New Zealand Mirror No. 9

Short Film (Full Length) – 1951

The first chapter of this installment of the National Film Unit's 'magazine-film' series New Zealand Mirror introduces British audiences to the remarkable skills of Kiwi billiards champion Clark McConachy. McConachy was renowned for his break feats and in 1952 was a finalist in the World Snooker Championship. He calmy demonstrates 'cannons', eight-shots and trick shots. The second story wonders if "moa-hunters" were responsible for ancient rock drawings in North Canterbury limestone caves and the final report covers the annual Auckland regatta, celebrating New Zealanders' love of mucking about in boats.

At the moment he's doing some "nursery cannons" but you're well out of the nusery when you get to this stage...
– The narrator marvels at billiards champion Clark McConachy's silky skills