2025 Programme

Collect your lanyards from the information desk between 8.00 and 8:55am.

BSS 2025 keynote will be a powerful and inspiring address from one of our international guests, Bird Runningwater. A world leader of Indigenous screen storytelling, Bird brings a global perspective shaped by his 20-years as Indigenous Director of the Sundance Institute. In this rare Aotearoa appearance, this visionary producer, curator, and advocate, who has been at the heart of amplifying underrepresented indigenous voices in Film and TV for decades, will speak about Our Potential as a global screen community, and the role authentic indigenous stories and their creators will play in the future. Don’t miss this keynote from a world leading changemaker and thought leader, whose work continues to shape the future of screen storytelling on a global scale.

When people say "There’s no audience for that”…. we say "Let us show you" Hear how Matewa Media worked with the biggest entertainment company in the world to produce Disney Reo Māori films for audiences in Aotearoa and around the world. Established in 2017, Matewa Media is a multi-media organisation whose goal is to contribute to te reo Māori, the culture and indigenous stories. To date their Reo Māori titles include The Lion King, Moana, Encanto, Coco, Frozen and most recently Moana 2. The wāhine toa collective leading this kaupapa are Chelsea Winstanley, Tweedie Waititi and Mia Mārama Henry-Teirney, bringing decades of experience to this mahi. Through this work they have elevated Māori storytelling to new heights and created a legacy for generations of mokopuna. As well as being a celebration of this extraordinary achievement, this will be a fascinating and entertaining conversation and is not to be missed.

The Māori word for land is Whenua, it is also the word for the placenta, giving life through the umbilical cord. This session will explore three successful New Zealand TV series and each one’s relationship between the whenua that nurtures their stories and the genre of crime drama. Join celebrated NZ screen industry leaders Tim Balme (The Brokenwood Mysteries), Michael Bennett (The Gone) and Philly de Lacey (A Remarkable Place to Die) as they explore their shows intrinsic connection to whenua, and what has made these three shows become so universally popular and commercially successful both locally and around the world.

"Workmates began as a true story—but the moment we let go of the facts, the emotional truth came into focus" Workmates director Curtis Vowell, writer and star Sophie Henderson, and producer Sam Snedden talk about the inspiration for the story and how embracing fiction gave them the freedom to explore what mattered in the narrative. A talk about how, sometimes, what really happened can get in the way of what's real.

The Hot Candle Wave team will discuss innovations made throughout their production which prioritised mental health, community and sustainability while making Mum, I’m Alien Pregnant. Join Alix Whittaker, Ilai Amar and Morgan Leigh Stewart as they lift the lid on the values, ideas & philosophies behind their unique production methodology. Both productions are coming to cinemas soon and are sure to add to what has already been an incredibly exciting year for local cinema.

Join Casting Director and Mental Health First Aid Instructor Miranda Rivers and Kelly Lucas from the Screen Industry Guild / ScreenSafe as they share insights into ongoing efforts to improve mental health outcomes in Aotearoa’s screen sector. This session provides an overview of the Behind the Scenes NZ – Te Oranga Hinengaro ScreenSafe Mental Health Survey 2025 – the first of its kind in Aotearoa – and explores the vital role of Mental Health First Aiders on set and beyond. Through a close look at local and international statistics, this session offers a "temperature check" on the current state of wellbeing in the industry, highlighting both challenges and progress. Miranda and Kelly will reflect on what the data tells us, where support is most needed, and how we can work together to break the cycle and create a safer, more sustainable screen sector for all.

AI Hackathon: Presentation & Awards (in Room 440 during lunch)

NZ On Air looks back to look forward. CE Cameron Harland and Head of Funding Amie Mills will take the audience on a journey of reflection on what they’ve learned lately, a data-laden deep dive into understanding funding impacts, how they are responding to sector needs, and a look ahead at what’s on the horizon. Don’t miss this vital session for those seeking funding support, or wanting to understand what information underpins NZ On Air’s funding strategy.

In a screen culture increasingly shaped by global audiences and cross-cultural exchange, what makes a story both deeply authentic and widely resonant? Join acclaimed international producers Fran Borgia (Ajoomma, Apprentice, A Land Imagined) and Paul Garnes (Queen Sugar, Selma, Origin) in panel discussion as they explore how culturally specific storytelling can break through borders, and why truth, nuance, and integrity matter more than ever. With decades of experience navigating the intersection of identity, place, and audience, Borgia and Garnes will share insights from their careers working across continents and genres. Together, they’ll discuss how to champion underrepresented voices, collaborate across cultures, and make work that is rooted in local truth but speaks to the world. This conversation will spark vital kōrero for Aotearoa’s screen storytellers: How do we stay grounded in our own voices while reaching a global stage? And what does authentic storytelling really mean in an interconnected industry. How can NZ’s stories resonate globally?

