Northspur

Unique characters and solid performances combined with excellent cinematography and iconic Marlborough scenery make this a not to be missed New Zealand thriller. The innovative modes of attack and defense keep the suspense and pace moving along in this action packed and thoughtful film. The cabin at the heart of the movie contains violence, compassion, compromise, conflicting loyalties and intrigue. Congratulations to the large team that put this together. The opening night in Blenheim showcased Marlborough wine and food and gave everyone involved the chance to come together for a memorable night,

While there were a few small holes in the plot, the movie overall is of exceptional quality, especially factoring in the tiny pool of talent it drew from (the top of the South Island NZ, there's not exactly a huge abundance of people to choose from here). The acting was very well done from both the major and minor characters, the humor was on point and not used too often, and the props and environmental design were quite impressive, especially, again, considering the budget and talent pool. All in all a very good watch and hopefully a snapshot of what's to come from the Top of the South film industry in the coming decades. Proud to be living in the region where this film was produced.

Northspur is hands down a quality tribute to the spirit of independent film making; the story is unique and fresh, full of action and tension. And its plentiful charm is that it's surprisingly thoughtful, and left me thinking back over various moments for days afterwards; what else can one want from a movie that it leaves wonderful memories?

The performances from the lead actors are rich and spot on, as their deeply practical view of a world gone mad intersects and sometimes collides with a younger generations optimism for a more harmonious future.

Ive been making and enjoying films for 4 decades, and I've never been privileged to see a more unforgettably poignant moment in cinema than when Marshal Napier's character concludes his role with a beautiful smile and leaves the screen, in this case forever, as very sadly he passed away just before Northspur/Battle Cabin was released; a fine conclusion to a lifetimes work.

Call it Northspur down under, or Battle Cabin elsewhere, this is a sweetheart of a story, masquerading as an action piece, and not to be overlooked.

A modest budget accomplishment from real film makers, Northspur / Battle Cabin punches way above its weight.

Set in the stunning Nelson/Marlborough region of New Zealand, this "defend your turf", "family comes first", "where did he get a hand grenade from?" film is genuinely a good watch! With it's stunning backdrop, the cabin in the woods is a classic NZ shack that sees itself home to some quirky one liners and emotional interactions between some classic Australasian actors and some promising young talent. I found myself chuckling when I was meant to, gripped when I needed to be and in the most part, entertained the whole way through. I think this film is very well constructed and may well, in years to come, be a secret favourite amongst NZ film lovers. A must see to support independent film making! Congratulations to all involved.

This is not a film that I would normally be interested in seeing, but I found it really enjoyable. It is high action, high tension, engaging, well paced, no flagging - very impressed with cinematography, sound and acting. The invention in story twist and turns and special effects really admirable, and the top of the South Island setting made it even more enjoyable.

Sound and soundtrack captured the tone - I don't think I have heard NZ bush bird song sound so brilliantly since that scene with a traffic cop bonking in the car off roadside on the West Coast in Goodbye Pork Pie and that's a long way back - brilliant.