Marama horror film trailer explores anti-colonial themes

The trailer for Marama, a Māori Gothic horror film directed by Taratoa Stappard, has been released. Set in 1859, the story follows Mary, a young Māori orphan summoned from New Zealand to North Yorkshire. Upon arrival, she discovers her host is dead and becomes a governess for the granddaughter of Sir Nathaniel Cole. As she settles in, Mary uncovers dark secrets regarding Cole’s past in New Zealand and begins to experience supernatural visions, eventually inheriting the power of Matakite, a seer ability.

Marama marks Stappard’s first full-length feature film. The cast includes Ariana Osborne, Evelyn Towersey, Toby Stephens, Umi Myers, and Erroll Shand. Following its theatrical release in New Zealand in February 2026, the film saw limited releases in the United States, France, and Portugal before its digital release on June 9.