Ten NZ documentary shorts available online

Following the premiere screening at Auckland’s Academy Cinemas of 10 new documentary films this week, the films will be available to view and share on the Loading Docs website (www.loadingdocs.net).

Representing a diverse range of subjects and filmmaking styles, the films explore unique aspects of "home" and showcase the filmmaking talents of some of New Zealand’s finest filmmakers: Aidee Walker and Alexander Gandar (Catkiller); Joel Kefali and Amber Easby (Dans); Andrew Scott (Homing); Zoe McIntosh (Living Like Kings); Robyn Paterson and Paula Boock (Queer Selfies); Greg Jennings and Jack Nicol (Stop/Go); Alex Sutherland and Rebekah Kelly (The Jump); Tim Worrall and Aaron Smart (The Road to Whakarae); Prisca Bouchet and Nick Mayow (Today); Kirsty Griffin and Vivienne Kernick (Wayne).

Loading Docs producers Anna Jackson and Julia Parnell chose a three-minute format for the documentaries because they wanted the films to be easily viewed and shared online and on mobile devices where viewers favour short-form content.

“The three-minute format presented our filmmakers with a really tough challenge but it also pushed them to be creative and original in their approach to documentary storytelling,” producer Julia Parnell says.

“The result is 10 remarkable short films that will capture viewers’ attention and imagination. Even though the films are very short, they still have the power to move, entertain, challenge and inspire.” 

From funding to production and distribution, Loading Docs is an initiative that aims to take risks, encourage innovation and boldly pursue new opportunities for filmmakers in a rapidly changing media landscape. Loading Docs is funded by the NZ Film Commission and NZ On Air’s Ignite Digital Media Fund.

“In the process of making their Loading Docs films, our filmmakers have successfully explored crowdfunding through PledgeMe, increased their awareness of tools for outreach and promotion and honed their filmmaking skills in a new short format,” Loading Docs producer Anna Jackson says.

The films will be freely available at www.loadingdocs.net and the producers of Loading Docs would like to see the films shared widely, both locally and internationally. “We hope all New Zealanders will show their support for our talented local filmmakers by sharing their favourite Loading Docs films with the world.”