THE CRITICALLY ACCLAIMED first feature of New Zealand filmmakers Andrea Bosshard and Shane Loader, Taking the Waewae Express  is an ensemble, character-based piece, developed using the improvisational processes of British director Mike Leigh. Contemporary, cosmopolitan and multi-lingual, the story addresses: youth’s love affair with cars;  accidental death; family expectations and generational conflict. 

 

"I've driven drunk before, I've driven stoned, too fast, spun out heaps of times."
"Yeah, but you never killed anyone."

When Wiremu's younger brother dies in a car accident, blame and bitterness take their toll, and love and loyalty are tested within his circle of friends and family. Nevertheless life goes on. It is still possible to fall in love, to laugh again, to play soccer and to sing. But it takes courage to move on and unless you take the first step, you can’t take the next.
 

Cast: Matariki Whatarau, Rangimoana Taylor, Evan Hussey, Isaac Heron, Tamati Pere,

Jess Aalton, Susanne Svanberg, Chong Sin Lim, Jacob Renwick-Faauga
Directed by: Andrea Bosshard &Shane Loader
Screenplay: Andrea Bosshard
Cinematography: Deane Cronin
Editor: Shane Loader
Music: Janet Roddick, David Donaldson, Steve Roche