Tropfest began twenty years ago when Director John Polson showed a six-minute film he made for under $100 at his local café (‘The Tropicana’) in Sydney for 200 friends and family. Since then Tropfest has become recognised as one of the world’s most exciting launch-pads for emerging filmmakers.

Tropfest NZ will present its first stand-alone short film festival on Sunday 27th January 2013, at the TSB Bowl of Brooklands in New Plymouth. Open to the public and free to attend, this event has been designed to encourage Kiwi filmmakers from the grassroots level up.

It’s been announced that Taika joined the Fesival as one of its official Ambassadors.

“Taika is a great example of how a short film can launch a filmmaker’s career. We are thrilled to have Taika join Tropfest New Zealand and be an inspiration to other Kiwi directors,” says Tropfest Founder and Director, John Polson.

“Short films are an incredible learning ground where aspiring filmmakers can play and make mistakes, things that are key to becoming a filmic story-teller,” says Waititi.

“To make a film you must have passion and bringing Tropfest to our country can help showcase the work that so many talented New Zealander’s are capable of,” he adds.

Entries are now being accepted. You must be a New Zealand citizen or resident to enter. Films must be no longer than seven minutes (including titles and credits) and must contain Tropfest’s Signature Item (TSI). Competition details can be found at www.tropfest.co.nz.

source: Tropfest NZ has new Boy on board