Notes From A Fish — The Quirky Kiwi Film Making Waves

There’s something about a film that feels unmistakably local. Not just in where it’s shot, but in its tone, its humour, and the way it captures the rhythm of a place. Notes From A Fish does exactly that, leaning into a surreal kind of comedy that feels both offbeat and instantly familiar.

This is not a polished, by-the-numbers production. It’s a film that knows what it is and runs with it. Strange in places, sharp in others, and always grounded in a distinctly Auckland flavour that gives it real personality.

Notes From A Fish has been gaining attention across the local circuit, including its place in the New Zealand International Film Festival and a growing online presence that reflects the film’s tone and energy

What makes this project stand out is how it was made. Shot in just 10 days on a modest budget, it’s a reminder that strong ideas and committed people still carry weight in the industry. RNZ captured that story well, detailing how the film became a sleeper hit

At the centre of it all is a cast that brings the film to life with a grounded, natural energy. Collaborate is proud to have several of its actors featured in the film, including Ma’aola Faasavala, Alice Pearce, Delilah Gow, Benny Joy Smith, Ritchell Maxwell and Cher Hoosen.

Each performance adds to the film’s offbeat charm. There’s a looseness to the storytelling that allows the actors to create moments that feel real, even when the narrative leans into the surreal. It’s a balance that’s not easy to get right, but when it works, it sticks.

You can get a feel for the film through its  trailer here and further details about the production and cast through NZ On Screen and IMDb.

There’s also growing interest from audiences and critics alike, with platforms like Flicks.co.nz highlighting its unique voice within the local film landscape.

For Auckland audiences, the experience is close to home in more ways than one. The film is screening across a number of local cinemas, including Academy Cinemas, The Vic and Takapuna Movies, as well as The Hollywood in Avondale and Bridgeway Theatres.

That accessibility matters. It gives people the chance to see local work on the big screen, to support it, and to be part of the conversation around it.

At Collaborate, this is exactly the kind of project we value being part of. Work that feels original. Work that backs its ideas. And work that gives talent the space to show what they can do.

Notes From A Fish is a reminder that great storytelling doesn’t always come from scale. Sometimes it comes from a clear point of view, a strong group of collaborators, and the confidence to do something a little different.

And when that lands, people notice.