Leanne Pooley is one of New Zealand’s most accomplished documentary filmmakers, having directed over 20 films. Leanne has made documentaries for major broadcasters including the BBC and PBS, and her documentaries have screened in more than 100 countries. Her work includes “Beyond the Edge” a 3D feature film that was a runner-up for the People's Choice Award for Documentary at the Toronto International Film Festival, and “Topp Twins – Untouchable Girls” which won 21 International Awards including Audience Awards at the Toronto International Film Festival, the Melbourne International Film Festival, and the Gothenburg International Film Festival, amongst others. It also won Best Feature at the New Zealand Film & TV Awards, and reached nearly $2 million at the New Zealand box office, making it the most successful New Zealand documentary of all time. In 2011 Leanne’s work was recognized by the New Zealand Arts Foundation, and she was made a New Zealand Arts Laureate. She now serves as a judge for the International Emmy Awards.
