See extraordinary films by the filmmakers influencing the state of contemporary cinema. Whether tackling important subjects or pushing boundaries of the craft, these films all display the hallmarks of pioneering artistry.
Films — by Strand
Spotlight
Bergman Island
A filmmaking couple navigate love, recognition and Ingmar Bergman in Mia Hansen-Løve's triple-layered Cannes darling, a serene and self-reflective ode to film and storytelling.
The Bitter Tears of Petra von Kant
Die bitteren Tränen der Petra von Kant
This very special screening is presented to celebrate 50 years of the film festival in Wellington.
The Eyes of Tammy Faye
Jessica Chastain shines in this biopic centred on the trials, tribulations and televangelical legacy of the larger-than-life Tammy Faye Bakker.
Flee
A thrilling tale of resilience, Sundance Grand Jury Prize-winner Flee is just as interested in the quiet toll trauma takes on survivors as it is the extraordinary acts that ensured their survival.
The French Dispatch
Wes Anderson brings his signature style to this delightful comedic anthology, paying homage to French New Wave and The New Yorker’s golden age journalists of the 50s and 60s.
Happening
L’événement
Winner of the Golden Lion for Best Film at the 2021 Venice International Film Festival, Happening is a powerful and timely abortion drama, executed precisely by director Audrey Diwan.
One Second
Yi miao zhong
One of China’s premier filmmakers delivers his love letter to cinema, set during the Cultural Revolution of his youth. Warm, funny and (despite rumoured political censorship) surprisingly sharp-edged.
Paris, 13th District
Les Olympiades
Jacques Audiard’s charming exploration of the tangled work and love lives of three young Parisians is a beautifully-crafted love letter to the classics of French New Wave.
Titane
“Titane is coming, and it’s coming to fuck you up." — Jessica Kiang, The Playlist
Undine
This captivating tale of fated lovers, drawing on myth and fantasy, is also a love song to Berlin.
Zola
“Y'all wanna hear a story about why me & this bitch here fell out???????? It's kind of long but full of suspense.” — @_zolarmoon