The first Māori action film called 'The Dead Lands' has made its New Zealand debut, with a night of celebrating Māori success within the film industry.
The film screened last night in Manukau to an audience that featured the cast and crew of the film.
Producer, Tainui Stephens, says the main objective of the film is to show off the Māori world but staying grounded within our traditions.
The star-studded cast features James Rolleston (Boy, The Dark Horse), Lawrence Makoare (The Hobbit, Die Another Day, Lord of the Rings), Te Kohe Tūhaka (Sione’s 2: Unfinished Business), Xavier Horan (The Dark Horse, Dean Spanley), George Henare (Once Were Warriors) and Rena Owen (Once Were Warriors).
Te Kohe Tūhaka, known as Wirepa 'The Fighter', said being part of the movie was an honour.
It's an action film that highlights the use of Māori weaponry, as well as mythical creatures, and according to actress Raukura Turei, the film highlights the growth of te reo Māori.
The general public release of The Dead Lands in New Zealand and Australia is October 30, however keen NZ viewers may be able to get in early at certain cinemas from tonight onwards.