Columbia TriStar Home Entertainment has just unveiled information about the upcoming DVD release of Whale Rider, this summer’s independent break-out hit from New Zealand.

“Whale Rider” is the radiant story of an exceptional young girl’s coming of age, and of a proud Maori (indigenous people of New Zealand) community’s struggle to embrace new ways of thinking. A compelling and emotionally-resonant family drama, “Whale Rider” became the crowd-pleasing surprise hit of the summer with audiences across the country, grossing more than $14 million during its limited national theatrical run.

The Special Edition DVD slated for release on October 28 will contain an anamorphic widescreen transfer of the movie as well as a number of family-friendly bonus features such as eight deleted scenes, a commentary track by the director, two in-depth featurettes and Photo Galleries.