We Were Dangerous

Special Jury Award, Narrative Feature Competition, 2024 SXSW Film Festival
Opening Night Film, 2024 New Zealand International Film Festival

What does it mean to be a young, queer, and “troubled” teenage girl in times of brutal British colonization? Not even a day into their newly realized friendship, Nellie (Erana James) and Daisy (Manaia Hall) are plucked from the streets and placed in a cohort of other outcasts at the School for Incorrigible and Delinquent Girls.

This dynamic duo gives us a coming-of-age story like no other. Under the heavy hand of a devout matron (Rima Te Wiata), Nellie and Daisy meet Lou (Nathalie Morris) who helps them find excitement in anarchy and refuge in friendship. When innocent pranks and typical teen rebellions begin to have real, life-threatening punishments in the dead of night, the girls must decide whether to fall in line or break free from their island prison.

Facing off against colonization, conversion therapy, and Native/indigenous erasure, this vibrant group of Māori and Pākehā teenagers showcase the power of chosen family and solidarity. Josephine Stewart-Te Whiu’s debut feature WE WERE DANGEROUS is charming and masterful, balancing a bleak backdrop with hope and humor.

– Selena Do