SXSW WINNER NARRATIVE FEATURE SPECIAL JURY AWARD

In 1954 New Zealand, rebellious teens Nellie (Erana James) and Daisy (Manaia Hall) make a daring escape from an institution for delinquent girls—only to be caught and sent to an even more remote facility on an isolated island. There, they are joined by Lou (Nathalie Morris), a well-to-do newcomer, and together they navigate a harsh new world under the strict rule of a devout and domineering Matron (Rima Te Wiata). Resistant to authority, the trio form an unbreakable bond, rejecting the institution’s rigid expectations and finding solace in their friendship. But as night falls, the island reveals its darker secrets—where reformation takes a sinister turn. When experimental punishments threaten to break their spirits, Nellie and Daisy plot rebellion, only to find themselves at odds with Lou, who fears the consequences of defiance. As tensions rise, the girls must choose between survival and resistance in a place designed to erase them.

A rousing show of defiance unto itself… We Were Dangerous may be short, but it’s precious – Indiewire

A compelliing coming-of-age story with intrepid force – Film Inquiry

Both funny and frightening…James will breal your heart wide open with a single, silent look – Collider