From peacekeeping to filmmaking - Wellington Director joins forces with Dame Kate Harcourt in Pacific Dreams

Wellington filmmaker David Strong, a former New Zealand Army Officer who served in the war zones of Lebanon, Sarajevo and East Timor, is shooting his first short film Pacific Dreams.

Filmed in Wellington, Pacific Dreams follows an elderly woman named Grace, played by acclaimed Kiwi actress Dame Kate Harcourt. Grace’s move to Pacific Dreams rest home forces her into a world of rigid order, regulations and soulessness. Her rebellious self-determination and dignified manner has an unexpected impact on residents and staff.

The film will challenge the audience to reflect on their own lives and the impressions they want to leave on the world.

Dame Harcourt leads a cast of seasoned actors, including Don Landridge and Tina Cleary, with Turei Reedy and Corrie Brink in supporting roles.  Pacific Dreams is produced by Catherine Juniot of Inspire Films, who also has three features in development.

Storytelling was with David throughout his service in the New Zealand Army, although it wasn’t until his third tour to Bosnia that he began to write.  Then in 2006, as Military Advisor on the feature film The Waterhorse, he realised that he could tell his stories through film.

The Pacific Dreams crew showcases some of New Zealand’s finest production talent including Director of Photography Waka Attewell and Editor Paul Sutorius.

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Background Information

David began his career in the New Zealand Army as a combat armoured reconnaissance officer. He served operationally in the Middle East, Sarajevo, Bosnia and East Timor, and was twice awarded the United Nations Commendation for Service to Peace, before retiring as a Lieutenant Colonel in 2006.

David’s other film credits include Military Advisor, The Water Horse, and a Director on the 48 Hour filmmaking contest.

David is currently writing a feature political thriller screenplay, The Pilgrim, which is in development by Inspire Films and Morepork Films. He is also writing another feature, The Child Alone, set in New Zealand and Poland during World War Two