Emotional Premiere of Pike River Film in Greymouth Draws Crowds

The premiere of the film about the Pike River disaster took place on October 30, 2023, at the Regent Theatre in Greymouth, New Zealand. The event drew an audience of approximately 400 attendees, including families of the 29 men who lost their lives in the tragedy that occurred in 2010. Among the notable attendees were actresses Melanie Lynskey and Robyn Malcolm, who portray Anna Osborne and Sonya Rockhouse, respectively, two mothers who have fought tirelessly for justice since the disaster.

The film focuses on the emotional journey of Osborne and Rockhouse as they seek accountability for the events leading to the deaths of their loved ones. During the premiere, Lynskey expressed her deep emotional connection to the story, stating, “I feel on the verge of tears and fainting. I’ve chosen Greymouth to see it for the first time. It’s very emotional but it’s exciting.” Her return to New Zealand for the premiere highlighted the significance of the event for both the local community and the families involved.

Community Impact and Personal Stories

The night before the public premiere, a private viewing was held for the families of the victims. Osborne noted the importance of this moment, saying, “It felt like we were really validated, to be honest, by the families last night, which was huge for us because we were fighting for all 29.” She emphasized that the film encapsulates their long journey for truth and justice, which has spanned nearly 15 years. The anticipation of a forthcoming decision on potential police charges adds to the emotional weight of their story.

Rockhouse, reflecting on the casting of Malcolm as her character, shared her surprise and admiration. “I couldn’t believe that she was going to play me. Ben was also a massive fan of Outrageous Fortune. He would think it hysterical that Cheryl West is playing his mother,” she said, referencing Malcolm’s well-known role in the popular series.

Malcolm conveyed her hope that the film would ignite public outrage regarding the lack of accountability for the avoidable deaths in the disaster. She remarked, “Sonya and Anna are national heroes but also had been through something so awful and so painful, so there was a double sense of responsibility.”

Authenticity and Representation

Director Rob Sarkies placed a strong emphasis on authenticity throughout the production, involving the Pike families in the filmmaking process and ensuring the film was shot in Greymouth, the heart of the tragedy. “The New Zealand premiere couldn’t really be anywhere else. This is ground zero of the Pike River story,” he stated.

Attendees included survivor Russell Smith, who expressed the emotional difficulty he anticipated in watching the film. “I have a packet of tissues with me,” he said, illustrating the profound impact the story continues to have on those directly affected.

Rowdy Durbridge, who lost his son in the disaster, contributed to the film as a mining advisor and costume team member. He expressed pride in the film’s respectful portrayal of the families, stating, “I really liked it. It didn’t include a lot of the nastiness. I support anything that puts Pike out there.”

The film has already garnered attention, having premiered at the Sydney International Film Festival in June. Following the Greymouth premiere, it will be released in cinemas nationwide on October 30, with public preview events featuring post-screening Q&As scheduled in Auckland, Christchurch, and Wellington.

This film not only honors the memories of those lost at Pike River but also serves as a testament to the resilience of the families still seeking justice. As the community gathers to watch this poignant story, it brings to light the need for accountability and remembrance of a tragedy that profoundly affected New Zealand.