DEGANZ Members Amongst the 2025 Day One Shorts

Day One has announced the eight commissioned teams for this year’s round of short films, including two projects featuring DEGANZ members Giselle Ilaoa, Lee Li, and Tyler Redmond.

The competition was tough this year, with 109 applications narrowed down to a short list of 16 before the final projects were selected.

Day One Shorts is a series of short films by rangatahi emerging filmmakers from across the motu. They explore cultural, social and political issues by taking story risks, pushing the envelope, and looking to the future. Supported by NZ On Air, RNZ, and Wakaata Māori, the initiative provides scripted projects with $20k and documentaries with $15k to produce their films. In addition to funding, Day One offers the filmmakers wrap-around talent development support, including workshops, professional script consultancy, and mentorships for the directors and producers.

Congratulations to all the selected teams! Check out the projects from DEGANZ members below.

Aolfa Mai, Alofa Atu

Scripted Drama

Writer/Director: Giselle Ilaoa

A young woman grapples with her repressed sexuality when she reconnects with her childhood friend and must navigate her growing affections.

Fearlessli

Documentary

Writer/Director: Lee Li

Producer: Tyler Redmond

Amidst the uncertainty of her future as a transgender asylum seeker, Lee Li navigates unseen struggles and relentlessly advocates for her community, fighting for a future where others like her can call Aotearoa home.

Last updated on 13 February 2025