He Māngai He Kōrero, He Māngai He Kōrero

Every person has a story, every person has story.

Rotorua Indigenous Film Festival (RIFF) presents a selection of short films from New Zealand curated by Piripi and Richard Curtis.

Mareikura

Directed by Alika Maikau, Tihini Grant & Tristin Greyeyes

Anahera is a 14-year-old who faces mounting pressure to receive ta moko as part of a cultural custom. The traditional ritual will show her commitment to serving her people.

Daddys Girl (Kotiro)

Directed by Cian Elyse White

Love remains, even when all else seems lost. Te Puhi prepares herself for the toughest day of her life. The harsh reality of her father's dementia forces her to face the painful truth that she must let go of the most important person in her life – her daddy.

Ways to See

Directed by Jessica Sanderson

A young girl uses mystical powers to reconnect with her absent father. When a mysterious woman, beautiful and otherworldly, comes for a visit. The young girl and her mother face the truth of his absence.

A Matter of Time

Directed by Paula Whetu Jones (Te Aitanga a Mahaki, Whakatohea, Ngati Porou)

A social commentary watching the lives of five teenagers as each “slice of their life” is revealed. Sometimes life gets in the way of living because survival at any cost is the all-encompassing goal.

Aitu

Directed by Piripi Curtis, Gabby Faaiuaso

For some whanau, dealing with demons is just part of growing up. While traveling at night, Niwa and her father are pulled over by a cop in a tapu area that is home to an Aitu (Aiku). An Aitu sees the chance for revenge and sets about using its powers to full effect.

Hangi Pants

Directed by Jake Mokomoko

A flamboyant display of Karanga (Māori Welcome) takes place during a tangi (funeral) of a man loved by many, when a succession of ex-wives show up to outdo each other.