Join us for a selection of films by Mâori filmmakers exploring and celebrating the indigenous culture of Aotearoa (New Zealand), Saturday November 1, 2008 at 12pm.


12 p.m. - Short Films
Hawaikii (2006, 11 min)
The heartwarming story of a Māori girl's first day of school. Directed by Mike Jonathan.

Two Cars, One Night (2003, 12 min)
This humorous and charming film about first love between two Māori children was an Oscar nominee for Best Live Action Short Film in 2005. Directed by Taika Waititi

Taua: War Party (2007, 15 min)
Winner of Best Short Film in the 2007 National Geographic's All Roads Film Festival, Taua is a sensory-rich journey through the ancient Māori forest, where an act of compassion speaks to the true value of leadership. Directed by Tearepa Kahi

Tama Tu (2005, 17 min)
An award-winning short film in Berlin and Stockholm's International Film Festivals and recipient of honorable mention at Sundance, Tama Tu depicts soldiers of the Māori Battalion as they take a brief break from fighting during World War II. Directed by Taika Waititi

1 p.m. - Guarding the Family Silver
Guarding the Family Silver (2005, 46 min)
A look at the appropriation of traditional Māori symbols, images, and words in the global marketplace. Directed by Toby Mills and Moana Maniapoto.

Film Festival Poster Master.pdf
The 2008 Aotearoa Film Festival is set to launch August 24 with an impressive line-up of films and their creators touring communities throughout the south pacific islands. This traveling showcase is a celebration of indigenous films and filmmakers with the aim of developing a synergy of creativity and accessibility through the presentation of daytime workshops and special film screenings. All Roads Film Project Director Francene Blythe will join industry stalwarts Mireta Mita and Bird Runningwater to lead the delegation running through September 5.

All Roads Filmmakers made a significant impact at the 2007 Santa Fe Film Festival awards ceremony collecting 3 awards. The night kicked off to a rousing start as host Ali McGraw called announced All Roads seed granteeDarlene Johnson's (pictured w/Brutus) "Crocodile Dreaming"as the festival's "Best Short Format Film" as selected by the Jury. Darlene was shocked and humbled that her mystical film, that delves into ancient aboriginal traditions, was recognized among the many competing films covering more mainstream subject.

More to come...

Attention filmmakers.  The American Indian Film Institute is seeking film and video entries for the 32nd Annual American Film Festival.  Known as the nation's oldest and most prestigious venue for American Indian Arts and Entertainment, this is a great opportunity to showcase work by and or about American Indian or Canadian First Nations people on a platform of excellence and integrity. Films will be presented November 2-10, 2007 in San Francisco, CA. 

Deadline for entry is: August 10, 2007

Check out the AIFI Website at: www.aifisf.com for more details.

More information can also be obtained by writing or calling the American Indian Film Institute at:
333 Valencia Street, Suite 322, San Francisco, CA  94103; Phone: 415-554-0525; Fax: 415-554-0542