Heavenly Pop Hits: The Flying Nun Story

Documentary about the influential New Zealand indie label Flying Nun Records. This documentary tells the story of the legendary Flying Nun music label up to its 21st birthday. The label became associated with the 'Dunedin Sound': a catch-all term for a sprawl of DIY, post-punk, warped, jangly guitar-pop. The Guardian: "[it's] as if being on the other side of the world meant the music was played upside down". Featured are interviews with founder Roger Shepherd and many key players, the spats and the glory. The label's influence on the American indie scene is noted, and Pavement's Stephen Malkmus covers The Verlaines' 'Death and the Maiden'.

Directed by Mitchell Hawkes, Heavenly Pop Hits: The Flying Nun Story leans on a strong ensemble — Hugh Sundae, Martin Phillips, Chris Knox — to carry a story that balances spectacle with character.

The film landed with audiences for its craft and performances, and remains one of the most talked-about documentary titles of 2002.