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Best Geoff Murphy Movies
13th Nov 2025
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Geoff Murphy, the visionary filmmaker behind cinematic gems like *The Quiet Earth* and *Utu*, has left an indelible mark on New Zealand and international cinema. His distinctive directorial style, often blending thrilling action with profound existential themes and stunning landscapes, has captivated audiences for decades. From post-apocalyptic survival to sweeping historical epics, Murphy's filmography is a rich tapestry of genre-bending storytelling that consistently challenges and entertains. Now it's your turn to celebrate his legacy. We're curious to know which of Geoff Murphy's films resonate most with you. From the thought-provoking science fiction of *The Quiet Earth* to the visceral intensity of *The Saga of the Grizzly Adams*, or perhaps one of his other impactful works, cast your vote and share your personal favorites in the poll below. Let your voice be heard and help us determine the definitive ranking of Geoff Murphy's best cinematic achievements.
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#6.
Wild Man (1977)
6/12
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Geoff Murphy's *Wild Man* (1977) is a foundational piece in understanding his distinctive directorial style and his fascination with characters operating on the fringes of society. Set against the rugged, untamed landscapes of New Zealand, the film showcases Murphy's ability to harness the environment as a character in itself, amplifying the isolation and primal instincts of its protagonists. It's a raw, visceral exploration of masculinity and a desperate search for identity, featuring a compelling, if often enigmatic, central performance that hints at the more nuanced character studies Murphy would later perfect. What firmly plants *Wild Man* on a "Best Geoff Murphy Movies" list is its unadulterated, often challenging artistic vision. While perhaps less polished than some of his later works, its independent spirit and unflinching portrayal of a man at odds with himself and the world around him feel deeply personal to Murphy's filmmaking ethos. It's a testament to his early commitment to exploring complex, often troubled individuals and his unique talent for weaving these human dramas into visually arresting narratives that are as much about inner turmoil as they are about external struggle.
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Blerta Revisited (2001)
"Blerta Revisited (2001)" stands as a compelling testament to Geoff Murphy's enduring fascination with the pioneering spirit of New Zealand's early music scene, specifically the iconic Blerta band. Far more than a simple retrospective, this documentary delves into the raw energy, chaotic brilliance, and profound influence of Blerta through a rich tapestry of archival footage, candid interviews, and Murphy's characteristic visually dynamic approach. It showcases his ability to capture the essence of a cultural moment and the personalities that defined it, offering an intimate and often poignant glimpse into the lives and music of these groundbreaking artists. The film’s power lies in its evocative portrayal of a formative period in New Zealand's creative landscape, a subject Murphy clearly holds dear. This film earns its place on a "Best Geoff Murphy Movies" list not just for its subject matter, but for how Murphy imbues it with his signature directorial flair. He masterfully navigates the complexities of memory and legacy, weaving a narrative that is both celebratory and insightful. The film’s energetic editing, its willingness to embrace the untamed spirit of its subjects, and its exploration of themes like artistic freedom and communal creativity are all hallmarks of Murphy's unique cinematic voice. "Blerta Revisited (2001)" is a significant work that demonstrates Murphy's deep connection to New Zealand's cultural history and his skill in transforming that passion into engaging and memorable cinema, solidifying its status as a standout in his impressive filmography.
