Courtesy of Te Tumu Whakaata Taonga New Zealand Film Commission

Synopsis: This Town follows one man's attempt to return to normality, and one woman's utter determination to prevent it. Through the contradictions, intensity and absurdity of their ambitions, an extraordinary comedy emerges.

Five years ago, Sean's (David White) family was murdered. Charged but acquitted of the crime, he is now the most infamous person in the small community of This Town - his whole life defined by this single event. Despite everything, Sean's ready to move on, starting where any millennial would: by stepping into the world of digital dating. Pam (Robyn Malcolm) was the officer in charge of the investigation. Tormented by the murders and how a guilty man walked free, she's been soured against the justice system. Abandoning the police force, Pam has started a small petting zoo and adventure park, but is unable to move on until justice ... and an alpaca or two ... have been served.

Now, for the first time since 'it' happened, Sean's world is blossoming. He meets Casey, a young woman whose faith in his innocence lends new force to his struggle for an ordinary life. Together they push at the limits of love after murder. Yet with every step forward, Pam lures us back to the case. She's hoping for the one clue that will have Sean back in court faster than she can get to the bottom of her home made waterslide.

Charting the sublimely awkward aftermath of small town tragedy, This Town is a touchingly twisted comedy about what it means to reinvent yourself.

Festivals: Seattle International Film Festival; Tallin Black Nights Film Festival