User reviews

What starts as a routine search warrant for a small cannabis production turns into New Zealand's most horrific domestic event in recent years. When homeowner Jan Molenaar returns from a morning walk to police in his house, he reacts badly. Brandishing a gun, he demands the three police leave immediately which they comply with haste. Once the police reach the footpath, Molenaar fires upon them, killing one and beginning a 53- hour siege. Molenaar's six years' experience in the New Zealand Army reserve and his enormous arsenal help him defend his position as Napier and NZ authorities try to ensure the safety of the neighbours caught in the crossfire.

The tele-movie has been commended for sticking close to the real story, and retelling the facts that were warped by the live media coverage. Police officers involved and the widow of slain policeman Lee Snee contributed to background info for the script writers ensuring the story stays true to the actual event. Special praise to the brilliant final minutes, a tribute to Len Snee.

Given Hollywood's obsession with gun-toting heroes, this is quite the refreshing change. It's structured around a cannabis bust that escalated into an armed siege in New Zealand. New Zealand's police officers aren't armed and aren't used to dealing with well armed, determined, trained gunmen.

As the drama unfolds you get a sense of how initial shocked chaos developed into a more determined and disciplined approach. There's a decent ensemble cast and it doesn't dwell too much on one point of view.

Well worth the hour and a half.