New Zealand (Aotearoa) does fairly well for a country of around 4 million in terms of movies. Making them, shooting them here and producing top rate actors, actresses and directors, we have a fairly good piece of the Hollywood pie. It was therefore extremely difficult to compile a list of 5 top films that were made or produced here in New Zealand without cutting out a lot of awesome films that often fly under the radar of the mainstream. Although this was the case, i have managed to whittle the films i have seen down to 5 of my favourite movies made right here in little old Aotearoa. Enjoy!
#5 - The Last Samurai (2003)
Much of 'The Last Samurai' was shot right here in New Zealand with a few other scenes shot back in California. And although not based on anything Kiwi, directed by a Kiwi or included any notable performances by a Kiwi it still showcased to the world how beautiful a country New Zealand is and how untouched and raw much of the land is here in Aotearoa. The film was fairly decent too, although it did have Mr. Scientology Cruise as its lead actor.
#5 - The Last Samurai (2003)
Much of 'The Last Samurai' was shot right here in New Zealand with a few other scenes shot back in California. And although not based on anything Kiwi, directed by a Kiwi or included any notable performances by a Kiwi it still showcased to the world how beautiful a country New Zealand is and how untouched and raw much of the land is here in Aotearoa. The film was fairly decent too, although it did have Mr. Scientology Cruise as its lead actor.
Watch the trailer for 'The Last Samurai' Here
#4 - Whale Rider (2002)
An awesome film made and produced in New Zealand that has received world-wide acclaim for its moving and amazing story, not to mention the awesome acting produced by (the then young) Keisha Castle-Hughes. The story revolves around Paikea and her struggle to fulfil her mythical destiny while at the same time her Grandfather refuses to accept that this challenge and destiny should not befall upon his Granddaughter. Its a great movie if you get the chance to see it, and again shows off the beautiful East Coast of New Zealand and the amazing untouched beaches and coastlines that surround Aotearoa.
#4 - Whale Rider (2002)
An awesome film made and produced in New Zealand that has received world-wide acclaim for its moving and amazing story, not to mention the awesome acting produced by (the then young) Keisha Castle-Hughes. The story revolves around Paikea and her struggle to fulfil her mythical destiny while at the same time her Grandfather refuses to accept that this challenge and destiny should not befall upon his Granddaughter. Its a great movie if you get the chance to see it, and again shows off the beautiful East Coast of New Zealand and the amazing untouched beaches and coastlines that surround Aotearoa.
Watch the trailer for 'Whale Rider' Here
#3 - Bad Taste (1987)
I first watched this film in High School during science class when i was about 14, awesome movie and the first film that Peter Jackson directed. Its a Comedy/Sci-Fi/Action Splatter film so is bound to get plenty of strange reactions from people, its just so over the top that it becomes hilarious! Everything is overdone including the cheesy acting and special effects but it all combines to make something, in my opinion, magical. Its basically based around aliens invading a small made up New Zealand town to harvest humans to turn them into fast-food for their home planet! Go hire this if you get the chance, and although it may be hard to track down if you do manage to find it you wont be disappointed! Oh and the entire film was improvised!
#3 - Bad Taste (1987)
I first watched this film in High School during science class when i was about 14, awesome movie and the first film that Peter Jackson directed. Its a Comedy/Sci-Fi/Action Splatter film so is bound to get plenty of strange reactions from people, its just so over the top that it becomes hilarious! Everything is overdone including the cheesy acting and special effects but it all combines to make something, in my opinion, magical. Its basically based around aliens invading a small made up New Zealand town to harvest humans to turn them into fast-food for their home planet! Go hire this if you get the chance, and although it may be hard to track down if you do manage to find it you wont be disappointed! Oh and the entire film was improvised!
Watch the trailer for 'Bad Taste' Here
#2 - Once Were Warriors (1994)
This is a truly moving story, extremely disturbing in parts and unfortunately (or not?) shows the dark and real side of many New Zealand families and indeed communities. It is definitely not a film for the faint hearted, much of this movie make you feel as if you have been hit yourself in many parts and often leaves you feeling slightly sick in the stomach for the characters involved. It centres around a New Zealand Maori family struggling to make ends meet who are constantly beaten by their violent father and husband and are then made to feel like outcasts in the society and community in which they live. An amazing and touching film, reveals the secrets of what life is like for many in Aotearoa and indeed in many other places. Definitely see this, a local and international winner.
#2 - Once Were Warriors (1994)
This is a truly moving story, extremely disturbing in parts and unfortunately (or not?) shows the dark and real side of many New Zealand families and indeed communities. It is definitely not a film for the faint hearted, much of this movie make you feel as if you have been hit yourself in many parts and often leaves you feeling slightly sick in the stomach for the characters involved. It centres around a New Zealand Maori family struggling to make ends meet who are constantly beaten by their violent father and husband and are then made to feel like outcasts in the society and community in which they live. An amazing and touching film, reveals the secrets of what life is like for many in Aotearoa and indeed in many other places. Definitely see this, a local and international winner.
Watch the trailer for 'Once Were Warriors' Here
#1 - The Lord Of The Rings Trilogy (2001, 2002, 2003)
One film to rule them all? Finally the finest New Zealand film (films) i have seen, the entire Lord Of The Rings trilogy comprised of 'The Fellowship Of The Ring', 'The Two Towers' and 'The Return Of The King'. All epic movies directed by the amazing Peter Jackson. The LOTR trilogy are not only at the top of my favorite New Zealand films but are some of my favorite films of all time! Adventure, drama, action awesome CGI and battles any King would be proud of, these films really have it all, and for a fantasy nerd like myself it really cant get any better. If you are one of the few who are yet to see these amazing films, go and see them! Its awesome stuff!
#1 - The Lord Of The Rings Trilogy (2001, 2002, 2003)
One film to rule them all? Finally the finest New Zealand film (films) i have seen, the entire Lord Of The Rings trilogy comprised of 'The Fellowship Of The Ring', 'The Two Towers' and 'The Return Of The King'. All epic movies directed by the amazing Peter Jackson. The LOTR trilogy are not only at the top of my favorite New Zealand films but are some of my favorite films of all time! Adventure, drama, action awesome CGI and battles any King would be proud of, these films really have it all, and for a fantasy nerd like myself it really cant get any better. If you are one of the few who are yet to see these amazing films, go and see them! Its awesome stuff!
Watch the trailer for 'The Lord Of The Rings' trilogy Here
Well there you have it, my opinion of what the best New Zealand films are! Be sure to comment if you have any additions, there are many fine films made here in New Zealand and for a tiny country with a small population New Zealand continues to lead the film industry in many areas of production and special effects. Way to go Aotearoa, Kia Kaha!
Well there you have it, my opinion of what the best New Zealand films are! Be sure to comment if you have any additions, there are many fine films made here in New Zealand and for a tiny country with a small population New Zealand continues to lead the film industry in many areas of production and special effects. Way to go Aotearoa, Kia Kaha!
4 comments:
LOVES NO.1 and 5!! :) they were great :)
Yea same, both great, LOTR ultimate in my books! Samurai was awesome, cant beat people fighting with samurai swords, although have to give Cruise credit, he acted wonderfully in that flick. Hope u had a cool day
i've watched 1 and 4 =) we should do lotr marathon as well!
oh btw, i clicked all three of the review thingy at the bottom of the post. just in case u thought somebody actually thinks your post is rubbish. teehee.
Hehe, thanks emma! :P I dun mind if someone finds it rubbish though. Hope ur exam ok la
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