Tom's Dairy

About This Movie

Tom's Dairy is a quiet reflection on childhood, set against the backdrop of West Auckland in the early '80s. The film's pacing is deliberate, allowing moments of stillness to resonate deeply, capturing the essence of a Samoan boy's summer day. It’s not flashy, but the nuances in the performances draw you in. There’s this raw honesty in the way it handles grief and conflict without resorting to melodrama. The practical effects are subtle, lending a sense of realness to the setting. It’s distinct in its approach—there’s an everyday quality to it that feels both nostalgic and poignant. It doesn’t try too hard, just lets the story unfold naturally.

Explores themes of childhood innocenceSet in West Auckland, 1981Focuses on practical storytelling techniques