Airdate: Kindred

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people should be aware that this post may contain images, voices and names of deceased persons.

Feature length documentary, Kindred, will premiere on NITV during National Reconciliation Week.

Written and directed by Adrian Russell Wills (Redfern Now, Wentworth, RFDS) and Gillian Moody (Family Rules, Black Divaz), the 90-minute film is a journey into the emotional landscape of family, love and loss experienced by two close friends, both Aboriginal, who were adopted by white families and have connected back with their bloodline families.

Twenty-five years after making their first film together, Moody and Russell Wills turned to each other to navigate the emotional rollercoaster of coming to grips with their childhood adoptions. This is the story of Kindred – two best friends who tell their stories of supporting each other while reconnecting their bloodlines.

The documentary consists of archival footage, dramatic recreations and candid interviews with family members and the documentary subjects themselves. Shot in numerous locations across Australia, Kindred weaves together two personal narratives while exploring themes of family, identity, culture, belonging, racism, trauma and more.

Marissa McDowell, a proud Wiradyuri woman and Head of Commissions at NITV, said: “We’re thrilled to share this incredible documentary from Adrian and Gillian, which shares a story that many Indigenous peoples can relate to. We hope that the powerful messages shared in Kindred connect with all Australian audiences, particularly during National Reconciliation Week, a time of reflection and learning.“

Writers and Directors, Adrian Russell Wills and Gillian Moody, said: “We invite you into our story of friendship and the bond that brought us together, being adopted. Kindred explores what it feels like living in two worlds, one black and one white. It looks at the importance of discovering your place in the world and realising that home and love can truly be found in the people and places your heart connects to. Kindred comes from our hearts and the generous hearts of many in our family. We hope you enjoy it.”

Angela Bates, Head of First Nations at Screen Australia said: “Kindred filmmakers, Gillian Moody and Adrian Wells have crafted a moving documentary that invites audiences to embark on their deeply personal journey of discovering their place in the world. Through their lens, we witness the strength of friendship, unconditional love, the power of cultural connection, and identity. We’re incredibly proud that we were able to support Gillian and Adrian to tell their story – the way they wanted to, and for Australian audiences to gain a deeper understanding of First Nations experiences.”

Head of Screen NSW, Kyas Hepworth, said: “This is such a relevant, personal, and deeply moving documentary that examines self-identity, family connection, love and loss, and is a story that many First Nations people around the country know too well. Documentaries like this are important to examine and reflect on our nation’s history, and Screen NSW was privileged to support this film.”

Kindred is a Kalori Productions production for NITV. Principal production investment from Screen Australia’s First Nations Department in association with Screen NSW. Financed with support from NITV. Produced by Gillian Moody and Tom Zubrycki.

Sunday 2 June at 8.30pm on NITV.