Life story films & video memoirs Christchurch

Your voice.
Your memories.
Your legacy.

Life stories deserve to be captured on film. We create intimate, personal documentaries that preserve your loved one’s voice, presence, and legacy for generations to come.

Everyone's story is worth telling

There’s a saying that a person lives as long as their name is spoken. It’s a reminder that our stories carry on through the people who remember us, who speak about us, who pass our experiences forward.

Filming someone’s life story is more than just capturing memories – it’s a way of honoring who they are and ensuring their voice continues to echo through time.

Niki filming a short feature film with a client, telling their story.

Preserve what matters

Every family is different. Every story is unique. Choose the film that fits.

Your Voice

Story Feature Film

A short-form documentary focused on one specific story, achievement, relationship or event. A life’s work. A community milestone. A passion that defined them. Powerful, focused and beautifully made.

Private digital delivery, beautifully presented.

Prompted by: A specific story worth capturing. Community or organisational milestones. A defining chapter of their life.

Your Memory

Life Story Film

Their memories and experiences shape who they became. A warm, unhurried conversation covering their whole life, from childhood and family to work, wisdom and everything in between. Woven through with old photographs, home videos, letters and keepsakes. The most intimate of gifts.

Prompted by: Milestone birthdays. Anniversaries. Health changes. A gift from adult children to their parents.

Your Legacy

Terminal Journey Film

A deeply personal film for families facing terminal illness. A final chapter told in their own words, for the people who love them most. A gift that lasts beyond a lifetime.

Prompted by: Terminal diagnosis. Leaving something behind for children and grandchildren.

Real stories, real people

John's story - A life story film

John wanted to leave behind a piece of himself for his two daughters — a way for them to truly know him, not just as their father, but as the man he became through a life well lived. His face lit up when he spoke about his years on a Navy ship, the distant places he travelled, and the lifelong friendships he formed along the way. Through laughter, memories and quiet reflection, John shared a legacy that now lives on in his own words. It was an honour to help him tell it.

Photos get lost. A voice on film lasts forever.

Video lasts longer than memory. Photos fade, but a voice on film keeps someone present across generations.

of families wish they had captured stories sooner
%

Wishing they’d captured stories sooner

more emotional connection with video versus photographs alone
x

Than photographs alone across generations

Forever

how long these films matter — passed down across generations

Passed down and watched for decades

How it works

Simple. Warm. Unhurried.

01

Discovery Call

We talk with you about your loved one — their life, their stories, what matters most. No paperwork. Just a conversation.

02

We Prepare

We develop thoughtful questions tailored to their life. We ask you to gather photos, keepsakes and letters — anything that brings their story to life.

03

Film Day

We come to them — their home, their favourite chair. A relaxed, natural conversation. Most people forget the camera is there within minutes.

04

Your Film

We edit everything into a beautiful 60–90 minute film, weaving in photos, videos and keepsakes. Delivered privately. Yours to share with family forever.

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.

Common Questions

Everything you need to know

Most filming sessions last between 3 and 4 hours, but we always work at a pace that feels comfortable for you. The conversation unfolds naturally, allowing us to capture your story authentically. The final edited film typically runs between 60 to 90 minutes.

It’s completely natural to feel nervous before being on camera, but those nerves often fade quickly once the conversation starts. Remember, this is not a performance; at Retold, we genuinely interested in your story, which turns the experience into a relaxed and friendly chat. Most people find that they forget the camera is even there!

Absolutely! We can weave in old photographs, letters, videos, and keepsakes throughout your film. These items tell a story of their own, and when combined with your voice, they transform into more than just mementos. These elements add context and depth, they enrich your narrative and bring your memories to life.

Entirely your choice. Most families keep these films private, shared only with loved ones. Some choose to make them public. You decide who sees it and when.

Yes. We serve families across New Zealand. Get in touch and we’ll talk through what’s possible for your location.

It’s one of the most meaningful gifts you can give — and one of the most common reasons families come to us. A life story film is something your whole family will treasure for generations. The response is almost always tears of gratitude.

You receive the final film on a secure digital download format and USB drive.  We keep backup copies at retold. for a limited time.  Nothing is used without your permission.

Every life holds moments worth keeping. Whether it’s a lifetime of memories, a story that defined someone, or words that need to be said before time runs out. We’re here to help you capture it.