Writer/director Hamish Bennett's award-winning short film was inspired by childhood neighbours in the Northland town of Tauraroa. Ross & Beth focusses on an ageing couple running a dairy farm, and the stark difference in communication styles between them. While Beth (Annie Whittle) chats happily and is involved with her community, taciturn Ross (John Clarke, who won a Moa Award for his work) relies heavily on his wife's warmth. One day Ross's life changes forever and he must learn how to connect with other people. Bennett developed the story of Ross and Beth in his 2019 feature Bellbird, with Whittle repeating her role.