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The NightMea
The NightMea is a powerful 5-minute mental health impact film that follows New Zealand boxing champion Mea Motu's journey from domestic violence survivor to WBA titleholder. Through the lens of Māori cultural practices and the metaphor of breath, this film delivers a vital message: nobody should have to fight alone. Combining intimate personal testimony with stunning cinematography of traditional Māori practices, hongi, slow motion and high-energy boxing sequences, the film demonstrates how reconnecting with community, culture, and inner strength can transform trauma into triumph. Mea’s story is a lifeline for anyone struggling with domestic violence, showing that healing is possible when we remember who we are and allow others to help us breathe again.
Topics Covered
Cultural Stigma, Intimate Partner Violence, Stigma
Content Heads Up
References to domestic abuse and partner violence, including a child intervening to protect a parent, and contains boxing scenes.
Representation
Athlete, Indigenous, Diverse Protagonists
Film Style
Documentary
Megan Jones
Megan is an award-winning documentary filmmaker creating stories with social impact. She co-produced No Māori Allowed, directed Six Angry Women, and co-created Black Coast Vanishings. She co-founded Open Closed Doors, a mental health charity.
Stacey Murdoch
Stacey began her career as a BBC researcher in London before returning to New Zealand as a news and current affairs producer. Her credits include the Sundance award-winning documentary Prime Minister and other critically acclaimed documentaries.
