Nine groundbreaking female Māori film-makers come together to tell the tragic tale of a young boy who died at the hands of his caregiver.

Consisting of eight 10 minute short films seamlessly strung together, we are transported into the lives of 8 different Māori women on the morning of Waru’s funeral; a local boy who has died as a result of neglect. The death haunts the streets of his small New Zealand hometown, and through each women’s story we see how heavily it has impacted each corner of the community. Overcome with feelings of grief, guilt, and courage, in their own separate worlds they look to uncover their own place in the tragedy and move forward to protect that which is vulnerable.

With each film shot in a single take and featuring a different female lead and director, Waru is a remarkable example of the power of co-operative film-making that offers a unique and authentic look at the contemporary Māori community. Through innovative, impassioned storytelling and a vital exploration of culture, custom, and shame, this is a film that is likely to start conversations and challenge perceptions everywhere.

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