Sam Peacocke's Manurewahas won a Crystal Bear in the Generation 14plus Youth Section at the Berlinale. Produced by Kristian Eek, the film is based on the real life robbery and fatal shooting of Navtej Singh that took place in South Auckland.
The Generation programme receives over 6000 submissions each year and the selection comprises 32 short films and 27 feature length films from 32 countries. The jury awarded the film the prize with these comments: "In a very short time this film synthesises and skilfully compresses independent story lines and characters, merging them together into a single irrevocable, ever-changing moment. Our winning film is not only about perpetrators and victims, but also about human beings."
Manurewa was self-funded by the filmmakers and relied on the generous support of sponsors Fuji Film New Zealand, Panavision New Zealand and Park Road Post.
The film was shot on 35mm with a skeleton crew, utilizing available light as much as possible. It was shot on location in South Auckland and features mostly non-actors. The film was made with the blessing of the Sikh community and the family of the victim.
Manurewa received post-production funding from the NZ Film Commission who also supported Sam Peacocke to attend the festival.
See the full list of winners in Berlin here.