‘Ka Whawhai Tonu’ Selected for TIFF’s Centerpiece

Ka Whawhai Tonu – Struggle Without End has been selected to screen in the Centerpiece programme at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), marking the film’s North American premiere. DEGANZ members Te Rurehe Paki and Martin Brinkler, ACE edited the film, which was written by Tim Worrall (DEGANZ).

The Centerpiece programme honours and celebrates cinematic achievements by curating compelling stories from global perspectives. The programme reflects TIFF’s commitment to providing an elevated platform for international cinema, acclaimed titles from festivals around the world, highly anticipated premieres from international talents, and the latest work of influential filmmaking luminaries.

TIFF programmer Jason Ryle shares,

Visually spectacular and told from an staunchly Māori perspective, Ka Whawhai Tonu features stunning debut lead performances from its two young stars and appearances from Māori screen legends Morrison and Cliff Curtis. With a cast and crew composed of many descendants of the actual battle of Ōrākau, director Jonathan and writer Tim Worrall draw a direct and potent connection between the legacy of the strength of one’s ancestors and the power that’s inherent in cultural perseverance.

It’s great to see this impactful film reach an international audience.

Last updated on 14 August 2024