Come hear how the transcendent soundtrack within Ka Whawhai Tonu was crafted, from the creators themselves. Tiki and Arli will guide you through how they crafted this stunning work with real examples and live playing in the room, giving you a unique insight into this amazing collaboration. Joined by director Mike Johnathan, the team will explore how they worked together to craft with precision and passion the film’s composition, which has been praised for the way it weaves traditional Māori Taonga pūoro with cinematic orchestration, creating an auditory experience that is as resonate as the story it tells.

Shoshana McCallum (Madam, Head High, Inside) and Briar Grace-Smith (Swift Street, Waru, Cousins) will delve into the complexities of writing for screen in Aotearoa, sharing insights into their craft, creative process, and the cultural and personal forces that shape their work. From developing authentic characters to navigating the industry as women of vision, this kōrero is an examination of craft and will illuminate the power and necessity of strong female perspectives in our screen stories. Don't miss this opportunity to learn from two of Aotearoa’s most respected writers about their craft and how they shape powerful screen stories that resonate and connect to their audiences. Shoshana and Briar will speak to the importance of voice, representation, and the courage it takes to tell the stories only you can tell. This rich conversation will be full of warmth, humour, and hard-won wisdom and is must for screenwriters.

NZ On Air has just completed its second wave of Seen On Screen, a research project examining the diversity of characters in funded Scripted content, and how this is changing over time. Dr Fairooz Samy, Research Advisor will present the topline results, along with an introduction to a new ongoing research project, The Everyone Project Aotearoa. This joint initiative with Te Māngai Pāho and the NZ Film Commission will for the first time gather comprehensive data about the screen workforce in New Zealand, and will require participation from all on set.

Animation Meets Real-Time WAR IS OVER! brings the classic John Lennon and Yoko Ono song to life in this highly stylized, Oscar-winning short animation. The Wētā FX team went to work crafting the unique aesthetic, blending the painterly visuals of the production design with the gritty realism of war. Visual Effects Supervisor Keith Miller will explore the art and technology employed across production, revealing insights into Wētā’s approach to leveraging the strengths and efficiencies of real-time filmmaking with Unreal Engine while integrating with their existing VFX and animation pipelines.

Following their recent world premiere in Sydney, we’re excited to announce that Director Robert Sarkies and Screenwriter Fiona Samuel will be joining BSS 2025 to discuss their journey of developing and making of the much-anticipated NZ feature film Pike River. Based on the events and aftermath of the Pike River Mine Tragedy, the film follows two women as they fight for truth and accountability after losing loved ones in the disaster. Rob and Fiona will discuss their process, crafting a story from this tragic event, and how they upheld the integrity and mana of these unique real-life characters’. Known for his bold visual style and emotionally charged narratives, Rob has carved out a unique career, earning acclaim for his ability to balance cinematic innovation with tell deeply human stories. With credits including Out of the Blue, Scarfies and Jean, his work celebrates the authenticity of lived experience, making him one of the most compelling voices in contemporary NZ cinema.

"What has happened, might happen, or should happen, to the recent MCH consultation Modernising Media and Regulation? Join us for a panel discussion with some of the contributors Peter Thompson (Better Public Media), Gavin Ellis (Koi Tu) and Producer Richard Flecther as they talk to their submissions and discuss what the impact will be on the landscape of the NZ screen sector. Moderated by William Earl, who’s experience is across senior management and production and channel start-ups roles at TVNZ, twelve years of policy and regulatory experience with pay-tv, public and commercial broadcasters, telcos and NGOs in Asia and Eastern Europe. After a term as a Controller of Policy and Planning at BBC Corporate he established the NZ Freeview platform. This session is essential for all those interested in discussing and shaping the future of our screen sector. "

Join the Head of the Screen Canterbury, Petrina D’Rozario, international Producer Fran Borgia, Screen Auckland Manager Matt Horrocks and Producer Piripi Curtis as they discuss doing business with India and Singapore. Both a practical and strategic session informed by Petrina’s research, Piripi’s recent experience in co-producing an Indian film in Rotorua, Matts knowledge as a producer of Beyond the Known World a NZ/ Indian co-production and Fran’s vast experience of working at the highest level in Singapore. A must for all producers interested in expanding their work internationally into these territories.

