A new documentary examining the political life and legacy of former Alliance leader Jim Anderton will premiere at the New Zealand International Film Festival this weekend.

‘Last Man Standing’, directed by Gerd Pohlmann, traces Anderton’s opposition to the sweeping free market reforms introduced by the Fourth Labour Government during the late 1980s.

The 122 minute documentary was co-produced by former Alliance Cabinet minister Matt Robson and New Zealand filmmaker Alister Barry.

It follows Anderton’s departure from Labour, his role in establishing the NewLabour Party and the Alliance, and his influence within the Labour-led coalition government formed after the 1999 election.

The film also examines policies associated with Anderton and the Alliance, including the establishment of Kiwibank, the introduction of paid parental leave, the freezing of interest on student loans and greater government involvement in regional economic development.

Robson said the documentary would introduce Anderton’s political story to a new generation facing rising living costs and economic uncertainty.

“Jim famously noted that he didn’t leave the Labour Party, the Labour Party caucus left him,” Robson said.

“He proved that you could achieve principled change, rather than just roll over and go with the prevailing orthodoxy of the times.”

Robson said there had been renewed interest in the political principles promoted by Anderton, particularly among younger people.

The Alliance Party, which has been re-established ahead of the 2026 general election, said it intended to draw on Anderton’s legacy during its campaign.

Alliance leader Victor Billot said the party would advocate for tax reform, public ownership of essential assets, free primary healthcare and increased public housing.

“Jim Anderton showed that when working people are offered a principled, people-first choice, they respond,” Billot said.

“Today, New Zealanders are once again being crushed by a severe cost-of-living crisis and public service cuts, while the political establishment refuses to offer real alternatives.”

‘Last Man Standing’ will premiere at Auckland’s SkyCity Theatre on Saturday, August 1 at 3.30pm, before screening in other centres during the festival.