Zippo

In the chaos following the WWII Normandy landings, a group of American soldiers push inland through enemy territory. Among them is Private Dams, who has left something behind that will alter the course of events. Christchurch filmmaker Kenta Lord's Zippo won first place in the 2025 OnScreen Student Filmmaking Competition, plus AUT-sponsored awards for Best Director, Cinematography, Visual Effects, and Styling. Judges praised its technical mastery and emotional depth. Presenter Jaquie Brown was "utterly blown away" by its "simple but emotionally captivating story," film critic Kate Rodger called it "technically flawless".

I hope you like your present, it's nothing fancy, but I do hope it comes in useful. We're proud of you always come back to us safe, son.

– Private Dams reads a letter from his parents

Key Cast & Crew

Kenta Lord

Director

Henry Mehrtens

As: Squad Leader

Jet Arabe

As: Private Parker

Sebastian Christophers

As: Captain

Jake O'Connor

As: Private Dams

Kauia Harrison

Makeup