The film, directed by Michelle Walshe and Lindsay Utz, includes home videos shot by Ardern’s husband Clarke Gayford, as well as archival footage and interviews.
It covers Ardern’s prime ministership, from her surprise ascension to leader of the Labour party in 2017 until her resignation in 2023.
Here’s what the critics are saying:
“Offering an eye-opening insider perspective that comes as a reminder of what conviction politics looks like when it is maintained even under extreme pressure, as well as being a celebration of feminism, Prime Minister holds appeal for audiences well beyond New Zealand’s shores.”
“…even with its omissions and glossiness — a typical side effect of insider access — Prime Minister’s portrait of Ardern is so persuasive it might make you wish you could vote for her.”
“…when it comes time to wrap up the story of Ardern’s leadership, the film’s lack of political complexity proves detrimental.
“Ardern’s actual outlooks are usually skimmed past, or presented as broad ideological statements about social progress, with no mention of any of the financial policies (or tax promises un-kept) that would affect her approval beyond anti-vaccine fringe elements — a largely external factor framed as central to her resignation.”
“Ultimately, ‘Prime Minister’ feels like a film that would’ve had more impact if released a year ago, but today reads as a tragic depiction of yet another experienced, thoughtful woman whose determination to do good, both by her family and the country she represents, is steam-rolled by the horror and bigotry other individuals wish to bring on the world.”
“Prime Minister is a one-sided, glossy view of Jacinda Ardern, a bit of a puff piece, and maybe those that live in New Zealand will have a different opinion…Yet, those that are not her supporters aren’t likely to watch this in the first place, and those outside of New Zealand who are unfamiliar with Ardern will likely find her immense empathy and respect inspiring.”
“In politics as in documentary filmmaking, access is everything — and “Prime Minister” directors Michelle Walshe and Lindsay Utz get extraordinary access and use it to create a fascinating, emotional portrait of former New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern.”
