Loading Docs 2016 - Mister Sunshine

Web (Full Length) – 2016

"My name is Mr Larry Woods and they call me Mr Sunshine." This 2016 Loading Doc offers a mini portrait of the colourful shoeshine man famous for spreading goodwill and cheer on Auckland’s streets. The documentary charts Wood’s journey from chauffeur-driven millionaire making headlines for his lush lifestyle, to street-working ambassador pushing the creed of “just being nice”. Directed by Eldon Booth in stylish monochrome, the documentary was shared by Atlantic and Aeon magazines and website Short of the Week, and screened at England's Sheffield Doc/Fest.

Witnessing Larry wrestle with past decisions and strive to fulfil his creed of goodwill is a reminder that change isn’t always easy and that every act of behaviour has the capacity to impact or alter the lives of others, even strangers. In making this short documentary, we also hope our audience considers their own attitudes and behaviour – what is the creed that you live by?
– Director Eldon Booth