Mereana Wilson
Lead curator
Former NZIFF programme associate; specialises in heist structure and Pacific-screen partnerships.
About us
We are an Auckland-based film brand obsessed with the art of the con — on screen and in the headlines. Our catalogue connects Kiwi audiences with the smartest heist stories from around the world.
Team in the room
Editors, programmers, and writers meet weekly on Queen Street to debate line-ups, licensing notes, and what Kiwi audiences are asking for next.
How we select films & series
Every title is scored for craft, clarity of the con, and relevance to our readers — not for box-office hype alone. Here is the path from pitch to listing.
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Longlist & themes
We tag candidates against our theme map (heists, finance, identity, comedy cons) and check rights availability for New Zealand.
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Editorial review
Two editors read notes independently; we reject titles that treat fraud as pure glamour without consequence.
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Audience fit
We ask whether the film supports classroom use, festival partnerships, or our long-read articles — then prioritise accordingly.
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Publish & refresh
Approved titles get catalogue copy, stills, and a slot in collections; we revisit scores yearly as new releases land.
Our team
Real people behind the picks — editorial experience in film journalism, finance literacy, and festival programming across Aotearoa.
James Okonkwo
Senior editor
Business journalist turned film writer; stress-tests every synopsis against real fraud reporting.
Sofia Patel
Research & compliance
Verifies licensing chains and keeps our disclaimers aligned with NZ consumer law.
Alex Nguyen
Community & education
Connects schools and festivals with screening packs and post-film discussion guides.
Our mission
Coast Films curates heist and con-artist cinema — films where trust is currency and every reel is a sting. We highlight titles that blend entertainment with sharp writing, then pair them with articles that separate fact from fiction.
Based on Queen Street, we work with local festivals, educators, and cinephiles across Aotearoa New Zealand. Whether you are planning a classroom session or a weekend binge, start here.
Visit us
Coast Films291-297 Queen St, Auckland Central
Auckland 1010, New Zealand
+64 9 369 2400
Map
Send a message
Screening licence, press, or partnership enquiries — we read everything from New Zealand business hours.