The Dark Horse is an inspiring, uplifting true New Zealand story in the mould of Whale Rider, Shine, The Worlds Fastest Indian and Boy.

Directed by James Napier Robertson and Produced by Tom Hern at 4 Knights Film Ltd.

Set on the East Coast against the backdrop of Maori culture, chess and gang life, The Dark Horse explores powerful themes of love, loyalty, community and belonging.

About the Character

Genesis Potini, a highly charismatic Maori man and former speed-
chess champion afflicted with mental illness, struggles against
the odds to help the chess club he formed succeed and the street kids who joined it have a future.

When we meet him, he is recovering from a severe bi-polar episode. He is inspired to form a new chess club, The Eastern Knights in part to help struggling kid’s in the community and in part, to heal his mind.

His goal, to lead them to the New Zealand National Chess Champs in Auckland, just months later. As Genesis and The Knights progress, he is challenged by the limitations of his mental illness, the gangs that want the kids as members, and whether or not he is actually capable to deal with the responsibilities that come with being a mentor.


In a world where many kids have no role models and only jail or a gang life to look forward to, this is a man needing to triumph over his own adversity who manages to offer them a better life.

Auditions being held in Auckland: 16th, 17th and 18th May
Auditions being held in Wellington: 21st May

Self Tests accepted
Self Tests - Deadline Wednesday 23rd May 2012
We will accept all tests as links, DVD's or digi tape

Availability: 6 week period over September/October 2012

Shoot location: Greater Auckland area - Main shoot / Gisborne - 5 day shoot