The Best Dang Christchurch 48 Hours Films of All Time…
The Best Christchurch 48 Hours films of All Time (OK, since 2007...), in my opinion
This was my fun holiday project...
So many great Christchurch 48 Hours films. I've been involved, and attended the Final, since 2007, and been in awe of lots of films. But there are some that I rate higher than others. I've listed them here, in order, for what it’s worth, along with my most consistent teams (not in order).
It’s been fun revisiting these, and other films. They’re all in the Screening Room, for your viewing pleasure.
Anyone else have a list?
Also see Andrew Todd's 'Ten Memorable V48 Hours Films From Christchurch'.
1. Carboys and the Indian by The Outwits: 2007, Western
For me this is the gold standard Christchurch film. It's very funny, very clever, and very well shot. It's also a great story with a top script and top performances.
It was runner-up nationally, and deserved that. The Outwits have been very consistent over the years, but, in my view, haven't topped this one.
2. New Fish by TBALC: 2009, Musical
Christchurch's other national runner-up film, and easily Christchurch's best ever musical, New Fish continues to blow me away with its energy and completeness. The characters are believable and the set, effects, acting, and story work together to create the perfect platform for the songs. New Fish is the energiser bunny of musicals - the great songs just keep on coming, one after another, in quick succession, and remain with you long after the film finishes.
3. Binary Justice by Gorilla Team Gorilla: 2008, Science Fiction
Another top Christchurch team over a number of years, Gorilla Team Gorilla showed a natural comedy bent with this film. The story isn't huge, but the laughs are in the little things here: the unbounded enthusiasm, nuanced reactions and exaggerated responses of the leads.
I LOLed, and I continue to LOL.
4. Frequencies by Zebra Crossing Inc: 2009, Real Time
This is a 48 Hours film that could genuinely stand up outside the competition. It's clever, beautifully shot, and convincing, but it's also engaging and affecting. The location is perfect and the lead performance is compelling.
Frequencies was unlucky to have been made in the same year as New Fish. It would have been an easy winner most other years.
5. Death in the West by Gorilla Team Gorilla: 2010, Sexual Education
Death in the West is a solid story with a twist ending. Clever. But what sets this apart is the technical elements - it's beautifully shot and edited, and the setting and costumes are perfect.
6. Time-A-Saurus by The Otter: 2010, Time Travel
Probably my favourite of all. I've watched this an unnatural number of times. Hilarious, inspired, madcap - Time-A-Saurus is a rare treat. The Otter are always good, and always in the same style, but this one hit every nail on its head and none of them said "Ow".
7. Is Love Enough? by The Eh Team: 2013, Obsessive Relationship
This is a well conceived and brilliantly executed film. Solid all around.
8. El Padre by Zzzzzzz: 2010, Road Movie
This moved me in ways most 48 Hours films don't. The script is a beaut, and the subject matter (the Pinochet years in Chile) and the theme (forgiveness) don't come up often. Nicely played.
9. Supernova by Oldschool Cinema: 2012, End of the World Movie
Supernova grows on me each time I watch it. It’s smart and believable and uses the Australian landscape perfectly.
10. Mr Breadins by The Otter: 2011, One Room Movie
Time for another Otter movie? Always. Simon Nunn is one of the great character actors of our time.
Just missed out:
Duty of Care by Cat House Films: 2013, Obsessive Relationship
Photobooth by The Gentlemen's Agreement: 2013, Immobilised
Nicky + Eve 19/5 by TBALC: 2012, One-shot
Grindin' by The Outwits: 2011, Dance
Most consistent teams:
Gorilla Team Gorilla
The Otter
The Outwits
TBALC
Zebra Crossing Inc.
48 Hours Lockdown 2020: b.com: Lucy is Dead
48 Hours 2017: Margaret Candy's BBQ Tongs: Clock: The Second Hand ULTRA
48 Hours 2016: static.comb.hummingbird: Where Are They Now?
48 Hours 2015: Hummingbird: The Stamp
48 Hours 2014: Hummingbird: Furious Filmmaking
48 Hours 2013: Hummingbird: Clock
48 Hours 2012: the whole damn universe: Honeymoon
48 Hours 2011: The Brainy Corporation: Kinky, Minx, and Cowboys
48 Hours 2010: The Brainy Corporation: The House on Vengeance Street
48 Hours 2009: The Brainy Corporation: The Jingle: Late!
48 Hours 2008: Humans from Earth: Lifting the Cape
48 Hours 2007: Visualeyes: Mondo Christchurch Chch Runner Up: Chch Best Script
