Our Iwi’s Rising Star - Elizabeth Atkinson

Apr 3

A few weeks ago you would have read about Anahera Parata's story of being behind the scenes in the film industry. This week we share the story of one of our rangatahi in front of the camera. Elizabeth Atkinson (Ngāti Toa Rangatira) is a rising star in the new Aotearoa movie "The Mountain" directed by Rachel House.

"The Mountain" is a movie about three kids who want to find healing with the help of Taranaki Maunga, while also finding friendship through their journey.

We spoke with Elizabeth and asked her some questions about herself, her role, her journey through filming this movie and her future in the acting industry.

What is your Ngāti Toa Whakapapa / a bit about your whānau.

Ko Whitireia te maunga

Ko Parirua te awa

Ko Raukawakawa te moana

Ko Ngāti Toa Rangatira te iwi

Ko Tainui te waka

Ko Takapūwāhia te marae

Ko Herbert Elkington raua ko Victoria Te Ataahua Te Tau o te Rangi Wikitoa oku tupuna.

Ko Elizabeth Atkinson toku ingoa.

What got you interested in acting and the film industry?

Acting is just like playing make believe as a kid. You get to go into this whole world of imagination. Also getting to be part of the fun you see on screen creating something that people will enjoy or be inspired by. That's what got me interested in acting and the film industry.

What inspires you? (Whānau? Tupuna? Friends? A celebrity?)

My māmā inspires me. She's such a hard worker. Zendaya, Jennifer Lawrence and Florence Pugh. They're all such great actresses.

During the filming of 'The Mountain' what did you enjoy most? What were your highlights during the project?

Getting to act and hang out with some amazing people while filming. I've come away from this experience with more whānau. Also filming on Pouakai during sunrise was incredible. I could feel wairua tapu in those moments.

What made you want to take this role (What about Sam's Character spoke to you?)

I wanted to take this role because of her confidence, her determination and her spirit of adventure. She's also learning her own identity during this film, and it's something similar to what I'm going through.

What do you hope people take away with them after watching the film?

A spirit of adventure and love for te ao māori. I just hope they enjoy this kiwi film.

What are your aspirations for the future? Do you think you'll continue a career in acting?

I'd love to continue acting and hope to continue this as a career. I'd also like to travel and see where acting can take me. I also love playing football and creating art. So, any career in those areas would be great.

Check out the trailer for the movie here! Which has already hit the big screens across Aotearoa today, Thursday 28th March, so make sure you go to your nearest cinema and watch it whānau!