The Pawnshop

Step into a world of eclectic treasures, quirky characters, and unexpected encounters at Poland’s most fascinating pawn shop.

In Europe’s biggest pawnshop, Jola and Wiesiek offer a surreal and humorous glimpse into their world, where conflicts and caring moments collide. From second-hand toasters to sausage and a pat on the back, this darkly funny docu-comedy showcases the proprietors’ low-level conflicts and snap judgments. Facing bankruptcy, they come up with a fresh idea to save their surreal Wunderkammer of a shop, bringing new hope to the once-bustling industrial town. This festival favourite delivers humour, charm, and humanity in spades.

Nz Short Films

Session One

The Capitol Fri 26 May 4pm

The Roxy Fri 9 June 4pm

Big Kids

Tom Field / 2023 / 11min / NZ

OHMS! Protest! A Celebration of Resistance

Anna Cottrell / 2023 / 30min / NZ

Daniel Mulholland, a master-builder uses LEGO to reshape his life after being diagnosed with PTSD. The film highlights the relationship between mental health and a simple act of kindness, showing how something as small as a plastic brick can be life-changing for oneself and others.

Strange Beasts

Darcy Prendergast / 2022 / 10min / NZ, Australia

The film highlights the New Zealand student-led movement against compulsory military training during the Vietnam War. Led by 19-year-old Robert Reid, it brought together activists and diverse communities in a historic protest. Featuring interviews with those involved it is a reminder of the power of activism and ordinary people standing up for what they believe in.

Visiting Ben Shemen

Miriam Harris / 2023 / 16min / NZ

The film explores the rise and fall of Australia’s Bacchus Marsh Lion Safari, through the eyes of big cat keeper Ron Prendergast. It uncovers the park’s mysterious history and folklore, from its boom to its closure, revealing the consequences of unchecked power. A captivating exploration of human nature, ambition, and the human desire to control nature.

In this innovative animated film, director Harris tells her mother’s story and that of two other Jewish women who first met in 1946 at the Ben Shemen School in Israel, exploring their personal histories of love, loss, and survival through intimate interviews and mixed media techniques, resulting in a powerful and moving portrait of three women.

Session Two

Demons

Daniel Ali, Mark Robertson / 2022 / 13min / NZ, UK

The Capitol Fri 2 June 4pm

The Roxy Fri 16 June 4pm

Last Shot at Messenger

Ethan Alderson-Hughes / 2023 / 18min / NZ

Ben Dean turns to the dark side in his struggle with alcohol addiction, becoming an inspiration to others on their own paths to sobriety and spiritualism.

Moving the Market

Harry Knight / 2023 / 15min / NZ, UK

Cattle farmer Tony Pascoe goes on a mission to protect an ancient wetland and forest from Taranaki’s largest roading project. Featuring conversations with land occupiers, iwi/hapu representatives, it highlights the power of community and the importance of protecting natural heritage, even in the face of adversity.

No Acting in It

Roberto Nascimento / 2023 / 12min / NZ

Darren, manager of Bristol’s Vintage Market, is struggling to find a new home for traders as his lease ends. It highlights the community’s reliance on the market and showcases its unique side beyond the items on display. This is a reminder of the power of community and the impact of small businesses on the communities they serve.

Dame Kate Harcourt, a legend in the New Zealand theatre and film community, and her actress daughter Dame Miranda explore their close bond and family legacy in acting. Intimate conversations and personal stories highlight the impact of their deep roots in the industry on three generations of women.