Check out the year’s best New Zealand short films as chosen by guest selector Christine Jeffs, from a shortlist drawn up by NZIFF programmers from a total of 75 entries.
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New Zealand’s Best 2015
For our fourth New Zealand’s Best short film competition, NZIFF programmers Bill Gosden and Michael McDonnell viewed 75 submissions to make a shortlist of 12 from which filmmaker Christine Jeffs selected these six finalists. A jury of three will select the winners of the $5,000 Madman Entertainment Jury Prize and the $3,000 Wallace Friends of the Civic Award. A separate jury appointed by the New Zealand Cinematographers Society will present the Allen Guilford Cinematography Award of $2,000 and an engraved pan glass. The winner of the Audience Choice Award takes away 25 percent of the box office from the NZIFF screenings. Christine’s comments on each film appear in italics.
Tits on a Bull 2015
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The star player of a Māori women’s rugby team must choose between loyalty to her coach and love for her teammate. The narrative skilfully takes us to the heart of the relationships. Realistic and full of feeling. Refreshing.
Not Like Her 2015
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A rebellious teenager is forced to spend the day with her estranged mother when she is suspended from school. Edgy performances with perfect moments of solitude. Understated with intensity. Could have seen more.
Ow What! 2015
Te Mauri dreams of following in his absent rugby-playing father’s footsteps and finds encouragement from an unusual source. A charming story with surprising power. A memorable performance from Timoti Tiakiwai which places us firmly in his world. Funny and poignant all at once.
The Tide Keeper 2014
An old seaman dreams the ocean into his bed. Gloriously filmed, powerful and provocative, with strength of vision and clarity of tone that resonates beautifully with feeling.
Feeder 2015
A down-on-his-luck musician finds inspiration when he moves into a creepy derelict flat, but success comes at a cost... Dark narrative with a twist. Surprises keep coming to the end.
Madam Black 2014
An errant photographer must concoct an elaborate story when he runs over a beloved pet. The tricky situations we get ourselves into. Sweet and quirky tale which abounds with charm and humour.