43,000 Feet
Director: Campbell Hooper
What: With several minutes before he hits the ground, a falling man reflects on his past and his immediate future.
Donaldson says: "Great photography. Very original framing and concept."
Ellen Is Leaving
Director: Michelle Savill
What: Ellen is cool. She is recycling stuff before she heads overseas.
Donaldson says: "I love how original it feels. The details of the travel pack put a real smile on my face."
Home
Director: Thomas Gleeson
What: We watch a house take a road trip.
Donaldson says: "A beautifully photographed minimalist documentary."
Lambs
Director: Sam Kelly
What: Jimmy deals drugs at school and is beaten by his mum's boyfriend. Now he must decide between self-preservation and self-sacrifice.
Donaldson says: "Really captures a tough uncompromising world in a very compelling way. I loved the central character's heroism. It reminded me of Once Were Warriors, in the best possible way."
Milk & Honey
Director: Marina Alofagia McCartney
What: This brief drama recalls the notorious dawn raids on Pasifika families.
Donaldson says: "I lived in Ponsonby in the 70s and remember the events portrayed in this film. Very poignant."
Night Shift
Director: Zia Mandviwalla
What: An airport cleaner has reason to keep to herself.
Donaldson says: "I love this story - it feels so real and packs a real wallop."
* New Zealand International Film Festival, Auckland (July 19-August 5) and Wellington (July 27-August 12). Festival programmes will be available online at nzff.co.nz and around town from June 26 in Auckland
-TimeOut