An exciting new rugby documentary has just been released, starring none other than Oscar winning film maker, actor and comedian Taika Waititi. The series entitled ‘Tour de Rugby’, brings to light the stunning stories of French rugby culture, and can be watched exclusively on NZR+.
A native New Zealander, Waititi is from the Raukokore region of the North Island and developed a love for rugby from an early age. The actor and filmmaker is known for his work in the Marvel superhero movies ‘Thor: Ragnarak’ and ‘Thor: Love and Thunder’, where he provides the voice for beloved Kiwi character ‘Korg’.
Commenting on the documentary, Waititi said: “Join me as I discover a little bit more about French culture. We are doing food, we are doing art, but more importantly we’re going to explore their relationship with the game we love: rugby.”
There is no better time to watch this documentary, as the eyes of the game turn to France for the Rugby World Cup. Les Bleus are amongst the front-runners to win the Web Ellis Trophy, in what would mark a first-time accomplishment for Fabien Galthie’s side. France fans are breathing a sigh of relief, after news that their talismanic captain Antoine Dupont is set to make his return, after a cheek bone injury suffered against Namibia.
The Toulouse scrum half is reportedly set to wear a structural mask on his return, which is fitting in being his nation’s resident rugby superhero. Waititi’s documentary sees him travel across France, for an entertaining adventure into the history of rugby in the home of this year’s Rugby World Cup. He is joined by esteemed guests, including All Blacks legends Jerome Kaino, Andrew Mehrtens, and Rudi Wulf, as well as revered French forward Sebastien Chabal and Michelin-starred chef Mauro Colagreco.
A devout All Blacks fan, Waititi will travel through France with two stars of the black jersey’s past.
“What the All Blacks mean to me, is a chance to be among the gods.” Waititi said.
“They are a team who have mythological status and I think for any New Zealander; little boys, little girls and us as adults, there is something magical, otherworldly and godly about watching this team and the miracles that they somehow manage to achieve.”
Speaking about his favourite memory when watching the All Blacks, the 48-year-old said:
“Going to the 1987 (Rugby World Cup) match against Italy with my father and watching the great John Kirwin score a full length field try”
“They are kind of like Spidermen, they have the ability to keep getting up, when you knock them down they keep getting up, it’s the tenacity and the endurance and the ability to keep going and somehow miraculously find a win even when the odds are heavily stacked against them.”
“I love rugby because there is a role for everybody in the team, it doesn’t matter how big or how small you are, or what your personality is, there is always a place for you. It’s a very inclusive sport.”
‘Tour de Rugby’ Episode synopsis:
Episode 1: Taika touches down in the enchanting town of Menton, France. He meets up with former All Black flanker, Jerome Kaino, armed with an intriguing “special package.” Together, they pay homage at the sacred resting place of the rugby game’s trailblazing pioneer, followed by a delectable indulgence in the finest culinary delights the locale has to offer.
Episode 2: Taika finds himself amidst the romantic allure of Paris, France. His rendezvous awaits with ex All Black maestro of goal kicking, Andrew Mehrtens, as they converge for an intensive goal kicking training session. The pair then embark on a leisurely drive through the city’s streets, cruising in a Citroën, accompanied by none other than the legendary French rugby icon, Sebastian Chabal.
Episode 3: Taika embarks on a journey to the idyllic landscapes of the South of France, where he converges with former All Black, Rudi Wulf. They find themselves engaged in an exhilarating bout of beach Touch Rugby. Post-match, Taika and Rudi venture into the world of scents, exploring the fragrant realm of a perfumery guided by a true expert. Their aromatic adventure culminates in the rare privilege of crafting their very own cologne blends.