Synopsis
Inspired by true events: forbidden love, bitter revenge.
It's 1960 in the farming heartland of New Zealand. Late summer bakes the hills brown while dirt roads cut through long-standing farms to reach the old homesteads. Vast tracks of inherited wealth, conservatism and honour meet undercurrents of retribution and ambition.
This is a place held together by allegiances and fractured by isolation and hidden desires. Where lineage and respect buy wealth and power. Where secrets remain hidden and prejudice runs deep.
When there’s everything to lose, there’s nothing to hold back on and everything to fight for.
A few want power to control. Two need freedom to love.
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Kieran Foster as Billy Williams
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Luke Thompson as Tom Henshaw
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Vanessa Riddell as Eva Henshaw
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Pete Hansen as Danny Birch
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Brighde Riddell as Tess Henshaw
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Sarah James as Ruth Henshaw
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Liam Fennell as Eddie Henshaw
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Peter Ford as Frank Henshaw
West of Eden trailer
Ratings and reviews
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I went to see this film last night with no knowledge of it at all, just a feeling that it could be good, mostly based on the film's poster and my gut intuition (more often right than not). How right I was!
An outstanding film in all respects; a knotty festering drama full of portentous events unfolding spookily like a New Zealand bush waterfall.
Gripping and engaging, an excellent script with well-developed characters who you cared about or desperately wanted to throttle.
I liked the way it was art-directed, directed and acted: it didn't suffer the inevitable 'made in New Zealand' syndrome that affects so much New Zealand cinema to the point of disappointing cliché.
I also liked the way the period cars were chosen and featured in the film. Cars often grate with an irrelevant context or are 'too shiny' given the script. Congratulations to all involved.
Ps. the music score was excellent - sensitively supporting and integrated into the core of the film. Great title too. Giant and East of Eden are, of course, embedded in our consciousness, but West of Eden is a completely original film - it shines.
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Saw West of Eden at the New Zealand premiere – WOW. A beautiful-looking film; beautiful story; beautifully acted and directed. (Flicks.co.NZ)
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West of Eden is visually beautiful with an authentic 1960’s look and stunning NZ country scenery. The plot follows a family torn between loyalty and love and uncovers issues that were potentially scandalous at the time.
The casting is superb with some excellent NZ acting talent. (Flicks.co.NZ)
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Impressive acting, costumes, music, make-up, sets, cinematography all add to the realism of this film – parochial 1960’s NZ wasn’t all good!
(Flicks.co.NZ) -
Really, really happy to see West of Eden. First New Zealand movie I have seen this year, and man it sets the bar high!
A good old fashioned slow burn romance, with some hot guys in the main roles - haven't seen either of them on screen before, but happy I have now!
Gotta say - the baddie in the film was NASTY. I just hope he is not that effortlessly evil in real life and is just a great actor.
Quite a few twists and turns in the story and country folk are definitely keepin' it racy.
Loved the look of the film - early 60s - when everyone dressed amazingly and looked divine and dapper... bring back the hats I say!
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Not being around in the 1950s in New Zealand, I thought the film was quite an eye-opener.The cast is fairly young - it’s so great to see young talent coming through the ranks. Plenty of eye candy for the ladies 😛I really enjoyed the film, the cinematography was fantastic and it really showcases the New Zealand countryside. (IMDB)
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Loved the premiere!
A great storyline that involves a strong cast. Beautiful cinematography showcasing New Zealand’s stunning scenery.
(Flicks.co.NZ) -
This film is so good. It left the audience stunned at the showing I attended. The characters are great and they entwine through this beautiful love story.
Definitely deserves a big audience.(Flicks.co.NZ)
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Egah, splendor in the toitois! Looks like a same-sex Speights commercial!
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What a film!
I was lucky enough to go to the West of Eden premiere night, and I can honestly say that this film does not disappoint! The cinematography was incredible from start to finish and the costumes were beautiful.
I was not around in the 60s, however, I feel the film portrayed the different situations people had to deal with back then very well. The acting itself is a reason you should go and see this film. Every character has a story for you to get trapped in, leaving you emotional and wanting to know how their stories would end right from the beginning.
Billy is such an amazing character to watch throughout the film and you can't help but fall in love with him as the film progresses. His story is a very raw and emotional one and the actor who plays Billy, definitely does the character justice. This is a very proud moment for New Zealand independent films.
(IMDB) 13 March 2017
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A beautiful film.
I loved the costumes and characters.
Great storyline that keeps you hooked.
Alastair Riddell - your music is brilliant.(Flicks.co.NZ)
Read critique by Shaun Brinstone (Critic Te Arohi)
Interviews
Rialto Channel, Sky TV New Zealand
Filmmakers Alastair and Vanessa Riddell discuss the depths of West of Eden and the journey of its creation
Postcards
To thank all of our generous vehicle sponsors, we gifted a series of postcards showcasing their glorious vintage cars.
Watch West of Eden
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Rent or buy worldwide on Vimeo
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Rent or buy in the UK and US on Amazon Prime
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