In an industry in flux, where creativity collides with disruption, the role of artificial intelligence is being hotly contested. Is Ai a revolutionary tool that will supercharge storytelling, unlock new efficiencies, and democratise filmmaking - or is it a threat to originality, jobs, and the heart of human expression? Big Screen Symposium’s newly established centre piece The Aotearoa Screen Debate kicks off with a fiery motion: “Ai Will Save Our Screen Industry!” Three speakers will argue for the motion, championing the possibilities of Ai as a catalyst for innovation, accessibility, creativity and survival in a competitive global market. On the other side, three voices against will make the case that Ai undermines artistic integrity, devalues creative labour, and risks widening existing inequities. Expect bold ideas, sharp perspectives, and no easy answers. This session invites the screen sector of Aotearoa to grapple with one of the most urgent and divisive questions of our time. You’ll laugh, you’ll squirm, and you might even change your mind.

First 120 coffees are free! Kindly sponsored by Koawa studio

Join #1 New York Times Bestselling author, Heather Morris in a compelling conversation with UK Story Producer Ruth Underwood about the adaptation of Morris’s multi-million selling novel The Tattooist of Auschwitz into the multi award-winning TV series starring Harvey Keitel and NZ’s Melanie Lynskey. Morris and Underwood will delve into the creative journey of adapting a beloved and deeply human story from page to screen. Together, they’ll explore the challenges of staying true to a Holocaust survivor’s lived experience, the responsibilities of translating history into visual drama, and the collaborative process of crafting a series that is both respectful and emotionally resonant. This session will offer a rare insight into the unique journey of this project including the creative dynamics between author and story producer, and what it takes to bring powerful true stories from literature to a global television audience.

The Rule of Jenny Pen is a bold, genre-blurring NZ feature film that pushed creative and technical boundaries across production and post. This session brings together the Sound & Music teams to explore how they worked together to shape its unique tone. From practical decisions to stylized post workflows, discover how a cohesive creative vision, and tight collaboration, powered one of the most distinctive screen experiences to come out of Aotearoa.

This year we invite you to join a kōrero with leading screen sector Rangatira as they explore screen storytelling through a Māori lens, and the diversity that entails. Tihini Grant, Kath Akuhata-Brown and Mike Johnathan alongside Te O Kahurangi Waaka, Manukura of the New Zealand Film Commission will have a kōrero with renowned International Indigenous storyteller and producer Bird Runningwater about Māori and indigenous storytelling. Unlike any other session at BSS 2025, in this one our panel will encourage a group discussion, exploring what it means to tell authentic Māori stories guided by Te Ao Māori (Māori world view) - from process to perspective, from values to voice. How do we honour whakapapa and whenua on screen? Can screenwriters and directors gain an insight from other artforms within Te Ao Māori, that would help guide them as they shape and tell their stories? What does true tino rangatiratanga look like in screen storytelling? And how can Indigenous creatives navigate an industry that hasn't always spoken our language? Through shared experiences, insights, and wānanga, this kōrero offers both inspiration and a challenge - not just for Māori filmmakers, but for anyone committed to the future of Indigenous storytelling in Aotearoa and beyond.

Writer/director/producer Miki Magasiva along with producers Mario Gaoa and Dan Higgins join award-winning filmmaker Stallone Vaiaoga-Ioasa for a deep dive into the making of Tinā - a powerful NZ feature film about grief, healing, cultural unity, and the power of music. This conversation will be as entertaining and engaging as the film itself, giving a unique insight into the journey of making this successful film, including the obstacles and hurdles they encountered, and how they stayed true to the vision. It’s been several years since a local film has had this kind of success at the box office. Find out more from these leading Pacific voices in film, as they lift the lid on what it takes to make a successful film in Aotearoa today.

From the creators of The Barefoot Bandits, Pipi Mā and Jandal Burn, NZ animation studio Mukpuddy comes to the Big Screen Symposium to kōrero about all things animation, including their newest charming and whimsical animation series, Bad Jelly and how this unique NZ animation studio has grown and developed over the past 22 years. Mukpuddy is known for pushing the limits of animation and producing eye-catching content with a distinct style, appealing to both children and adults. Come find out how they do what they do. Their latest production of bringing Spike Milligan’s original tale to life in such a unique and vibrant way, blends elements of surreal storytelling and slapstick humour in a wonderful adventure. Hear more about how this project was created and the journey it took, including how they attracted and worked with A-list international and local voice acting talents like Miriam Margolyes, UK Comedians James Acaster and Joe Wilkinson, and NZ comedians Rhys Darby and Rose Matafeo.

