work is characterized by her commitment to authentic storytelling and her ability to create compelling narratives that resonate with audiences globally. She has received several awards and nominations throughout her career, establishing herself as a significant figure in contemporary filmmaking.