First Hand
Television, 1992–1996
Thinking that documentaries would benefit if film crews were much smaller, TVNZ producer Richard Thomas proposed that emerging directors take over much of the filming themselves, using consumer video cameras. Thomas organised camera workshops for First Hand's directors, and overcame opposition that this more intimate style of making documentaries wouldn't meet broadcast standards. The result gave early opportunities to a host of emerging filmmakers, including award-winners Leanne Pooley and Mark McNeill, and production executive Alan Erson.
First Hand - A New Breed of Hero
Television, 1993 (Full Length)
First Hand - Bedtime Stories
Television, 1995 (Full Length)
First Hand - Bowling Order
Television, 1992 (Full Length Episode)
First Hand - Changing Minds
Television, 1992 (Full Length Episode)
First Hand - Just Like Anyone Else
Television, 1992 (Full Length)
First Hand - Just Words
Television, 1994 (Full Length)
First Hand - Mahurangi Day
Television, 1992 (Full Length Episode)
First Hand - Out of Work
Television, 1992 (Full Length Episode)
First Hand - Paradise Lost
Television, 1992 (Full Length Episode)
First Hand - Running the Rubbish
Television, 1992 (Full Length Episode)
First Hand - Sister to the Sinner
Television, 1992 (Full Length Episode)
First Hand - Two Men from Tūākau
Television, 1993 (Full Length Episode)