New Zealand Film Festival 2012 at the Shang

Yesterday, I attended a special screening of Boy, the highest-grossing New Zealand film of all time and one of the films lined up for the New Zealand Film Festival 2012 at the Shang. The story is set in 1984 and revolves around Boy, a dreamer who loves Michael Jackson so much that he imagines his absent father, Alamein, to be just like the singer. When Alamein returns to reveal he’s been at jail for robbery, Boy has to face the man he thought he knew.

Boy is a simple yet well-written movie, which was written and directed by Taika Waititi, who also happens to play the father, Alamein. Indeed, he’s one talented man. It’s funny, it’s nostalgic, it’s beautiful… but more importantly, it’s honest and in a way is a perfect movie to represent to New Zealand (we all know that NZ has wonderful scenery, which was highlighted in the film). The visuals reminded me of those serene Japanese films that I love like A Gentle Breeze in the Village.

More than the tight script, the actors, especially the children did a wonderful job. I particularly loved “Rocky”‘s effortless yet heartfelt performance.

I had a chance to have a little chat with Mr. Andy White of the Embassy of New Zealand and he explained that the objectives of this film festival are to showcase the talent of the people working in their film industry and show the diverse culture of their country. All of the films are good, he said but if he were to recommend his favorites, he said we shouldn’t miss Sione’s Wedding and The Whale Rider.

Here’s a complete list of the DIVERSE films that are lined up for the New Zealand Film Festival 2012 at the Shang (click to enlarge):

I’d surely watch Mr. White’s recommendations… When? Here’s the schedule:

I think Feb 24. Yup, I’ll watch on Feb 24 if there are no other schedules…

The festival runs on February 23 to 28 at the Shang Cineplex. It’s on a first come, first served basis so make sure you’d be there way ahead of the scheduled screening. I really love the Shang for hosting all these festivals for free! It’s indeed a treat for all the film buffs like moi~

For inquiries, contact 633-7851 loc.113 or log on to www.shangrila-plaza.com. Add Shangri-La Plaza on Facebook: shangrilaplazaofficialfanpage.

Please don’t forget to follow us on Twitter: Kring, My Korean Boyfriend, Jimmy Kim
And “like” us on Facebook: Kring Elenzano / The Krimmy Couple / C.N.A. Philippines
Subscribe to my YouTube account: FunnySexy