Loading Docs, a mighty springboard for short New Zealand documentaries, recently released 10 new films for 2017 revolving around the theme of ‘diversity’. Check out the collection below.
HE KĀKANO AHAU – FROM THE SPACES IN BETWEEN
Learn what it means to be a takatāpui (Māori LGBTQI) activist in this film from director Kathleen Winter, following Kassie (Ngāti Raukawa ki te Tonga) during Gay Pride celebrations.
LUCKIE STRIKE
Director Melissa Nickerson follows Mike and Dave, two underground explorers, in this gorgeously shot film showcasing New Zealand’s most spectacular caves.
SURREAL ESTATE
John Radford is an artist. Ron Jadford is a real estate agent. In this film from director Ursula Williams, the two egos wage war as art clashes with commerce.
150611 Lawrence Smith/Fairfax Media
Artist John Radford has built a collection of miniature weatherboard homes similar to the ones that used to be located in the valley behind the photograph and where currently three motorway underpasses travel through central Auckland.
ASIAN MEN TALK ABOUT SEX
Director Chye-Ling Huang and producers Ruby Reihana-Wilson and Kelly Gilbride talk to Asian men about sex. If the title didn’t make that clear.
AJAX THE KEA CONSERVATION DOG
Director Michael Weatherall follows the world’s only Kea Conservation dog Ajax, who is a key part to maintaining the endangered South Island species.
EAST MEETS EAST
This story about life, death and supermarkets follows a 79-year-old Chinese grandmother, what she’s observed living in New Zealand, and the things that bring her joy. From filmmakers Julie Zhu and Tema Pua.
KOTUKU RERENGA RUA
On the brink of death, a Māori academic is brought back to life in this film by directors Tim Worrall and Aaron Smart.
#LOSING
A Kiwi performer describes his debilitating bone disease on stage in this film by directors Damian Golfinopoulos and Stjohn Milgrew.
THE COFFIN CLUB
These Kiwi seniors are putting the ‘FUN’ back in ‘FUNERAL’ in this musical short by director Briar March.
UNION
A young Māori man who has never played rugby before finds solace and acceptance in the sport when he moves to Japan.
