First films for Whānau Mārama 2023 announced


Whānau Marama, the beloved New Zealand International Film Festival, returns to Wellington from 27 July to 13 August this year. This week they’ve announced the first five films of the programme, including the acclaimed donkey tale, EO directed by Jerzy Skolimowski and Past Lives, the debut film by Celine Song about old flames reconnecting after being separated.

“We’re thrilled with the films that are coming through for selection in 2023. These first five provide a taster of what audiences can expect to see in a very strong line-up,” said NZIFF’s Head of Programming, Michael McDonnell.

“From childhood sweethearts separated by distance and time, to nail-biting escapes from the hermit kingdom of North Korea; from a donkey-eyed view of the best and worst of humanity to a piercing French courtroom drama and a smouldering comedy of manners set on Germany’s Baltic coast. These first films promise to exact a range of emotional responses.”

By attending film festivals around the world, the programming team bring New Zealand audiences the very best of global cinema. With the Cannes Film Festival occurring later this month, there is still plenty to be reviewed and selected. Further announcements will be made over the next couple of months.

Don’t forget that as a Film Society Member you are eligible for discounted tickets!