The New Zealand-Australian co-production “Went Up The Hill” has hit a big international milestone.
The film released over the weekend across more than 130 screens in the United States.
Premiering as a Special Presentation at the 2024 Toronto International Film Festival, director Samuel Van Grinsven said: “From its haunting landscapes to its emotional core, this film is deeply personal. I’m honoured by the response it’s received and excited for American audiences to experience it.”
A co-production between local producer Vicky Pope (“Savage,” upcoming “Pike River”) and Australian producers Sam Jennings and Kristina Ceyton of Causeway Films (“Talk To Me,” “The Babadook”), the film highlights the strength of trans-Tasman collaboration and genre storytelling.
Pope said: “To see ‘Went Up The Hill’ reach audiences across the US is incredibly rewarding. This film has been a labour of love, and we’re thrilled to see it resonate so widely.”
NZFC CEO Annie Murray said: “The release of ’Went Up The Hill’ marks another step forward for New Zealand film, building on a wave of creative momentum. With ‘Tinā’ soon to reach US audiences and ‘Mārama’ premiering at Toronto, our storytelling continues to evolve and resonate. Co-productions like this highlight the power of collaboration — bringing together talent, resources, and vision to create something truly special.”
Starring Vicky Krieps (“Corsage,” “The Phantom Thread”) and Dacre Montgomery (“Stranger Things”), “Went Up The Hill” premiered in New Zealand at Whānau Mārama: New Zealand International Film Festival in Auckland. Van Grinsven attended with Montgomery and his New Zealand whānau. The film is currently screening nationwide as part of the festival and is also showing at the Melbourne International Film Festival, where Van Grinsven is nominated for Best Director.
Inspired by the director’s childhood memories of New Zealand’s South Island, the film blends psychological drama with supernatural tension. Jack (Montgomery) travels to New Zealand for the funeral of his estranged mother, Elizabeth. He claims to have been invited by her widow, Jill (Krieps), though she has no memory of doing so. Jill nonetheless welcomes Jack into her striking South Island home. As night falls, Elizabeth’s spirit begins to stir, revealing unfinished business that binds both Jack and Jill.
“Went Up The Hill” was made with investment from the New Zealand Film Commission, Screen Australia, and the New Zealand Screen Production Rebate, along with support from Screen CanterburyNZ and Screen NSW. Vendetta Films is distributing the film in New Zealand and Australia, Greenwich Entertainment is handling distribution in North America, and Bankside Films is managing international sales while co-representing North American rights alongside CAA Media Finance.