Photo: Supplied
The debut feature by director Welby Ings examines the relationship between a teenage boxer and his alcoholic father, played by Oscar-nominee Tim Roth (Rob Roy, Pulp Fiction). Set in small town New Zealand, Punch follows Jim as he prepares for his first professional fight. However, the 17-year-old begins to rethink his trajectory after tangling with the razor-tongued Whetu, who spends his days in an old shack down by the beach.
For Ings, a professor of design at AUT, the film has a deeply personal connection, fulfilling a commitment made to his dying partner more than 20 years ago.
Punch is screening as part of the New Zealand International Film Festival. Head over here for more information.
