Executive-produced by Taika Waititi, this fiercely feminist Māori-led debut is an emotive subversion of the ‘coming-of-age delinquent’ narrative.

Nellie and Daisy attempt to escape the institution for delinquent girls in 1954 New Zealand, however not only are they caught, it triggers a relocation to a facility on a remote island. The duo become a trio as well-to-do Lou joins them, and life on the island takes shape under the command of devout Matron. The trio rail against the system, dubious of the benevolence of the bible and taking refuge in their blossoming friendship. It’s hard to reform girls who don’t believe they need reforming. However, a sense of doom settles in when experimental forms of punishment take place in the dead of night. Nellie and Daisy plot rebellion, but unexpectedly find themselves at odds with Lou, who is afraid to break the rules.

Director Josephine Stewart-Te Whiu said: “The story is set in 1950s New Zealand, in a world where, ridiculously, teenage girls were seen as a risk to society. It’s a film that celebrates the joy and power of female friendships.”

Screening with NT short film WINIMAKU ARA PAPA WIIMATJARAKU (2024 | Rosalyn Brenda Boko, David Boko | Australia | UC 15+).

An animated story about a dog that falls from the sky, based on artwork of the late Margaret Nampitjinpa (Williams) Boko. Made in partnership with Tangentyere Artists, this is a Ngunytjuku Mamaku Tjukurpa Kanyini Wanka production.

Screening with short film FIRST HORSE (2024 | 11m | Awanui Simich-Pene | New Zealand | UC15+).

It’s 1826, and Aotearoa is on the cusp of colonisation. A young Māori girl’s encounter with a dying man and his horse exposes her to the best and worst of her rapidly changing world.

Trailer: https://youtu.be/wYGNi9NQlSU