The next time that you hear “New Zealand Director” don’t automatically assume that the filmmaker in question is Peter Jackson.

Niki Caro has crafted memorable films like Whale Rider and North Country, but her profile will rise after her latest movie McFarland, USA.

I sat down with the soft-spoken artist to discuss her experience with this tale of inspiration and empathy, and much more.

Watch our interview below and don’t miss the fantastic McFarland, USA, in theaters Feb. 20.

Editing credit: NY-based videographer & editor Carlos Otero.

Inspired by the 1987 true story, “McFarland, USA” follows novice runners from McFarland, an economically challenged town in California’s farm-rich Central Valley, as they give their all to build a cross-country team under the direction of Coach Jim White (Kevin Costner), a newcomer to their predominantly Latino high school.