Bludgeon

"This is what happens when jocks meet geeks." That's how a modern knight defines the brutal sport of medieval combat. Participants don armour, swords and battle axes to fight each other, with the hope of representing New Zealand. The documentary's eccentric cast — including rookie Nick Waiariki and Steel Thorns captain Martainn 'The Machine' Cuff — have to overcome an array of obstacles, including a fear of wolves. Directors Andy Deere and Ryan Heron made this film as a follow-up to their 2016 Loading Doc short film of the same name. 

I can't get away from fighting. I've grown up with it. There must be a way of unlocking that warrior in me.

– Medieval combat fighter Nick Waiariki

Key Cast & Crew

Ryan Heron

Co-Director, Producer, Camera

Andy Deere

Co-Director, Editor, Camera, Producer

Derek Metivier

Sound - Re-Recording Mixer

Tim Flower

Camera

Jeremy Toy

Composer