‘Home Education’ is Spinning Off!

The first three episodes of Home Education, directed by Christopher Pryor (DEGANZ), are now streaming on The Spinoff.

This engaging docu-series explores the lives of six families who have chosen to educate their children outside traditional classrooms, showcasing the diverse approaches they take to learning. From Montessori and Waldorf methods to Unschooling and mātauranga Māori, each family tailors their educational experiences to foster a genuine love of learning in their children. With over 10,000 students being homeschooled in Aotearoa, the series highlights these families’ unique journeys.

The first episode introduces Jen and her children, who run a pick-your-own dahlia farm as part of their home education. What started as a project where each child was given $100 to start a business has blossomed into a thriving venture that serves as the backdrop for their learning. Viewers also meet Rachel and her son Felix, who delves into the history of a little-known bunker in Mount Eden. By tapping into Felix’s passion for history, Rachel navigates the challenges of keeping him engaged in his education, especially after he struggled to fit in at school. Additionally, Irma shares her experience of home-educating her two boys, focusing on “de-schooling” herself and allowing her children to direct their learning, providing them with the space to explore their interests.

“Home Education” is a look into alternative schooling methods and a heartfelt exploration of how families adapt to support their children’s growth and curiosity.

Check out the first three episodes, and catch new ones every Tuesday on The Spinoff HERE.

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Nicol’s ‘Keyboard Warriors: Knights of Chalacyn’ Seeks Support

DEGANZ member Jack Nicol is seeking support on Kickstarter for his feature documentary, Keyboard Warriors: Knights of Chalacyn.

Shot over the past two years, the film dives into the vibrant world of online gaming, focusing on the passionate community that thrives within the fantastical realm of Chalacyn. Through personal stories and shared experiences, it captures the creativity, dedication, and camaraderie that define today’s gaming culture.

The team are raising funds to help get them to the next step in the creative process, a rough cut, which will help them to better package a pitch.

Check out the Kickstarter campaign HERE!

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Members Docs are Now Loading

The latest Loading Docs season has been released on the Loading Docs website. Eight short documentaries make up the collection, including films with work by DEGANZ members.

Loading Docs is a unique initiative that produces short documentaries that captivate and inspire audiences locally and internationally while developing and promoting New Zealand filmmaking talent.

Check out the list below!

The Man Outside

A young woman’s life turns into a nightmare when she realises her ex-boyfriend is stalking her. As his actions grow increasingly menacing, she turns to the Police, only to discover that Aotearoa’s legal system is unable to protect her due to the absence of anti-stalking laws. Left with no official support, she and her flatmates are thrust into a harrowing real-life thriller, where they must rely on each other to confront a threat that grows more dangerous with every passing day.

Director: Liv McClymont

Editor: Brendon Chan

Hifi Ulu

Luka is a boy full of action and adventure, distinguished by his long, uncut hair—a proud symbol of his Niuean heritage. As his tenth birthday approaches, Luka prepares for the Hifi Ulu ceremony, a rite of passage that will mark his transition into young manhood. Navigating this milestone in his own unique way, Luka’s journey is quietly mirrored by his father’s unresolved feelings, having never experienced the ceremony himself. As the day draws near, anticipation builds, leaving everyone to wonder how Luka truly feels about this pivotal moment in his life.

Director: Chantelle Burgoyne (Incubator 2018)

Editors: Rāhera Herewini-Mulligan & Janice Herewini-Mulligan

Out There

Driven by a desire to understand her place in the universe, filmmaker Alexis Smith joins a mysterious New Zealand network dedicated to making contact with extraterrestrial life. Immersed in their meditative practices under the stars, Alexis uncovers the stories of this unique group, their experiences with extraterrestrial contact, and the stigmas they face. When she encounters evidence that pushes her to the edge of belief, it’s her inner shadows that she must learn to accept.

Director: Alexis Smith

Producer: Harry Wynn

 

Congratulations everyone on the release of the documentaries! You can watch them HERE on the Loading Docs website.

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Rainbow’s ‘Grafted’ Selected for Brooklyn Horror Film Festival

Grafted, directed by Sasha Rainbow (DEGANZ) has been selected to screen at the Brooklyn Horror Film Festival. In addition to directing, Sasha co-wrote the film with Hweiling Ow (Incubator 2021), Incubator alum Mia Maramara (2021) and Lee Murray.

When a young woman undergoes a mysterious procedure to save her ailing father, she finds herself entwined in a web of dark secrets and unsettling transformations. As she grapples with her new reality, she must confront the blurred lines between self and other, leading her to a chilling revelation about the nature of sacrifice and the depths of familial bonds.

The Brooklyn Horror Film Festival is renowned for showcasing innovative works that push the boundaries of the genre. It provides a platform for filmmakers to present their compelling narratives to a wider audience. The festival emphasizes the importance of diverse storytelling in horror, highlighting films that reflect varied perspectives and experiences.

 

Congratulations everyone on the selection!

 

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‘Camp Be Better’ Streaming Now!

Camp Be Better, directed by DEGANZ member Chye-Ling Huang, is now available to watch on TVNZ+.

This energetic series follows a group of young campers as they embark on a transformative summer adventure filled with humour, friendship, and self-discovery.  In the series, viewers will see the campers tackle personal challenges, navigate chaotic dynamics, and embrace their individuality in a vibrant camp setting. Huang describes the shoot as “a whirlwind,” highlighting the fun and challenges of filming at Bella Rakha. “We used every nook and cranny possible, resulting in a wild scope for the show,” she notes.

The production features a unique leap-frog filming system, allowing seamless scene transitions thanks to the flexibility of the crew. Huang also prioritized casting young actors skilled in improvisation, fostering a collaborative environment where fresh ideas could flourish. “You can feel the fun we had while making the show,” she shares.

Watch the trailer here:

Watch Camp Be Better on TVNZ+ now; Congrats on the release Chye-Ling!

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