Matariki (2010)

A random act of violence leaves eight people in crisis, searching for hope and new beginnings, as the Matariki constellation (Maori New Year) rises in the Southern skies.

Director:

Michael Bennett

Writers:

Iaheto Ah Hi (story), Michael Bennett (story),

Stars:

Jason Wu, Susana Tang, Michael Whalley

3 wins & 6 nominations.

Cast

Credited cast:
Jason Wu	...	Aleki Silao
Susana Tang	...	Spit
Michael Whalley	...	Jermaine
Alix Bushnell	...	Lisa
Edwin Wright	...	Gunge
Vela Manusaute	...	Russ
Iaheto Ah Hi	...	Tyrone
Jarod Rawiri	...	Rick
Sara Wiseman	...	Megan
Odette Warder	...	Shopper
Mark Ruka	...	Tama
Rest of cast listed alphabetically:
Ben Baker	...	Rick's Dad
Serena Cotton	...	Social Worker
Bella Kalolo	...	Choir Lead Singer
Camille Keenan	...	ICU Nurse

Storyline

A random act of violence leaves eight people in crisis, searching for hope and new beginnings, as the Matariki constellation (Maori New Year) rises in the Southern skies.

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Taglines:

In the darkest night the stars still shine

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Genres:

Drama

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Details

Official Sites:

Official site

Country:

New Zealand

Language:

Maori English Samoan Cantonese

Release Date:

18 November 2010 (New Zealand)

Filming Locations:

Otara, New Zealand

Company Credits

Production Co:

Filmwork

Technical Specs

Color:

Color

Aspect Ratio:

1.85 : 1

User Reviews

A fairly bleak and forgettable drama, but enjoyable overall.

So, if you're a fan of films where one event starts a chain re-action through people's lives, you might get something out of this. MIGHT. Every cultural stereotype in New Zealand has been thrown in mix without any real thought or consideration. It works, however, for the 80 minutes leading up to the end, which no matter how desperate the attempt, doesn't have any mental effect on us. It's more informative, than it is deeply affecting. But as a drama, it's good, and at times inspiring. But the film is easily forgettable right after 30 minutes with no real great scenes to talk about afterwards. The attitude does somewhat improve the ending, with some real dedicated acting that will bring tears to your eyes, but not greatly move you. However, the plot gets lost in the middle, before the director paints it black and then resorts to a totally different ending.

The film has no depth-although the acting and characterization are good, in the end they are just making faces and talking pretty. And even though the acting itself is (fairly) good, once the film is finished, we realize that in the end, we just don't care.