In this TV directing masterclass, Toa Fraser will delve into his creative process and talk about his experiences, from crafting powerful narratives rooted in his Fijian-New Zealand heritage to navigating the fast-paced world of episodic television. Attendees will learn how he brings authenticity and intensity to screen and have the chance to engage in a thoughtful conversation with a storyteller who is constantly pushing boundaries. For this session Toa will be joined by the brilliant first AD Teuila Field and together they will discuss practicalities and share insights about working in these demanding environments. This masterclass is a must for aspiring and mid-career directors wanting to develop careers in TV

Today, we at the Big Screen Symposium invite you to join two 30-minute sessions that are vital to elevating, sustaining and celebrating our creative sector here in Aotearoa. Firstly, the team from Able will explore the role of captioning and audio description in screen storytelling – not just the how but the why. Dan Buckingham and Sheldene Seth will share stories from audiences (blind/low vision/Deaf/hard of hearing), highlighting what’s at stake when people miss out on access, and will offer practical advice for producers and creators on building accessibility in from the start. They’ll also touch on the wider landscape in Aotearoa – including why Able exists as a not-for-profit, and how they’re delivering access at scale in the absence of mandated standards.

MIRIAMA GRACE- SMITH- BSS 2025 ARTIST With a career that spans painting, fashion, and film, Grace-Smith brings a rich artistic sensibility to the screen, infusing her work with depth, emotional truth, and striking imagery. Miriama is a full-time artist and works from her studio in Te Whanganui-a-tara, Wellington, where she refined her iconic style and shared her visions through her works. Not only is Miriama a talented artist, but she has also worked as a curator, muralist, illustrator, fashion designer, film costumier, and art director, currently focusing on her design, illustration, and mural work. Miriama is also a member of ‘Dream Girls Art Collective’ and designs in collaboration with New Zealand brand ‘Moana Rd’, bringing her amazing art to people across Aotearoa.

Everything, Everywhere, All At Once A summary of the wild year of change that was at the NZFC, and how we are looking to the future. A brief overview from the CEO, Annie Murray, followed by a moderated session with Head of Funding, Ainsley Gardiner and Development Lead, Esther Cahill-Chiaroni discussing priorities for the funding team. Join us to explore some essential elements of strong development, identifying your ambitions for your film and reaching its intended audience, and how these things will influence the programmes we support in the industry.

We are thrilled to announce a second session with Writer Ruth Underwood at BSS 2025. Ruth’s unique perspective on screenwriting for TV is informed from her extensive time in writers' rooms and script departments in both the UK and Australia. She was integral in attaining the TV adaptation rights for the international bestseller, The Tattooist of Auschwitz, which she went on to Story Produce. Ruth has several other notable credits having served as Script Producer on the Stan series Critical Incident, Script Editor on ABC and BBC One’s The Cry, Waterloo Rd, and ITV’s Taggart. She was also the Assistant Producer on both Clique and Stonemouth for BBC. During this workshop Ruth will cover writing fundamentals, adaptation, giving an insight into her experience of writing for television. She will also unpack the role of story producer, drawing on her experience working on writers' tables and in script departments in the UK and Australia. This one-off workshop is aimed at emerging screenwriters and is a great opportunity to upskill and take on new ideas.

The team at BSS 2025 is thrilled to offer an exclusive session about Prime Minister, the Sundance World Cinema Audience Award winning documentary. Co-Director Michelle Walshe (Chasing Great, Short Poppies) and producer Cass Avery (Hot Potato: The Story of The Wiggles, The Girl on the Bridge, Chasing Great) join moderator and filmmaker Leanne Pooley (Beyond the Edge, 25 April) for this kōrero, which is sure to be one of the highlights of BSS 2025. Known for their bold storytelling and commitment to projects that challenge and spark dialogue, these two will bring invaluable perspective into the making of this timely and intimate portrait of leadership. From their concept and collaboration, Walshe and Avery will share the creative and logistical journey behind the film, how access was negotiated, trust was built, and how the team navigated the delicate balance between journalistic integrity and emotional storytelling. This conversation will provide a unique insight with attendees into the responsibility of telling a story that sits at the intersection of politics, identity, and public expectation. For anyone passionate about documentary filmmaking and the power of cinema to shape national conversations, we invite you to hear about the amazing journey behind this important piece of Aotearoa history.

