Classic 80s Film Trilogy Released On NZ On Screen

We're extremely proud to present the classic 80s film trilogy - Kingi's Story, Kingpin, and the award-winning Mark II - in full-length on NZ On Screen. We've received many viewer requests asking about their availability and are delighted to have secured the support of actor and writer Mitchell Manuel to showcase the films.

These stories of Māori and Polynesian youth hold up remarkably well, and present an honest, kinetic and confronting take on growing up young, brown and on the wrong side of the tracks in 80s NZ.

The films were arguably neglected at the time of their release, and this is an exclusive chance to view important landmarks of Aotearoa screen history, from the bros-in-borstal sagas of Kingi's Story and Kingpin to road movie Mark II (described as a "Polynesian Easy Rider").

"Mike Walker's telemovie is no Polynesian Goodbye Pork Pie. Pork Pie was a fantasy trip. This is the rollicking real thing ..." John Paga, Auckland Star, 06 November 1986

The stories evolved from a unique collaboration between filmmaker Mike Walker and a group of young inmates in a Levin correctional facility, Kohitere Boys' Training Centre, in the 70s and 80s. Particularly significant was his mentor relationship with actor-writer Mitchell Manuel, who starred in all three films and co-wrote Kingpin and Mark II.

As Manuel reflects in his written background pieces for these titles:

"Michael Walker's vision was to bring his passion to the screen but with a Polynesian flavour. Michael was sincerely interested in Polynesian life and Māori stories, and I think he saw uniqueness in the stories which I'm sure he hoped would enlighten others."

These films - streetwise, unpretentious - are stirring testament to Walker's conviction. They screened from Manukau to Moscow and won top gongs at NZ Film and TV Awards. All are generously able to be embedded. Enjoy!

Tonight on NZ On Screen

Check out the first five of six online promos we launched this month the first five of six online promos we launched this month. Actor Tammy Davis (aka Munter from Outrageous Fortune) travels through the years to present classic scenes from the NZ On Screen collection. From Hokianga, 1956, to meet Opo the Gay Dolphin; to Christchurch, 1980, to get On the Mat with Billy T; to Bodgiemania with Howie and Kiri, Rotorua, 1966; to channeling Andrew Fagan circa 1984 when radio came with pictures.

Directed by the time-warping wizards at Sticky Pictures . All the promos are embeddable so be like Marmite and spread the goodness - use the share tools to the right of the player.

NZ On Screen is fully funded by NZ On Air. All content is free to view.

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