Remembering Forgotten Silver: The film that fooled a nation

by Costa Botes

In late 1995, New Zealand was convulsed by a national controversy. The nation had overnight discovered a new national hero, celebrated in an incredible documentary by film-makers Costa Botes & Peter Jackson. The revelation of this hitherto forgotten man's unbelievable feats swelled the hearts of proud Kiwis across the land. But when the news broke that the entire thing was a bit of fun, a practical joke, joy quickly turned to anger, and thousands of patriotic viewers threatened to boycot television forever. The term 'mockumentary had not been coined yet. Today Forgotten Silver is regarded as one of the finest examples of the genre yet made. In this book, co-creator and director Costa Botes not only tells all about its conception, and production; but delves into the extraordinary reaction that followed.

382 pages, Kindle Edition

Published April 13, 2025

Reviews

[Sarah McMullan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved it. A thorough history of the mockumentary Peter Jackson directed -a first feature which people forget was a collaboration with the author. Its also an interesting look at how PJ worked then, and how he's changed over the years (the book doesnt go into great detail - its not about PJ - but you get an impression). For non NZers, the author is a celebrated filmmaker (mainly documentary) in his own right; a lecturer in Film at Victoria University Wellington and an accomplished musician. Its always intriguing to find our what creative people do when the cameras aren't rolling, and there are no shortage of stories - personal & professional here.

4.5 stars

[Lauren Roche · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is part personal memoir and part the story of Forgotten Silver - the wonderful mockumentary that fooled a nation.
Costa is a great writer. I loved his childhood recollection of riding on a donkey, facing rearward. His path to a new place spent looking backwards. It’s a beautiful metaphor.

[Jordan King]

Reviewing for Empire Magazine.