Waru

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BBFC Ratingf-rated FilmWaru

Certificate15
Year2017
GenreDrama
Director(s)Various
LanguageEnglish
CountryNew Zealand
Running Time1HR 26MINS
Extra InfoPartially Subtitled
SeasonMain Programme

A groundbreaking production from eight female Māori filmmakers, Waru is the story of a small New Zealand town coming to terms with a bitter tragedy - the death of a small boy, Waru, at the hands of his caregiver. A special screening for International Women’s Day.

Eight ten-minute segments, each shot in a single take, set at exactly the same time and with a female lead, focus on the impact of Waru’s death in different corners of the community. The films combine to tell a bold and inspirational story of grief, guilt, addiction, bravery and redemption. 

Charm, Queen of the Kitchen

Charm learns to accept that she can’t change the world. 

Anahera

A teacher struggles to keep face, hiding infidelities and guilt over Waru’s death. 

Mihi

A solo parent learns to listen to her children. 

Em

A young woman hits rock bottom and realises that the only way is up. 

Ranui

An elderly woman relinquishes community pride in order that her grandchild might find spiritual peace. 

Kiritapu

A young Māori reporter risks everything to set the story straight. 

Mere

A teenage girl draws strength from her ancestors to expose her abuser. 

Titty & Bash

A woman risks life to break a cycle of violence.



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