Loading Docs 2022 - E Blacks

In 2022, Esports — the "electronic sports" of competitive video gaming — were included at the Commonwealth Games for the first time; and New Zealand's national team qualified. In this short Loading Docs documentary, writer/director Ashley Pitman follows New Zealand's own E Blacks to England to compete on the world stage, playing Defence of the Ancients 2 (Dota 2). Profiling team leader Sam 'Fury' Johnson, the interviews and behind the scenes footage reveal the intelligence, obsession and sacrifice needed to play video games competitively, and the impact this has on Sam's life and relationships.    

Dota is like a mix of footabll and chess. So you've got the teamwork of football, you've got the strategy of chess.

– E Blacks team leader Sam 'Fury' Johnson

Key Cast & Crew

Ashley Pitman

Director, Writer

Joss Hardman

Colorist, Online Editor

Oliver Dawe

Editor

Hamish Boyle

Dota 2 Animation

Steve Allanson

Cinematographer

Jo Walker

Sound Mix