Curtis’ ‘Rapido’ Wins at imagineNATIVE
Congratulations to Ricard J Curtis (DEGANZ) for winning the Live Action Short Award with Rapido at the 2025 imaginNATIVE Film + Media Arts Festival! This is an Oscar-qualifying category, meaning the film is now eligible for consideration for the Academy Awards in the Best Live Action Short Film category.
Rapido follows a young Māori boy whose fascination with war comics comes closer to home than he could ever imagine when he discovers his estranged grandfather was a World War II veteran.
In Ngā Aho Whakaari’s media release, producer Lea McLean comments on the film saying,
Rapido explores intergenerational trauma, inspired by Richard’s childhood and his uncle’s untold struggle with ‘Shell-Shock’. This story honours the sacrifices of Māori soldiers and highlights the enduring impact of PTSD on their whānau at home.
The short was made through Ngā Aho Whakaari’s short film development programme, Aho Shorts, in 2024.
It’s great to see local indigenous films recognised on the global stage!
Last updated on 26 June 2025
