We may not have been able to get to cinemas in real life a lot this past year, but good films have helped get a lot of us through the year. From nostalgic classics to indie hits and Marvel blockbusters, we’re delighted to bring to you the ultimate list of excellent films from some local fashion designers with very good taste.
Ida on Apple TV
Recommended by Gosia Patek, founder of Kowtow
I loved this Polish film directed by Pawel Pawlikowski. I am Polish so it's a pleasure to watch something in my mother tongue (also subtitled). Every image in this film could be framed, it's so beautifully shot and artistic.
Long Shot on Netflix
Recommended by Anjali Burnett, co-founder of Twenty-seven Names
This short documentary tells the story of Los Angeles man Juan Catalan. I don't want to give anything away, but it gives us all another reason to be thankful for Curb Your Enthusiasm. My eyes were sweating pretty hard during the epilogue.
Goodfellas on Neon; Casino on Apple TV
Recommended by Karen Walker
Goodfellas is unbeatable and best watched as a double feature with its bookend, Casino. The editing, the music, the dialogue and the insight into human nature make it riveting and let’s not even get started on Ray Liotta’s eyes! “Whenever we needed money, we’d rob the airport. To us, it was better than Citibank.” I must have seen it 10 times or more and it always amazes me.
The Craft on Apple TV and YouTube
Recommended by Amy Lautogo, designer of Infamy Apparel
Iconic and less problematic than most movies in this late ‘90s timeframe. The music reminds me of my old Walkman and waiting for the 392 bus in Onehunga (before Dress Smart was a thing). The fashion still slaps and the sisterhood is grand, while it lasts.
Studio 54 on Academy on Demand; 1971: The Year That Music Changed Everything on Apple TV+; The Velvet Underground on Apple TV+
Recommended by Kate Sylvester
I have been missing live music so much, thank god for music documentaries! Recent highlights include Studio 54, 1971 and Todd Haynes’ The Velvet Underground.
Black Widow and Nomadland, both on Disney +
Recommended by Keva Rands, founder and designer of Papa Clothing
I have to admit here that I’ve been bingeing Marvel films. I guess when you are in and out of lockdown, superheroes are quite a fun way to distract yourself. My favorites are The Avenger series and, despite not loving Scarlett Johansson, I really enjoyed Black Widow and am more invested in this character now.
Nomadland is a slower and thoughtful film. Frances McDormand plays this type of character so well. The scenery is gorgeous and the community that it portrays is honoured well, I think.
Cruella on Disney +
Recommended by Elisabeth Findlay, co-founder of Zambesi
I loved this movie! A feast for the eyes and left the Silky Otter cinema in Auckland’s Orakei with a smile on my face.
Paris, Texas
Recommended by Kate Megaw, founder and designer of Penny Sage
It's hard for me to pick a favourite, I love so many movies. One film that I have watched over and over again is Paris, Texas. It's so beautiful, I love the pace, the saturated colours and the music - the soundtrack is composed by Ry Cooder. It has definitely inspired a few Penny Sage knitwear pieces!
A Star is Born on Neon and Apple TV
Recommended by Sarah Cotteral, founder of Silk & Steel
With Lady Gaga and Bradley Cooper, it’s one of my favourites for the music - and it’s also one for the tissues!
Swiss Family Robinson on Disney + and Apple TV
Recommended by Sarah-Jane Duff, designer of Lost and Led Astray
So much of my childhood was wrapped up in this movie. I could not count how many times I’ve watched it, and not just as a child. To this day, I still dream of living in a tree house.
Dirty Dancing on Neon
Recommended by Kathryn Wilson
I’m an ‘80s baby and Dirty Dancing would be something I’ve watched more than 50 times over the years. We even played it in the marquee at our wedding breakfast!
