The most promising thing about this homegrown documentary is that the full title includes the words "Volume 1". By the time Volume 2 happens - if it happens - Brettkelly may have had the chance to contemplate how much part one exploits its subject and manipulates the rest of us.
Movie review: Maori Boy Genius
NZ Herald
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Ngaa Rauuira Pumanawawhiti in Maori Boy Genius. Photo / Supplied
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But, in its boosterish approach, the film somehow sells him short; in saying he's more than he is, it patronises him - and us too.
Brettkelly's impressionistic shooting style creates some evocative moments but, like her last film The Art Star and the Sudanese Twins, it is every bit as problematic as its title implies.
* The Dominion Post reported in October that Pumanawawhiti had suspended his studies at Victoria University to promote the documentary in overseas markets.
Stars: 2.5/5
Director: Pietra Brettkelly
Running time: 85 mins
Rating: Exempt. In English and Maori with English subtitles
Verdict: Unwittingly disturbing
- TimeOut