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Hero image for The Makutu on Mrs Jones

The Makutu on Mrs Jones

Short Film (Full Length) – 1983

E
Exempt

A culture clash story by Witi Ihimaera inspired this comic drama, which marked the directing debut of screen veteran Larry Parr. Set in the mist-shrouded Taranaki hamlet of Whangamomona in the 1940s, the short film focuses on the conflict between a local tohunga, Mr Hohepa (Sonny Waru) and feisty Pākehā Mrs Jones (Annie Whittle) — as viewed by the young boy who helps deliver her mail and groceries (Julian Arahanga, in his screen debut). The locals think Hohepa has placed a makutu (or curse) on Mrs Jones. But could more basic human emotions be at work?

It made me laugh. It had good detail and it was whimsical.
– Witi Ihimaera on the screen version of his short story

Key Cast & Crew

Profile image for Annie Whittle

Annie Whittle

As: Mrs Jones

Profile image for Julian Arahanga

Julian Arahanga

As: Tawhai

Profile image for Larry Parr

Larry Parr

Director, Writer, Producer

Generic Profile image for Steven Parr

Steven Parr

As: Winti

Generic Profile image for Robert Austin

Robert Austin

As: Winti's Friend

Generic Profile image for Ronnie King

Ronnie King

As: Tawhai's friend

See all 30 credits

Produced by

Mirage Films

Acknowledgements

Made with the assistance of the Broadcasting Corporation of New Zealand 

Music

Soundtrack by Taura Eruera.

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