Local ‘Anti-Terror’ Raids Documentary Opens Nationwide

CutCutCut Films
For immediate release:

16 May 2011

Local ‘Anti-Terror’ Raids Documentary Opens In Cinemas Nationwide.

While the court case of the 'Urewera 18' is dogged with delays the same cannot be said for the film. The feature length documentary Operation 8 premiered last month to a sell out audience in Wellington as part of the World Cinema Showcase and has fast become the most popular film in the festival which has screened in Auckland, Wellington and Dunedin.

The locally made, independent documentary is now opening in cinemas around the country throughout May and June, and the filmmakers are encouraging people to contact their local cinema to exhibit the film. Screenings have been organised in Christchurch at the request of Cantabrians starting this week.

The film has received positive reviews from critics and generated debate on TV, radio and in print.

"An impassioned, balanced, entertaining and hugely important film” (five stars) - Graeme Tuckett, The Dominion Post

"Compelling, humane, intelligent... This is a film that every New Zealander ought to see" - David Larsen, NZ Listener

"The single most important New Zealand film in decades" - Crop Magazine

Operation 8 was shot over three and half years and includes first-hand accounts from some of those raided on October 15, 2007. The film investigates how and why the raids took place, featuring interviews with academics and professionals well-versed in the case. This is the third feature documentary from independent filmmakers Errol Wright and Abi King-Jones of CutCutCut Films.

Three and a half years after the raids took place, 15 of the 18 defendants are facing a judge-alone trial that was scheduled to begin May 30. The Supreme Court recently granted leave for an appeal against the judge-alone decision, while it also considers the admissibility of police evidence. A formal request has been lodged with the Solicitor General to stay the proceedings.

Details of confirmed screenings can be found at www.cutcutcut.com

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