Leon Narby Photo: supplied
The Director of Photography on the new film Whina, Leon Narbey, actually filmed the 1975 land march that the cast and crew were recreating for the movie about the Māori matriarch who led it.
Leon was able to tap into both the documentary he worked on and his own memories of spending time with the protesters, to add authenticity to the film.
Dame Whina Cooper campaigned tirelessly on behalf of her people and he was delighted to be able to revisit her story through being part of the Whina team.
Leon's previous films include Whale Rider, The Orator, No. 2, Dean Spanley, and Illustrious Energy, which he directed in 1987.
Fun fact : When he's not filming he's making award winning olive oil!
He talks to Lynn Freeman about his feelings when he was invited to be DOP on Whina:
Whina, starring Rena Owen and Miriama McDowell, goes into general release around the country on June 23.
