Loading Docs Showcase: Season 10

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This year marked the 10th anniversary of Loading Docs, an initiative dedicated to platforming emerging and established filmmakers from Aotearoa to produce resonant documentary shorts that challenge and inspire.

This year’s showcase of six short films was no exception, with each team offering a unique interpretation of the theme: TE KIMIHANGA, TE HAHAUNGA (“Attention”). Hosted on Wednesday at the Hollywood Avondale (always a good time) and MC’d masterfully by Tamati “can I get a HAYUH” Rimene-Sproat, the evening was a celebration of stories that ranged from personal reflections to global issues, with filmmakers drawing the audience’s focus toward matters that deserve deeper consideration.

TamatiA key strength of the evening’s lineup was the thoughtful balance between storytelling and artistic expression; Mauri Moana highlighted a significant impending ecological crisis that rarely gets airtime in mainstream media , while Here The Wild Things Are succeeded in telling a story that “inspires, not scares” (Prod, Madison Smith) by adopting an upbeat tone and quirky whimsical style (a subtle nod to Wes Anderson?) to offer a refreshing, hopeful take on social change.

Tū Tonu – Still Standing interrogated the connection and parallels between humans and nature, and the struggles of Maori and Palestinian peoples, highlighting how both have faced the extraction of their power and resources from the whenua. The film (and Zane Wedding’s words) served as a poignant reminder of the importance of standing together like a grove of trees, so that none of us fall.

 

The Man Outside flagged a troubling issue around stalking laws (or lack thereof) and served as a strong call to action. Its narrative structure was engaging and ended on a note that reinforced the film’s message with a sense of urgency and purpose.

Out There closed the evening on a pensive note, with breathtaking visuals of Te Waipounamu and evocative sound design. The film carried a sweet and wholesome message about following the maps we drew as children, and listening to our inner voices.

A special mention to Hifi Ulu, which stood out for its emotional immediacy, intergenerational family dynamics and exploration of identity. Early on in the film, Luka’s father’s vulnerability resonated deeply and set the tone for what unfolded as a deeply poetic and culturally resonant coming of age story. The film was intimately captured, with thoughtful sound design and comedic moments woven through. It struck a beautiful balance of humour, depth and emotion, giving access to a world and context that the audience might otherwise not have the opportunity to peer inside.

 

Overall, the evening was a resounding success in highlighting important stories that deserve our attention, with more than half serving as a reminder that change comes from standing firm on our causes and taking collective action. By the end of the screening (and the drinks that followed) it was clear that the filmmakers had not only brought important issues to light but had also created a space for dialogue, introspection, and connection—true to the mission of Loading Docs’ ten-year legacy.

Loading Doc

All six films are listed below and will be available to stream from this Tues 1 Oct.

Mauri Moana (DIRECTOR: NATHANIEL HOWE, PRODUCER: STEVIE DAVIS-TANA)

Beneath the waters of Aotea, Great Barrier Island, a toxic algae silently spreads, suffocating the life force of the seafloor and threatening the island’s marine life. The invasive Caulerpa casts a creeping shadow over Aotearoa’s ocean depths, disrupting the deep connection between the tangata whenua and the moana.

Hifi Ulu (DIRECTOR: CHANTELLE BURGOYNE, PRODUCER: HAYLEY FELISE)

As his tenth birthday approaches, Luka prepares for a significant Niuean rite of passage. The ceremony becomes a catalyst for cultural expectations and unspoken conflicts. Luka simply hopes to navigate this special day in his own way.

Here the Wild Things Are (DIRECTOR: KELLY GILBRIDE,  PRODUCER: MADISON SMITH)

Each year, Aotearoa joins a high-stakes global competition where thousands of ecologists and enthusiasts scour cities, photographing wildlife and hoping to discover new species. What starts out as a playful quest ends up raising a serious question: Can these snapshots help save the planet, one photo at a time?

Tū Tonu – Still Standing (DIRECTOR: BRADY POLKINGHORNE, PRODUCER: ANDY DAY)

After a 60-day protest to save Auckland’s ancient trees lands him in jail, champion tree climber Zane Wedding has a life-changing realisation. Guided by the wairua of his tupuna, Zane must follow a new path, knowing that standing up for what’s right might mean sacrificing what he loves.

The Man Outside (DIRECTOR: LIV MCCLYMONT, PRODUCER: JESSICA TODD)

Abandoned by the law, a woman and her flatmates are left to fend for themselves against her relentless stalker, turning their everyday lives into a real-life thriller.

Out There (DIRECTOR: ALEXIS SMITH, PRODUCER: HARRY WYNN)

Filmmaker  Alexis  Smith joins a mysterious network in New Zealand, dedicated to communicating with extraterrestrials. Through meditative practices under the stars, she seeks to uncover the mysteries of the universe whilst confronting her own sense of reality.

Shamin Yazdani

Shamin is an Iranian New Zealander and multi-hyphenate creative engaged in storytelling across diverse mediums and platforms. She began her professional journey in the UAE and London, steadily advancing to creative producing in broadcast television. Shamin’s contributions in film and creative direction have featured on various platforms and publications including BBC World News, Vogue Arabia, Elle Arabia, Harper’s Bazaar Arabia, The Gulf Film Festival, MENA Film Festival, London Shubbak Festival and more.

Shamin

Shamin Yazdani
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