Short Poppies

Watch Short Poppies

  • 2014
  • 1 Season
  • 7.7  (891)

Short Poppies is a mockumentary-style television show that aired on TV One in 2014. The show was created by Rhys Darby, known for his comedic performances in Flight of the Conchords and What We Do in the Shadows. Darby also starred in the show, playing multiple roles alongside a cast of guest stars in each episode.

The premise of Short Poppies is that it follows journalist David Farrier (played by himself) as he interviews a group of eccentric and offbeat New Zealanders in their hometowns. Each episode features a different guest star, who plays a fictional character with a unique personality and behavior.

The show's format is similar to that of a documentary, with Farrier narrating the action and conducting interviews with the townspeople. However, the show often features scripted comedic moments and surreal situations, as the guest star interacts with the real people of the town.

The guest stars include a wide range of characters, such as a self-proclaimed psychic named Mary Ledbetter (played by Darby), a struggling actor named Terry Pole (played by Jonno Roberts), and a young girl named Esther who is convinced that she is the reincarnation of Princess Diana (played by Georgia Hatzis).

The show takes a humorous look at the eccentricities and quirks of small-town life, as well as the larger-than-life personalities who inhabit these communities. Some episodes are more lighthearted and purely comedic, while others delve into deeper themes and emotions.

Critics praised Short Poppies for its witty writing, strong performances, and unique approach to the mockumentary genre. The show was also noted for its use of New Zealand landscapes and small towns as a backdrop, bringing attention to the country's often-overlooked rural areas.

Overall, Short Poppies is a quirky and entertaining show that showcases the comedic talents of a variety of actors. Its mockumentary-style approach adds a layer of realism to the absurd scenarios, making it a fun and engaging watch for fans of comedy and satire.

Short Poppies is a series that ran for 1 seasons (8 episodes) between April 4, 2014 and on TV One

Short Poppies
Filter by Source

Seasons
David Farrier
8. David Farrier
April 4, 2014
David Farrier returns to the town for a screening of what the network have made. But no one is happy with how they've been portrayed and what was supposed to be a heartfelt reunion turns into a mutiny.
Rhod Gainer
7. Rhod Gainer
April 4, 2014
Rhod Gainer is the local lawyer with no regard for the law. Played by Rhys Darby, Rhod is a car enthusiast who gets himself in more trouble than his clients.
Louise Cooper
6. Louise Cooper
April 4, 2014
Louise Cooper is a local artist and a man-eater. When David Farrier comes to town, her radar is immediately on him.
Bill Napier
5. Bill Napier
April 4, 2014
Bill Napier, the local park ranger, is better at talking to trees than people. The chaos that follows him everywhere presents some filming challenges.
Mary Ledbetter
4. Mary Ledbetter
April 4, 2014
Mary Ledbetter rules this town with an iron fist. She's the local gossip, and a day in her company will test David Farrier's patience to the limit.
Ron Taylor
3. Ron Taylor
April 4, 2014
Rhys Darby is Ron Taylor, an entrepreneur by nature whose whale watching business is in deep trouble. Ready to do anything to keep it afloat Ron is heading for a run in with the law and David Farrier may become his reluctant accomplice.
Steve Whittle
2. Steve Whittle
April 4, 2014
Is he crazy or a genius? Steve Whittle, played by Rhys Darby, runs an alien encounter support service for people like him who have been abducted by visitors from outer space.
Terry Pole
1. Terry Pole
April 4, 2014
Rhys Darby plays Terry Pole, a lifeguard and leg model. It's the day of the local sexy legs competition and Terry believes some of his competitors have resorted to sabotage to keep him from winning. Featuring Stephen Merchant.
Description
Where to Watch Short Poppies
Short Poppies is available for streaming on the TV One website, both individual episodes and full seasons. You can also watch Short Poppies on demand at Amazon Prime, Amazon, Hoopla and Tubi TV.
  • Premiere Date
    April 4, 2014
  • IMDB Rating
    7.7  (891)