Exciting news for film and music enthusiasts!

The documentary Marlon Williams: Ngā Ao E Rua – Two Worlds is set to premiere in New Zealand cinemas on May 1st.

This intimate film offers a portrait of the beloved Aotearoa musician as he reconnects with his roots and records his first album in te reo Māori.

Adding to the anticipation, the documentary has been selected for the 72nd Sydney Film Festival, running from June 4th to 15th.

Festival Director Nashen Moodley highlighted the film's inclusion, stating it reflects 'the ingenuity and diversity of cinema today.'

Ngā Ao E Rua – Two Worlds chronicles four transformative years in Marlon Williams' life as he creates his first te reo Māori album, Te Whare Tīwekaweka.

The film captures his journey from international tours to his home in Ōhinehou (Lyttelton), and his return to his marae in Tōrere with his father after decades away.

Director Ursula Grace-Williams reflects on the experience: 'Marlon has such an infectious energy... He's thoughtful, but also very silly, funny, and charismatic.'

Williams acknowledges the challenges of being filmed during such a personal project: 'There were definitely periods of reckoning, but the trust grew and grew as we moved forward.'

Set against the backdrop of Aotearoa New Zealand’s bicultural identity, the film illuminates Williams’ artistic evolution—his classical training, folk roots, and Māori traditions.

The album Te Whare Tīwekaweka is being released at a tumultuous time for te reo and race relations in Aotearoa.

Williams reflects, 'I considered not venturing into it at all, because it’s so politically loaded.'

Notably, the album and film features a duet with Lorde on the track 'Kāhore He Manu E.'

Williams praises her contribution: 'Her pronunciation is beautiful. She’s such a sound-oriented person that she can hear a vowel sound that’s imperceptible to most people.'

Marlon Williams: Ngā Ao E Rua – Two Worlds is a heartfelt and joyful exploration of music, language, and transformation.

Don't miss this profound journey of self-discovery on the big screen.

Watch the official trailer here.