Curtis Vowell is a renowned Cook Island Maori director with an impressive 20-year career in the New Zealand film industry. His debut feature film, Fantail, released in 2013, garnered widespread recognition and accolades, including eight nominations for the prestigious New Zealand Film Awards. This critically acclaimed film was also invited to make its international premiere at the esteemed Rotterdam International Film Festival, further solidifying its reputation as a standout in the industry. Fantail's success didn't go unnoticed, as it was also selected for the Melbourne International Film Festival, where it won a coveted People's Choice award.
Vowell's subsequent feature film, Baby Done, released in 2020, was a collaborative effort with Taika Waititi and Carthew Neal's Piki Films. This highly anticipated film boasts an impressive cast, featuring the talented Rose Matafeo and Matthew Lewis. Since taking the reins of the popular NZ hospital drama Shortland Street in 2020, Curtis Vowell has continued to make a lasting impact on the industry, cementing his status as a director of exceptional skill and dedication.
