

Dread
“"I aroha to them. It was not their fault that they had strayed because of the conditioning. Colonisation."”
Synopsis
An East Coast community in Ruatōria, New Zealand attempts to live in autarchy according to the tenets of their movement. Bob Marley, a prophet of our electronic age, is the soundtrack to the everyday lives of these Māori who feel closer to their own roots by observing a blend of Afro-Carribean Rastafarianism and the Ringatū faith. Merata Mita's camera respectfully portrays this singular cultural dialogue. The outsider cultures of Jamaicans, Ethiopians and Māori have come together, vibrating to a common cosmic chord. They find an underground brotherhood, across continents and seas.
Top Cast
Explore Star Directory →Key Information & Fast Facts
- Director
- Merata Mita
- Screenplay & Story
- Merata Mita, Kathy Sunderland
- Original Title
- Dread
- Country of Origin
- New Zealand
- Spoken Languages
- English, Maori
- Runtime
- 44m
- Production Studios
- Ora digital, Inside New Zealand
Creative Leadership & Key Crew
Merata Mita
Merata Mita, Kathy Sunderland
Richard Rautjoki
Geoff Steven, Richard Rautjoki
Department Leadership Roster
Merata Mita
Writer
Richard Rautjoki
Producer
Richard Rautjoki
Editor
Merata Mita
Director
Production Stills & Gallery
Official cinematic photography and background stills for Dread.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Dread
Quick factual answers about cast, synopsis, director, box office, and release information.
What is Dread about?
An East Coast community in Ruatōria, New Zealand attempts to live in autarchy according to the tenets of their movement. Bob Marley, a prophet of our electronic age, is the soundtrack to the everyday lives of these Māori who feel closer to their own roots by observing a blend of Afro-Carribean Rastafarianism and the Ringatū faith. Merata Mita's camera respectfully portrays this singular cultural dialogue. The outsider cultures of Jamaicans, Ethiopians and Māori have come together, vibrating to a common cosmic chord. They find an underground brotherhood, across continents and seas.
Who directed Dread?
Dread was directed by Merata Mita.
Who stars in Dread?
The principal cast of Dread includes Te Hoko Whitu, Derek Fox, Io, King Glory, Tigi Ness.
When was Dread released and how long is it?
Dread was released in 1996 with a total runtime of 44m.


















