The short film Tall Hours, written and directed by OGHS alumna Sophie Black (Class of 2004) has been officially selected for this year’s New Zealand International Film Festival (NZIFF).

Screening nationwide alongside an exceptional lineup of Kiwi short films, Tall Hours will feature on the big screen across the country. Set in rural Aotearoa New Zealand, the film is an emotional exploration of grief where a father confronts the thoroughbred horse responsible for his daughter’s fatal racing accident.

After graduating from Otago Girls’ High School in 2004, Sophie earned her Bachelor of Visual Arts from the Dunedin School of Art. Over the past 15 years, she has built an impressive career across New Zealand and the UK as a director and writer, producing commercials, short films, music videos, and documentaries.

At the heart of Sophie’s work is a deep commitment to purpose. In her own words, her favorite projects are always those with "a social cause at their heart." She regularly uses her talents to shine a light on important issues, helping build awareness and understanding through storytelling.

OGHS was fortunate to welcome both Sophie back to school last year as guest speaker for our Library Day along with Pepe De Hoyos, where they generously shared their industry insights and inspired our students.

Congratulations, Sophie—we are so proud of your continued success and can’t wait to see Tall Hours on the festival circuit!