Waru (Film at Lumière Cinemas)
A sisterhood of Māori female directors bravely share their insights into the complexity of child abuse, in a sequence of eight short films that become one.
Rated M Violence, offensive language, sex scenes and content that may disturb.
At the centre of their stories is Waru, a boy killed at the hands of a caregiver. His tangi, set on a small rural marae, is the centrepiece of the film, but there is an underlying disturbance of heavy themes touching on culture, custom and shame.
We see a single death through the differing lenses of the extended family, community, and in one sharp sequence, national media too. Waru weaves multiple reactions and offers a glimpse into the events which ensue upon the killing of a child and the conflict created among loved ones.
The subject could hardly be heavier, but this is a hugely important film. Unless we are willing to be tested, we have no chance of reducing our shameful child abuse rate here in Aotearoa. It’s a film everyone should see and talk about.
This event is part of the Matariki celebrations(external link) at Te Matatiki Toi Ora The Arts Centre (3 to 20 Hōngongoi July 2023).
Celebrate Matariki with talented artists from Ōtautahi and beyond. Experience outstanding performances, an exhibition of Māori visual arts, a stunning Kapa Haha showcase, exciting kid's wānanga (workshops) and a Matariki mākete (market).
Rated M Violence, offensive language, sex scenes and content that may disturb.
At the centre of their stories is Waru, a boy killed at the hands of a caregiver. His tangi, set on a small rural marae, is the centrepiece of the film, but there is an underlying disturbance of heavy themes touching on culture, custom and shame.
We see a single death through the differing lenses of the extended family, community, and in one sharp sequence, national media too. Waru weaves multiple reactions and offers a glimpse into the events which ensue upon the killing of a child and the conflict created among loved ones.
The subject could hardly be heavier, but this is a hugely important film. Unless we are willing to be tested, we have no chance of reducing our shameful child abuse rate here in Aotearoa. It’s a film everyone should see and talk about.
This event is part of the Matariki celebrations(external link) at Te Matatiki Toi Ora The Arts Centre (3 to 20 Hōngongoi July 2023).
Celebrate Matariki with talented artists from Ōtautahi and beyond. Experience outstanding performances, an exhibition of Māori visual arts, a stunning Kapa Haha showcase, exciting kid's wānanga (workshops) and a Matariki mākete (market).
Lumière Cinema, The Arts Centre, 26 Rolleston Avenue, Christchurch Central
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