From large-scale battle scenes to subtle environmental world-building, the visual effects in Ka Whawhai Tonu played a vital role in immersing audiences in the film’s 19th-century setting. Accompany the film’s director Mike Jonathan and one of its key VFX producers James Brookes, who will be joined 3D artist Chris Lyne from Cause and FX, as they share the many trials and tribulations that went behind crafting the visual magic behind this historical drama masterpiece. Within this insightful conversation with some of the film’s leading visionaries, you can expect to learn much about what went into creating the films distinct look and its creative processes. From insight behind the tools and techniques used to create the film’s distinct style, to the collaborative work between departments to hone it for the screen, and the unique responsibility of using visual effects to honour Māori narratives. Don’t pass up on this enlightening opportunity to learn how cutting-edge VFX can serve storytelling in a way that is both culturally rich and visually unforgettable.

Big Screen Symposium is excited to welcome our colleagues Tracey Corbin Mattchet OAM (CEO), and Dianna La Grassa (COO/ Head of Screen) from Bus Stop Films in Australia to Aotearoa. Come learn more about this unique independent production company, which is dedicated to making daring, provocative films that examine human relationships and address important social issues seen in our world today. Bus Stop makes films with, for and about people from diverse backgrounds and abilities. They have a wider range of programmes that are taught by passionate filmmakers and industry experts to give participants a holistic filmmaking learning experience and offer participants increased, social, literacy and work ready skills.

We’re delighted to announce that the acclaimed creative team behind the powerful feature film Tinā will be holding an invite only masterclass at this year’s Big Screen Symposium. In this behind-the-curtain session, the team will explore the artistic and logistical journey of making Tinā, from script development and casting to production design, editing, and sound design. Attendees will hear first-hand how the team navigated creative challenges, stayed true to the emotional core of the story, and worked in collaboration to shape a film that is both powerful and profoundly human. This masterclass offers a rare opportunity to engage with the filmmakers behind the scenes from the director and writer to key creative collaborators, who will share their process in bringing this bold and intimate story to life. A must-attend for aspiring filmmakers who are seeking insight into the creative decisions that define meaningful cinematic storytelling from an industry veteran. This Masterclass is by invitation and open to all PISA, Ngā Aho Whakaari and PASC scholarships BSS 2025 recipients.

BSS 2025 presents an exclusive “In Conversation” with acclaimed US producer Paul Garnes. Paul’s work has shaped some of the most defining screen stories of the past decade. Best known for his collaboration with Ava DuVernay on projects like Selma, Queen Sugar, When They See Us, and Origin, Garnes brings a unique insight into producing bold, socially resonant, and emotionally rich screen content. In this wide-ranging kōrero, Garnes will discuss the craft of producing, building creative partnerships, and the responsibility of telling stories that matter, offering reflections on how to navigate the evolving screen landscape while staying rooted in purpose and authenticity. This is a truly rare opportunity to hear directly from one of the most influential producers working today. An essential conversation for anyone passionate about the power of storytelling in helping to shape our culture and the world around us.

Get ready for an exclusive glimpse into the future of NZ cinema at BSS 2025, where delegates are treated to a sneak peek of highly anticipated films ahead of their official release. This special showcase offers a rare opportunity to experience bold new stories, innovative filmmaking, and fresh voices before they hit the big screen. Whether you're a film aficionado, a curious creative, or an industry insider, this preview session is your chance to be among the first to witness the next wave of standout big screen content. Hear from the creatives and teams behind these anticipated films by joining us for this exciting window into what’s coming up, be part of the conversation before the credits even roll. Holy Days Mārama Mum, I'm Alient Pregnant Pike River POP Went Up The Hill Workmates

• Irirangi Te Motu NZ On Air • Te Tumu Whakaata Toanga NZ Film Commission • Te Māngai Pāho

• The Department of Post

• Guilds • The WingNut Group • Regional Film Offices of New Zealand

• Matewa Media – Producers • Mukpuddy

• AWGACS • NZ Writers Guild

• Bird Runningwater • Dan Higgins • Briar Grace-Smith • Shoshana McCallum • Michael Bennett

• Park Road Post Production • Images & Sound

• Irirangi Te Motu NZ On Air • Te Tumu Whakaata Toanga NZ Film Commission • Te Māngai Pāho

• Rob Sarkies • Heather Morris • Fiona Samuel • Paul Garnes • Bus Stop Films • Mike Jonathan

• Umbrella Entertainment • Madman Entertainment • Vendetta Films

• Able

• Miriama Grace-Smith • Hot Candle Wave - Producers • Ruth Underwood • Sophie Henderson • Curtis Vowell • Fran Borgia