Audiences are about to get an intimate look at one of Aotearoa’s most influential musicians. Life in One Chord, the long-awaited documentary on indie music icon Shayne Carter (Straitjacket Fits, Dimmer), makes its World Premiere at Whānau Mārama: New Zealand International Film Festival in Ōtepoti Dunedin on August 16 at the Regent Theatre.
🎥 Watch the trailer here
Sessions in Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch have already sold out, with screenings continuing nationwide as part of NZIFF. The film opens for a limited theatrical release from Father’s Day weekend, September 4.
Directed by Margaret Gordon (Into The Void), Life in One Chord follows Carter’s journey from suburban Dunedin to international recognition as a punk pioneer. Blending personal stories, rare archival footage and reflections on the enduring Dunedin Sound, the film offers an irreverent, heartfelt portrait of an artist who helped shape New Zealand’s musical identity.
After seeing the finished film, Carter says:
“It was intense watching your life and your people flash before your eyes like that, but it was straight up and in a lot of places just made me laugh. So that’s good.”
Gordon, well known for her work documenting Aotearoa’s music history, says the film reflects Carter’s own creative spirit:
“The film, like the music, often has a DIY flavour. I think this lends it authenticity as well as a sense of whimsy and fun.”
Narrated by broadcaster Carol Hirschfeld, the documentary features never‑before‑seen material from Carter’s early gigs, Flying Nun Records’ archives, and candid reflections on his place in rock history.
Produced by Rick Harvie (Maurice & I), scored by Jackson Harry and distributed by Madman (NZ/Australia), Life in One Chord is the result of seven years of work from a dedicated creative team, with support from the New Zealand Film Commission.
📅 For screening dates and ticket info, visit NZIFF.co.nz or lifeinonechord.com.
