Behind the Bull 2000
Behind the Bull (2000) dives into the fascinating aftermath of the infamous Forgotten Silver hoax, which fooled New Zealand audiences in 1995.
Director: Costa Botes
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Behind the Bull (2000) about?
This short documentary uncovers the making of the 1995 mockumentary Forgotten Silver, which claimed to tell the story of an early filmmaking pioneer named Colin McKenzie. Initially presented as a genuine documentary, it sparked widespread debate—and outrage—when audiences realized they'd been fooled. Behind the Bull examines how the elaborate prank was constructed and the reactions it provoked.
Who directed Behind the Bull?
Costa Botes directed Behind the Bull, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the Forgotten Silver controversy he originally crafted.
Who stars in Behind the Bull?
The documentary features Peter Jackson, Costa Botes, Victoria Beynon-Cole, Thomas Robins, and Brian Scadden as key contributors to the Forgotten Silver hoax.
Is Behind the Bull (2000) worth watching?
For fans of cinema history, prank culture, or Peter Jackson's early work, Behind the Bull is a delightful deep dive into one of New Zealand's most infamous media hoaxes. While it's not a traditional drama, its meta-narrative and sharp insights make it engaging. At just 22 minutes, it's a quick but rewarding watch for those curious about how fiction and reality collide.
How long is Behind the Bull?
Behind the Bull has a runtime of 22 minutes.
Behind the Bull (2000): The Inside Story of the Forgotten Silver Hoax
Behind the Bull (2000) dives into the fascinating aftermath of the infamous Forgotten Silver hoax, which fooled New Zealand audiences in 1995. Directed by Costa Botes, this documentary peels back the layers of the elaborate mockumentary, revealing how Colin McKenzie's fictional tale of a pioneering filmmaker became a cultural phenomenon. With interviews from key conspirator Peter Jackson and insights from the original creative team, the film blends humor, irony, and a touch of nostalgia to explore the line between fiction and reality. The atmosphere is both investigative and playful, capturing the public's reaction—from disbelief to delight—as the truth unraveled.
As a follow-up to the 1995 prank, Behind the Bull offers a behind-the-scenes look at the making of Forgotten Silver while examining the broader implications of media deception. The documentary keeps viewers engaged with sharp storytelling and candid reflections from those involved, making it a must-watch for fans of cinema history and meta-commentary. Its concise runtime of 22 minutes ensures a tight, punchy narrative that leaves audiences both entertained and slightly skeptical.