Support Our Films
Karori Production develops independent films across New Zealand, Canada, and Japan.
We are drawn to stories about people caught between worlds—between cultures, loyalties, identities, beliefs, and responsibilities. Whether it is a foreign warrior searching for peace, an immigrant struggling to find his place in a new country, or ordinary people facing impossible choices, our stories explore what happens when people are forced to navigate uncertainty and change.
Many of our characters live on the edge of belonging. They are outsiders, newcomers, survivors, dreamers, and sometimes even enemies. They are often trying to find connection in places where they feel alone, and meaning in situations where there are no easy answers.
Our projects range from historical samurai dramas and action films to grounded contemporary stories inspired by real experiences. While the settings may differ, they share a common focus on identity, human connection, cultural understanding, and the difficult choices people make under pressure.
Every contribution, share, sponsorship, or message of support helps us create meaningful opportunities for artists while bringing these stories to life.
Below are our current projects in development and production. Each project has its own story, team, timeline, and funding campaign.
Thank you for being part of the journey.
CRAZY POOR ASIANS (2026–2027)
Based on true events.
A young Japanese immigrant moves to downtown Toronto hoping to build a creative career. After finding what seems like the perfect affordable apartment, he discovers that his eccentric roommate may become the biggest challenge of all.
Inspired by real experiences, CRAZY POOR ASIANS is a comedy-drama about culture shock, financial survival, loneliness, and the absurd situations many newcomers quietly endure.
Status: Development & Funding
Genres: Comedy • Drama • Slice of Life
Location: Toronto, Canada
FOREIGN (2026–2027)
Beautiful, brutal, and fragile.
A former African warrior seeks peace in a distant land after the fall of Oda Nobunaga.
When a desperate samurai is hired to hunt him down, both men are forced to confront violence, identity, and the possibility of human connection.
Set in the deep winter forests of Canada, FOREIGN combines grounded martial arts action with themes of loneliness, survival, and belonging.
Status: Crowdfunding & Pre-Production
Location: Canada
TOMOE (2027)
One Tragedy Gathers Twenty Blades.
One Battle Through Twenty Eyes.
TOMOE is an independent samurai feature film currently in development in New Zealand.
Set during a violent conflict between rival factions, the film follows a group of warriors whose lives become intertwined after a tragedy sparks a battle that neither side can fully control.
Unlike traditional samurai stories that focus on a single hero, TOMOE explores one battle through multiple perspectives. From skilled swordsmen and seasoned veterans to frightened followers and ordinary men caught in the middle, each character experiences the conflict differently.
Combining realistic martial arts, grounded action, and human drama, TOMOE aims to present a fresh perspective on the samurai genre while showcasing the landscapes and talent of New Zealand.
Status: Proof of Concept Complete
Genres: Samurai Drama • Action • Arthouse
Location: New Zealand