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Utu (1983)
*Utu* is a sweeping historical epic set in the tumultuous 1860s New Zealand during the Waikato War. The film powerfully portrays the brutal conflict between the indigenous Māori people and the British colonial forces, focusing on the complex motivations and actions of its characters. At its heart is Te Wheke, a Māori warrior initially fighting for the British, whose loyalty is shattered by betrayal. This spurs him on a relentless quest for *utu*, a concept embodying righteous vengeance and the restoration of balance. The narrative also follows the settler Williamson, driven by his own desire for retribution after Te Wheke's devastating attack on his homestead, creating a visceral cycle of violence. Amidst this turmoil, Wiremu, a British officer, embodies a pragmatic, perhaps weary, view, believing Māori resistance to be ultimately futile, highlighting the clash of cultures and ideologies. The inclusion of *Utu* on a "Best Geoff Murphy Movies" list is well-deserved due to its profound cinematic achievements and its significance in New Zealand filmmaking. Murphy masterfully crafts a visually stunning and emotionally resonant portrayal of a pivotal and often glossed-over period in the nation's history. The film is renowned for its gritty realism, its unflinching depiction of the consequences of colonialism, and its complex characterizations, particularly Te Wheke's journey from collaborator to avenger. *Utu* stands out for its ambitious scope, its stunning cinematography capturing the rugged New Zealand landscape, and its powerful exploration of themes like justice, identity, and the enduring human cost of conflict. It is a landmark film that showcases Geoff Murphy's talent for epic storytelling and his deep engagement with his country's cultural heritage.
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Goodbye Pork Pie (1980)
"Goodbye Pork Pie" is a quintessential New Zealand road movie, following Gerry, who impulsively hires a car in Kaitaia using a stolen license. He embarks on an epic journey south to Invercargill with John, a man nursing a broken heart after his wife's departure. What begins as a seemingly desperate escape transforms into an ultimate Kiwi road trip adventure, filled with quirky encounters, unexpected detours, and a growing sense of camaraderie as they navigate the stunning landscapes of New Zealand. Geoff Murphy's masterful direction imbues "Goodbye Pork Pie" with a vibrant energy and an authentic sense of place, making it a standout in his filmography. The film perfectly captures the spirit of freedom and rebellion, resonating with a generation of New Zealanders. Its blend of humor, pathos, and breathtaking cinematography, coupled with its iconic Mini car chase sequences, solidified its status as a beloved classic and a powerful testament to Murphy's talent for crafting engaging and culturally significant cinema.
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The Quiet Earth (1985)
After a top-secret experiment tragically misfires, scientist Zac Hobson awakens to a chilling silence, believing he may be the only man left alive on Earth. As he grapples with the profound isolation and the haunting mystery of the vanished population, Zac must navigate a world reclaimed by nature and confront his own sanity. His journey is one of desperate survival, existential dread, and the gradual realization that he might not be as alone as he initially feared, leading to a profound and unsettling encounter. This film absolutely belongs on a list of Geoff Murphy's best for its starkly atmospheric post-apocalyptic vision and its deeply humanistic exploration of loneliness and resilience. Murphy masterfully crafts a palpable sense of desolation, utilizing the New Zealand landscape to its full, eerie potential. "The Quiet Earth" showcases his knack for creating compelling, character-driven narratives within speculative fiction, blending psychological drama with a thoughtful, ambiguous science fiction premise that lingers long after the credits roll, solidifying its status as a standout in his filmography.
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Young Guns II (1990)
*Young Guns II* (1990) plunges viewers back into the volatile world of the West, with a core trio of the original "young guns" – Billy the Kid (Emilio Estevez), Jose Chavez y Chavez (Lou Diamond Phillips), and Doc Scurlock (Kiefer Sutherland) – returning for this thrilling sequel. The narrative zeroes in on Billy the Kid's desperate flight towards the sanctuary of Old Mexico, all while being relentlessly pursued by a determined posse of government agents, spearheaded by the formidable Pat Garrett. This installment amps up the action and emotional stakes as it chronicles the legendary outlaw's final days and his desperate bid for freedom against overwhelming odds. Geoff Murphy's directorial hand is evident in *Young Guns II*'s robust pacing and its ability to blend exhilarating action sequences with moments of character introspection. While the first film focused on the formation of the Regulators, this sequel delves into the tragic consequences of their actions and the personal toll of outlaw life. Murphy skillfully navigates the chaotic gunfights and horseback chases, but also allows for the exploration of the enduring bond between the characters and the grim reality of their predicament. The film's expansive landscapes and gritty portrayal of the era, coupled with Murphy's knack for managing ensemble casts and delivering high-impact cinematic experiences, firmly plant *Young Guns II* as a noteworthy entry in his body of work.
