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Niki Caro

What's After the Movie

Niki Caro

Nikola Jean Caro MNZM, better known as Niki Caro, born 20 September 1966, is a highly renowned New Zealand film, television, and music video director, as well as screenwriter. She gained immense recognition for her movie Whale Rider in 2002, which received substantial acclaim and won numerous international film festival awards. Caro made a massive leap in her career when she directed the 2020 live-action adaptation of Disney's Mulan, making her the second female and second New Zealand director hired by Disney for a film project with a budget exceeding $100 million. Beyond feature films, Caro's portfolio also includes music videos, commercials, television dramas among others.

Caro's journey into film was unconventional with interest initially being in metal sculptures, and no formal training in filmmaking. She began by self-teaching from narrative film books, writing drafts for scripts that her mother would later type. It was only after being signed by a production company to create television series Another Country that her career truly began. Despite her modest beginnings and no prior experience in directing, Caro quickly distinguished herself in the industry, with her works even earning nominations at prestigious award functions like the Cannes Film Festival. Much of her early work hones in on depicting women's search for life goals, relationships, and desires. She has also made documentaries, applying her storytelling skills both to fact and fiction alike. Reflecting on her career evolution, Caro recounts experiences directing commercials, working on TV dramas, and making the shift to feature films. Her continual success seems testament to her talent, vision, and adaptability as a director.

6 movies
2 nominations

Biography, Career & Filmography

Learn more about Niki Caro, including a detailed biography, career timeline, personal life insights, and complete filmography. Discover how Niki Caro rose to fame, their major roles, industry impact, and personal milestones in the world of film.


Given Name: Nikola Jean Caro

Born: Wellington, New Zealand

Citizenship: New Zealand

Birthday: September 20, 1966

Occupations: Film director, film producer, screenwriter

Years Active: 1984-present

Children: 2

Spouses: Andrew Lister

Awards and Nominations Received by Niki Caro

Explore awards

Explore the awards, honors, and nominations Niki Caro has earned across their acting career. From prestigious wins to critical acclaim, see how their talent has been recognized by the film industry and major award bodies.


46th Saturn Awards 2021

Nomination

Best Film Director

Mulan

2002 Toronto International Film Festival Awards 2002

Win

People's Choice Award

Whale Rider

Career Timeline

Track the complete movie timeline of Niki Caro, including all film releases, career breakthroughs, and notable roles. Follow their journey from early performances to recent blockbusters and upcoming projects.


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