Engari - MFA Short Film

Engari is a short film being made as a part of the MFA (CP) in Film at Te Herenga Waka - Victoria University of Wellington. This film is one of the capstone projects for the Masters course.
 

Ashley wrote the story about their dad and the small rural community he grew up in. Ashley remembers all the times they drove past Hatupatu's rock in Ātiamuri, their dad's hometown, and was warned of the birdwoman coming to seek revenge. 
 

In Engari, the main characters are inspired by Ashley's dad and uncle, mischievous kids looking to make some money by scamming tourists at their local cave, owned by the birdwoman. One day, they choose to take the tourists inside the cave, knowing that it’s not allowed. Though they earn more money, the birdwoman is enraged and goes to thwart revenge. Just as she approaches to attack, she shares a quiet moment with the younger boy, and realises how similar he is to the cheeky pīwakawaka she adores. They decide to make a pact and help one another to scam more tourists.