Impressively played by trans actor Elz Carrad, trans activist Caz Davis has a lot of explaining to do when he returns home to rural New Zealand after being away in Auckland for 10 years where he transitioned. With an estranged father who doesn’t recognize him and is deeply hurt by Caz missing his mother’s funeral, an ex-boyfriend who questions his sexuality when he still feels an attraction, a best friend who felt abandoned, and an environmental crisis threatening the farming community, Caz may have bitten off more than he can chew.

The filmmaking team’s groundbreaking #byusandaboutus mission of genuine transgender representation is unmistakable, including co-writer Cole Meyers’ celebration of trans community and Māori culture. Rūrangi places indigenous, gender-diverse people in all stages of production, providing a two-way street of mentorship on filmmaking and gender/sexuality education. With gorgeous composition and cinematography, this endlessly charming treasure from New Zealand isn’t just a triumph in authenticity; it’s one of the indelible highlights of Frameline44.