James Nesbitt moved to New Zealand in 2011 when he landed the role of Bofur in Peter Jackson's Hobbit trilogy, but he says the country remains largely unknown to him. Travelling more than 1,000 miles from the tip of the North Island down to the South, the actor finds out more about the place he has called home, visiting areas of natural beauty and learning about the nation's history and traditions. Along the way, he meets former All Blacks player the late great Jonah Lomu, takes a trip around film star Sam Neill's vineyards in Queenstown, catches up with Peter Jackson and goes Base-jumping from the tallest building in Auckland.
Acting
Nesbitt's genuine, slightly goofy charm carries every scene effortlessly.
Cinematography
Stunning NZ landscapes that make you question your life choices.
Production
Surprising access to Jackson, Neill, and Lomu's final on-screen appearance.
Director
Sally Norris
Trivia, insights & behind the scenes
Nesbitt spent nearly three years filming The Hobbit trilogy in Wellington, yet this documentary reveals he barely explored beyond his hotel and set locations.
The meeting with Jonah Lomu carries unexpected weight—Lomu passed away just two years after filming, making this one of his last on-camera appearances discussing his legacy with a fellow celebrity transplant.
No ratings yet
Sign in to join the discussion — comments are spoiler-gated to your watch progress.
Discussion starters
US
GB
