Prime Minister

What’s it about?

Prime Minister is a documentary about Jacinda Ardern, who was Prime Minister of New Zealand from 2017 to 2023. It follows her rise to the leadership of the New Zealand Labour Party, becoming Prime Minister in her 30’s, and pregnancy and parenting while in Office. The film focuses on her handling of major events like the Christchurch Mosque shootings, the COVID-19 pandemic, and her eventual resignation.

The facts 

• Directed by Michelle Walshe (Richie McCaw: Chasing Great) and Lindsay Utz
• English language
• Runtime: 101 minutes

Why did it get this rating? 

This film was cross-rated by the Film and Video Labelling Body. You can find out more about cross-rating here.

Violence

The film includes real footage of significant national events. This includes coverage of the aftermath of the Christchurch Mosque terror attacks (with no objectionable or illegal content shown), as well as footage of the 2022 protest occupation at Parliament. Scenes of conflict include people throwing objects at Police, setting fires and being physically restrained during arrest. 

Offensive language

Offensive language is used occasionally in the film, including the word f*ck.

Mental health 

The documentary also weaves in themes of anxiety, grief and loss, particularly tied to national tragedies such as the Christchurch terror attacks, the COVID-19 pandemic, and the Whakaari/White Island disaster, showing how people and communities grappled with trauma and uncertainty.

When content stays with you: 

We all have our boundaries, and it’s completely okay if something you’ve watched is weighing on your mind. If certain content lingers with you, consider having a chat with friends or whānau to debrief about what you’ve just seen. But if you’re still feeling affected, please reach out to any of the following helplines for support.  

• 1737
• Safe to talk
• Lifeline
• Youthline

Further information 

• Why are ratings and content warnings important for me and my whānau?