In New Zealand, 1981, Josh Waaka is a 17-year-old square peg in the round, rugby-obsessed hole that is St Gilbert’s College. Meanwhile, the Springboks rugby team, representing Apartheid-era South Africa, are touring New Zealand, sparking nationwide protests and dividing the country. Josh's newfound passion for acting, as well as a greater awareness of his Maaori heritage, sends him tumbling headlong into conflict where he is forced to either conform or stand up for himself, his whaanau (family) and his future. Uproar is the funny and heartwarming story of a young man's battle to find his true voice, set against the volatile backdrop of New Zealand's fight for its national identity. 

PRESS

ROTTEN TOMATOES 100%

THE CURB / Nadine Whitney

“Josh says, “We all have our stories. They’re not there to pull us down. They’re there to push us forward.” Uproar is a story set in the past that continues to push Māori stories forward – a funny, kind, warm, and bittersweet story about acceptance and rebellion. Uproar is a triumph for Aotearoa New Zealand cinema.”

FROM THE FOURTH ROW / Dan Skip Allen

“This coming-of-age film wasn’t like others I’ve seen. It’s a very good one though. I’m a fan of period piece films and this one integrated the 80s nicely into the story. This was a pleasant surprise to me. I truly enjoyed what I watched.”

SCREEN RANT

“Uproar hits most of the predictable beats of a coming-of-age story, but its exploration of a little-known resistance movement, and the genuine compassion and humor with which it presents its characters and world make it a heartfelt winner.”

TMC.IO / Shari K. Green

“The film is entertaining, the title appropriate, and the acting ensemble is fabulous. At no time will you feel your time could be better spent. Oh! If you grew up in the 1980’s, you’ll love this soundtrack.”

TIFF / Jane Schoettle

“ With wit and wisdom, Uproar offers a cheering call to action and a reminder to live as your true self, even if it sometimes gets in the way.”