Review: “Caterpillar” is a searing multi-generational portrait of womanhood

“Caterpillar” follows a family of three women who don’t always get along well because of their generational differences. Huia (Lisa Harrow), the grandmother, seeks an escape from home and fulfil a long-time dream of traveling to Mexico; Maxine (Marta Dussledorp), the mother, is a filmmaker on the verge of making her next big film—a project that will send her away from home; and Cassie (Anais Shand), the young daughter, searches for comfort and acceptance amid teenagerhood.

The film is the feature-length directorial debut of Chelsie Preston Crayford, heavily inspired by her experiences growing up with her mother-filmmaker Dame Gaylene Preston and grandmother Tui. By grappling with the personal, “Caterpillar” becomes a warm and deeply humane film that is proudly honest and vulnerable. It is anything but a timid film.

Crayford orchestrates her lead trio mostly in individual quests, making decisions for themselves without consulting the others. This has caused constant rifts at home when they’re together, but it’s clear that despite their differences, they only need someone to empathize with them. Crayford has a good eye for presenting this nuance on-screen and is the secret weapon to why the film largely works. I feel this is also the reason why I’m particularly fond of “Caterpillar’s” silent moments, be it Huia lying by the grass to ponder the view of a butterfly in the sky or Cassie standing still in front of the mirror, realizing that acceptance should come from within.

“Caterpillar” is a searing portrait of being a woman across different generations. It is an impressive feat, considering films that follow the same narrative often come from one generation’s perspective. It arrives this May, in time for Mother’s Day celebrations, and I can’t recommend a more fitting film. Seeing the performances of Lisa Harrow, Marta Dussledorp and Anais Shand alone is worth the watch. 

“Caterpillar” opens in New Zealand cinemas nationwide on 14 May 2026.

Featured images from Madman Films.