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How it works

From your first message through to holding the finished film in your hands — here’s what to expect at every step.

01

The first step

We have a conversation

It starts with a relaxed, no-obligation chat — just us talking about your loved one. Who they are, what’s prompting you to do this now, and what you’d love them to share on film.

There’s no paperwork and no pressure. By the end, we’ll have a clear sense of which film is the right fit, and you’ll have a sense of whether retold. feels right for your family.

02

Before filming

We prepare - so they don't have to

Once we’ve agreed on the right film, we do the preparation work. We research their life, develop thoughtful questions tailored specifically to them, and plan the shape of the conversation.

We’ll also let you know what to gather — old photographs, letters, home videos, keepsakes — anything that might bring their story to life on screen. Your job is simply to help them feel comfortable and looked forward to the day.

You might gather:

  • Old photographs and family albums
  • Letters, cards or handwritten notes
  • Home videos or phone footage
  • Meaningful objects or keepsakes
  • Documents, certificates or newspaper clippings

03

Filming day

We come to them

We film in their home — their environment, their comfort. Their favourite chair. The photographs on the wall. The surroundings that tell as much of their story as the words do.

The day is unhurried. We break for tea, pause whenever needed, and follow the natural rhythm of the conversation. Most people are nervous at first — and forget the camera is there within minutes. There is no script, no performance, and no pressure to remember everything perfectly.

A full filming day typically runs four to six hours, though we always work at a pace that feels right.

04

After filming

We edit with care

Once filming is complete, we take everything — the conversation, the photographs, the keepsakes, the footage — and weave it into a finished film. This is where the craft happens. We edit thoughtfully, letting the best moments breathe, and shaping the story so it flows naturally from beginning to end. For a Life Story Film, the finished cut is typically 30–60 minutes. For a Story Feature Film, approximately five minutes.

05

Delivery

Something to hold, and something to share

Your finished film is delivered two ways. A secure digital link so it can be watched on any device and shared easily with family near and far. And a beautifully presented gift box with a USB — something physical to hold, to keep, and to pass down through generations.

It’s designed to feel like the keepsake it is.

The finished film

A keepsake worth keeping forever.

Every Retold film is delivered in a beautifully presented gift box alongside a digital link for easy sharing. It’s something tactile — something your family can hold, unwrap, and return to again and again. Whether it’s placed on a shelf, passed around at Christmas, or watched together on a milestone birthday, the gift box makes the film feel as special as the story inside it.
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Niki filming a short feature film with a client, telling their story.
No obligation

The first conversation costs nothing and commits you to nothing. It's simply a chance to talk about what's possible.

Entirely private

Your film belongs to your family. You decide who sees it, when they see it, and how it's shared.

Across New Zealand

We travel to families across New Zealand. Get in touch and we'll talk through what's possible for your location.

Not sure which film is right for you?

That’s what the first conversation is for. Tell us a little about your loved one and we’ll help you find the right fit.

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