Vigil (film)

Vigil is a 1984 New Zealand drama film directed by Vincent Ward. It was the first New Zealand film to be selected for the official competition at the Cannes Film Festival.

The film tells the story of Toss, a young girl living on an isolated farm in rural New Zealand, and the dramatic changes that occur in her life after a stranger arrives following the death of her father. The themes explored include loss, grief, the clash between childhood innocence and adult realities, and the power of nature.

The film is notable for its distinctive visual style, utilizing the stark beauty of the New Zealand landscape and a muted color palette to create a sense of isolation and unease. It is considered a significant work in New Zealand cinema and helped to establish Ward's reputation as a visionary filmmaker. The cast includes Penelope Stewart, Bill Kerr, Fiona Kay, and Frank Whitten.