Experiencing Interruptions?

Smoke and Mirrors

On the night of her 21st birthday, outgoing college student Mia Baxter vanishes after an unexpected incident leaves her shocked to the core. Unfamiliar with one another, four students from different walks of life receive mysterious notes regarding their connection with her. Suddenly thrown together, the four students must confront one another about that night in order to find Mia.

  • Bailey Harding
    Director
  • Bailey Harding
    Writer
  • Fiona Ellett
    Producer
  • Bailey Harding
    Producer
  • Alaina Pitt
    Key Cast
    "Riley Walker"
  • Bethany Miller
    Key Cast
    "Mia Baxter"
  • Ian Cadwallader
    Key Cast
    "Blake Baxter"
  • Leonardo Gunter
    Key Cast
    "Hero Flynn"
  • Vaishalee Bhana
    Key Cast
    "Carmen Ramirez"
  • Ben Coyle
    Editor
  • Antonio Limz
    Cinematographer
  • Cormac Griffin
    Sound Designer
  • Joshi Cho
    Lighting Department
  • Bronte Ennis
    Lighting Department
  • Natalie Chan
    1st Camera Assitant
  • Vanessa Howe
    1st Assistant Director
  • Liam Manson
    VFX Artist
  • Cherrie Bartolome
    Production Designer
  • Aidan Vaughan
    Production Designer
  • Corban Coventry
    Production Designer
  • Project Type:
    Short, Student, Television, Web / New Media, Other
  • Genres:
    Mystery, Drama, LGBTQ, Teen, Whodunnit, Romance, NewZealand, College, Students, ComingOfAge, Thriller
  • Runtime:
    13 minutes 39 seconds
  • Completion Date:
    October 24, 2021
  • Production Budget:
    6,000 NZD
  • Country of Origin:
    New Zealand
  • Country of Filming:
    New Zealand
  • Language:
    English
  • Shooting Format:
    RED
  • Aspect Ratio:
    1.78:1
  • Film Color:
    Color
  • First-time Filmmaker:
    Yes
  • Student Project:
    Yes - Massey University
Director - Bailey Harding
Director Statement

As the director and writer of Smoke & Mirrors, my overall aim was to produce, as well as create, a contemporary mystery with elements of drama and realism. I have always been drawn to storylines revolving around stereotypical characters each with their own quirks, unexpected betrayals, secrets, relatable friendships, and jaw dropping plot-twists. From this, I was inspired to create a narrative that would speak strongly to my own generation, while incorporating elements from my favourite films and TV shows.

This has been the opportunity of a lifetime. I was fortunate enough to work alongside a group of unique and creative individuals who understood my personal goals for this project, as well as our collaborative decisions. Each department ensured that every sound, visualisation on screen, colour, costume, camera angle and lighting were met to my expectation right down to the final draft. And, we can’t wait to continue this journey.