Sleeping Dogs

Smith (Sam Neill, in his breakthrough screen role) is devastated when his wife runs off with his best friend Bullen (Ian Mune). Smith escapes to the Coromandel. Meanwhile, the government enlists an anti-terrorist force to crack down on its opponents. Bullen, now a guerrilla, asks Smith to join the revolution. Directed by Roger Donaldson, this adaptation of CK Stead novel Smith's Dream heralded a new wave of Kiwi cinema. It was one of the only Kiwi films of the 1970s to win a big local audience. This excerpt includes a much discussed scene: a baton charge by government forces, predating the real life conflicts of the 1981 Springbok tour.

[Sleeping Dogs] almost single-handedly created a climate of acceptance within the country for a Kiwi film industry.

– Jonathan Dowling looks back at the film's impact, The Evening Post, 27 February 1988

Key Cast & Crew

Michael Seresin

Cinematographer

Donna Akersten

As: Mary

Nevan Rowe

Casting, As: Gloria

Sam Neill

As: Smith

Roger Donaldson

Director, Producer, Art Director

Ian Mune

Writer, Art Director, As: Bullen