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Wild Man (1977)
Geoff Murphy's *Wild Man* (1977) is a foundational piece in understanding his distinctive directorial style and his fascination with characters operating on the fringes of society. Set against the rugged, untamed landscapes of New Zealand, the film showcases Murphy's ability to harness the environment as a character in itself, amplifying the isolation and primal instincts of its protagonists. It's a raw, visceral exploration of masculinity and a desperate search for identity, featuring a compelling, if often enigmatic, central performance that hints at the more nuanced character studies Murphy would later perfect. What firmly plants *Wild Man* on a "Best Geoff Murphy Movies" list is its unadulterated, often challenging artistic vision. While perhaps less polished than some of his later works, its independent spirit and unflinching portrayal of a man at odds with himself and the world around him feel deeply personal to Murphy's filmmaking ethos. It's a testament to his early commitment to exploring complex, often troubled individuals and his unique talent for weaving these human dramas into visually arresting narratives that are as much about inner turmoil as they are about external struggle.
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Under Siege 2: Dark Territory (1995)
In *Under Siege 2: Dark Territory*, former Navy SEAL Casey Ryback finds himself on a cross-country train journey that quickly devolves into a high-stakes battle for survival. A disgruntled electronics expert, seeking to hold Washington D.C. hostage, has commandeered the passenger train and transformed it into an untraceable command center for a devastating weapons satellite. Ryback, the sole obstacle between the terrorist's catastrophic plan and the nation's capital, must once again utilize his formidable combat skills and strategic thinking to thwart the impending disaster. Geoff Murphy's direction in *Under Siege 2: Dark Territory* showcases his knack for crafting tightly-plotted action thrillers with a compelling sense of escalating danger. Murphy, known for his work on films like *The Quiet Earth* and *Fortress*, brings a gritty realism and a palpable sense of confined tension to the train setting, amplifying the stakes of Ryback's fight. His ability to balance explosive set pieces with character-driven moments, particularly in showcasing Steven Seagal's physicality and Ryback's quiet determination, makes this installment a standout in the action genre and a strong entry in any "Best Geoff Murphy Movies" list.
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Freejack (1992)
In Geoff Murphy's "Freejack," set in a dystopian 2009, the concept of mortality takes on a chilling new dimension. Alex Furlong, a celebrated race-car driver from the early 21st century, is unexpectedly plucked from his final moments and brought forward in time. Here, he finds himself a pawn in a desperate game orchestrated by powerful corporations who seek to preserve their wealth and status by transferring the minds of the terminally ill rich into younger, healthier bodies. Furlong's unique predicament, facing the ultimate existential horror of having his consciousness erased and replaced, places him at the heart of a thrilling science-fiction chase. This film earns its place among Geoff Murphy's best for its ambitious blend of high-octane action and thought-provoking science fiction themes. Murphy skillfully navigates the complex narrative, infusing "Freejack" with a distinct visual style and a sense of urgency that keeps audiences engaged. While perhaps not as overtly celebrated as some of his other works, "Freejack" showcases Murphy's talent for crafting compelling genre films that explore societal anxieties and the human condition, making it a standout entry in his directorial filmography.
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Never Say Die (1988)
Geoff Murphy's "Never Say Die" is a quintessential example of his knack for blending high-octane action with a darkly comedic, somewhat anarchic spirit. The film follows a gruff mercenary hired to protect a young heiress from a series of assassins, a seemingly straightforward premise that Murphy injects with his signature visual flair and a healthy dose of the unexpected. From its explosive set pieces to its quirky characterizations and surprisingly touching moments, "Never Say Die" showcases Murphy's ability to craft engaging popcorn entertainment that still feels uniquely his own, a testament to his directorial command. What truly solidifies "Never Say Die" on a "Best Geoff Murphy Movies" list is its unpretentious, pure entertainment value, delivered with a distinct New Zealand sensibility. It’s a film that doesn't take itself too seriously, allowing Murphy to play with genre conventions and deliver a satisfying ride for fans of action and adventure. The film's enduring appeal lies in its efficient storytelling, memorable performances, and the sheer kinetic energy that Murphy masterfully orchestrates, making it a standout entry in his impressive filmography and a strong contender for any compilation of his best work.
