Dame Valerie Adams' extraordinary journey from hardship to stardom will be documented in an upcoming feature, after the trailer for the film was released today.
More Than Gold will detail the Kiwi Olympic champion's inspirational rise to shot put glory, and all the many struggles along the way.
"I want people to laugh, I want people to cry, I want people to be with me in the serious moments but then I want people to celebrate," Dame Valerie said. "I've told my story, my own way."
Much of the documentary will centre around her journey to the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, after the birth of her children and two major surgeries.
Film director Briar March is delighted to share Dame Valerie's story, and hopes it will inspire the viewers.
"There is so much more to Dame Valerie's story than you would expect," he said. "She has overcome significant challenges to achieve her dreams.
"Dame Valerie Adams: More than Gold is a film about what matters most and looks at the strength it takes to look beyond our limitations and circumstances and reach our fullest potential.
"Dame Valerie is a role model, and I am genuinely excited by the positive impact her story will have on audiences everywhere."
More Than Gold producer Leanne Pooley is excited to share Dame Valerie's almost unbelievable story.
"I'm very proud to have made an honest film about a Kiwi icon that goes way beyond the ordinary 'sports' documentary. Dame Valerie opened herself up, sharing a story of resilience and tenacity that is almost incomprehensible. If it was fiction, no one would believe it."
The documentary will be released by Transmission Films and Eight Productions in association with Te Tumu Whakaata Taonga – the New Zealand Film Commission (NZFC).
Dame Valerie Adams: More Than Gold opens in cinemas on October 20.
