'Mārama' Review: Taratoa Stappard's Māori Gothic Horror Debut Wins Top Prize at SIFF 2026
By
Alison Foreman
Sesame, salt, and substance. A flagship bake.
Summary
Writer/director Taratoa Stappard's feature debut "Mārama" wins top prize at SIFF 2026. The film is a Māori gothic horror revenge story that thoughtfully translates historic Māori trauma into genre entertainment. Led by breakout performance from Ariāna Osborne, the film turns Māori history into a haunting gothic revenge horror, earning acclaim for its intelligence and soul.
Key quotes
· 3 pulledAtrocities taken from real human history haven't always been a natural fit for the horror crowd.
That's what makes writer/director Taratoa Stappard's stunning feature film debut, 'Mārama,' feel so essential.
Exhibiting unique intelligence and soul, this first-time filmmaker just won top prize at the Seattle International Film Festival.
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