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Spooked (2004)
Geoff Murphy's "Spooked" from 2004 stands as a compelling entry for any "Best Geoff Murphy Movies" list due to its signature blend of taut suspense and character-driven intrigue. While perhaps not as widely recognized as some of his earlier works, "Spooked" showcases Murphy's mature directorial voice, crafting a narrative that delves into the murky depths of political conspiracy and personal paranoia. The film masterfully builds atmosphere, drawing the audience into a world where trust is a rare commodity and every shadow can hide a threat, a hallmark of Murphy's ability to create palpable tension. What elevates "Spooked" is its exploration of complex ethical dilemmas and the psychological toll of living under constant suspicion. Murphy doesn't shy away from presenting morally ambiguous characters and situations, forcing viewers to question their own allegiances and the very nature of truth. This intellectual engagement, coupled with a meticulously constructed plot and strong performances, makes "Spooked" a mature and thought-provoking thriller that firmly cements Geoff Murphy's status as a filmmaker adept at navigating the darker corners of the human experience and the political landscape.
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Fortress 2: Re-Entry (2000)
Seven years after escaping the planet-prison in the original *Fortress*, John Brennick and his family find themselves captured once more. This time, they're incarcerated in a new, hyper-advanced orbital penitentiary, run by the same ruthless corporation they fought before. Despite the seemingly insurmountable security, Brennick, driven by the hope of reuniting with his son back on Earth, proves that a father's love and a survivor's spirit are forces even the most sophisticated prison can't contain. Prepare for a relentless battle against overwhelming odds as Brennick unleashes a campaign of calculated resistance. *Fortress 2: Re-Entry* earns its place on a list of Geoff Murphy's best films through its solid continuation of his signature blend of science fiction action and humanistic drama. Murphy, a master of crafting compelling narratives within challenging futuristic settings, injects *Fortress 2* with the same gritty realism and palpable tension that defined the original. He expertly balances explosive set pieces with Brennick's deeply personal motivation, showcasing his ability to elicit a strong performance from Christopher Lambert and maintain a propulsive pace. The film further solidifies Murphy's reputation for delivering intelligent, character-driven sci-fi that resonates beyond mere spectacle.
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Tales of Mystery and Imagination (2009)
"Tales of Mystery and Imagination" (2009) earns its place on a "Best Geoff Murphy Movies" list not for directing, but for its profound thematic resonance and the subtle imprint of Murphy's distinctive creative spirit. While the film itself is an anthology of Edgar Allan Poe adaptations, the inclusion of Geoff Murphy as a producer underscores a deliberate curatorial choice. Murphy, renowned for his ability to delve into the darker, more psychological aspects of human experience and his unique visual storytelling, likely gravitated towards this project to lend his artistic sensibility to tales that explore themes of madness, the supernatural, and the unsettling depths of the human psyche. The producers of "Tales of Mystery and Imagination" clearly sought to imbue the collection with a certain quality, and Geoff Murphy's involvement suggests a shared appreciation for atmospheric dread and intellectually stimulating narratives. His known preference for character-driven stories that grapple with existential questions and feature striking, often melancholic, imagery would have undoubtedly influenced the selection and presentation of the Poe stories chosen. Therefore, this film represents a crucial, albeit behind-the-scenes, contribution to the legacy of Geoff Murphy's cinematic philosophy, showcasing his taste for the macabre and his enduring influence on projects that delve into the darker corners of imagination.
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