“New Zealand was kind of getting a reputation for making middle-of-the-road films that weren't really that unique. They were kind of New Zealand versions of overseas films, and for sure, having an Oscar nomination totally helped me get funding.”

New Zealand filmmaker, writer, actor, and comedian

Taika Waititi, born Taika David Cohen, is a New Zealand filmmaker, writer, actor, and comedian. He has built a career across film and television and is known for work that blends humor with character-driven storytelling. Waititi has received major honors including an Academy Award, a BAFTA Award, and a Grammy Award. He has also been nominated for two Golden Globe Awards and six Emmy Awards, and Time magazine named him one of the 100 most influential people in the world in 2022.