Actor Davida McKenzie on following in her mother, Miranda Harcourt’s, footsteps and working with Taika Waititi
Davida McKenzie, a rising New Zealand actor and daughter of Dame Miranda Harcourt, is gaining industry attention following the Sundance Film Festival premiere of the Australian horror feature Leviticus. McKenzie also appears in Taika Waititi’s upcoming film Klara and the Sun and recently relocated to Sydney to pursue further professional opportunities.
The Australian indie horror film Leviticus received strong reviews at Sundance. McKenzie describes the production as a smaller, location-based shoot compared to her other recent work.
What is the film Leviticus and why is it significant?
Leviticus is a queer supernatural horror film set in a conservative Australian town. It stars McKenzie alongside Jeremy Blewitt and Joe Bird.
The project served as a professional intersection for McKenzie and her mother, Dame Miranda Harcourt. According to McKenzie, Harcourt acted as a coach for younger cast members on set, including Bird, Stacy Clausen, and Blewitt.
How does Klara and the Sun impact her career?
McKenzie was cast in Klara and the Sun while still in high school. The film, directed by Oscar-winner Taika Waititi, was shot at the beginning of 2024.
The production features a high-profile cast including Jenna Ortega, Amy Adams, Natasha Lyonne, and Steve Buscemi. McKenzie noted that the scale of the studio set was an experience she hadn’t previously encountered.
How does McKenzie view her family’s influence on her acting?
McKenzie is part of a prominent New Zealand acting family and acknowledges the advantage of learning from her mother. Harcourt serves as her acting coach and assists with every audition and self-tape.
McKenzie admitted she has questioned if she pursued acting because of her family. However, she stated that increasing her experience has confirmed it is her “calling.”
Regarding comparisons to her sister, Thomasin McKenzie, the actor says she’s come to terms with the similarities. She believes there are enough roles available that she won’t compete for the same parts as her sister.
What may happen next for Davida McKenzie?
McKenzie recently moved to Sydney to seek new acting roles. She has expressed interest in working with directors Sean Baker, who directed Anora, and Greta Gerwig, the director of Barbie.
Despite these ambitions, McKenzie says she isn’t seeking a “big Hollywood break” because the spotlight is “scary.” She indicated that her primary motivation is the process of transforming into characters through costume and makeup.
Leviticus is scheduled for release in New Zealand theaters on June 18.
Frequently Asked Questions
When will Leviticus be released in New Zealand?
The film is out in New Zealand theaters on June 18.
Who directed the film Klara and the Sun?
The film was directed by Taika Waititi.
Who provides acting coaching for Davida McKenzie?
Her mother, Dame Miranda Harcourt, serves as her acting coach and reader for auditions.
Do you think family mentorship provides a critical advantage for new actors entering the industry?