Breaking Barriers

John O'Shea was godfather to generations of Kiwi filmmakers; he was an inspirational force committed to bringing new perspectives to the screen. As Ngati actor Wi Kuki Kaa put it, "had he been a Māori, he would have been a kaumatua years ago". This documentary backgrounds O'Shea and his pioneering indie production company Pacific Films, ranging from his efforts to put Māori on screen, to banned 60s ads. The cast provides proof positive of O'Shea's influence — amongst the ex-Pacific staff interviewed are the late Barry Barclay, Tony Williams and Gaylene Preston.

John was never a rip-off merchant. I don't know anyone who's made less money out of films than John. It never went in his pocket - it always went on the screen.

– Tony Williams, on John O'Shea

Key Cast & Crew

John O'Shea

Subject

Wi Kuki Kaa

Subject

Bryan Bruce

Director, Producer

Dave Tingey

Sound

Caterina De Nave

Executive Producer

Mike Fuller

Camera