Wizard - The Magical Realist

In this hour-long 2010 documentary, the Wizard of New Zealand discusses everything from telephone boxes and rain dances, to taking on authority in Christchurch's Cathedral Square. The Wizard has regularly preached in the Square for more than 40 years, entertaining visitors with his madcap theories about the world, the universe and feminism. Others in his mystical orbit are interviewed, including his wife Alice, and an art gallery director who attempted to smuggle him into Australia as a living work of art. The Wizard, aka Ian Brackenbury Channell, was awarded a Queen's Service Medal for his service to the community in 2009.

I like art and music and I don't like the truth because the truth is bloody boring! So, let's live in a world of fantasy — and we know it's bullshit but you must always choose the best bullshit.

– The Wizard of New Zealand preaches from atop his ladder

Key Cast & Crew

Brian High

Cinematographer, Sound Recordist

Chris Jones

Graphics, Editor, Post-Production, Producer, Director

Jesse Jones

Interviewer, Narrator

Beth Tredray

Sound Mix

Guy Hobson

Composer