Never Look Away: Movie Review

Lucy Lawless shifts behind the camera in this documentary about Kiwi 1990s CNN camerawoman Margaret Moth.

It's a fiery piece that's initially somewhat hamstrung by the fact its own subject very rarely appears on camera, and is spoken only about by others whose paths have crossed. Worryingly, that veers close to hagiography in parts early on, but Lawless initiates a flawless shift which moves the story into various conflict zones and away from former lovers discussing various trysts.

It's here the movie comes alive, and Moth's desire to blaze a trail becomes evident. From going where she's told not to to being recognised by those stuck in warzones, Moth becomes a legendary figure for her humanity and the impact she has on others. 

But while fellow war correspondents use words to explain what Moth meant to them, the filmmakers use compelling imagery to provide a portrait of a woman making her way in a man's world. From model animations during key moments to strong imagery, Never Look Away builds the pieces carefully, cleverly and cautiously as it unfurls her story.

Perhaps frustratingly, issues from her childhood are unable to be explored further due to a lack of narrative from the subject, but drawings from the younger days hint at the horrors Margaret had to endure - gaps filled in by insight from family members. It's no surprise Moth became a created character in some ways, hidden under black eyeliner and Joan Jett-styled hair to escape something from her youth.

Yet as the film hurtles toward its tragic end, it reveals more of an emotional edge as one incident shatters everything Moth has ever known, fought and strived for. It's here Lawless takes the foot off the directorial gas and lets the humanity come forth - as a result, what transpires is compelling and horrific in extremis.

Ultimately, Never Look Away is a film which is balanced and brutal in parts. It shows the divide between men and women and engages immensely throughout.

This film is playing as part of the 2024 Whanau Marama New Zealand International Film Festival. For more details, visit nziff.co.nz