Filmmaker Jensen has been nominated for his first feature film at the Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity, according to a statement from the event organizers. The nomination recognizes Jensen's independent work, which he said 'proved that you can make something independently, and it can be shown and appreciated in New Zealand and outside New Zealand.'
As of June 9, 2026, Jensen had no firm plans to celebrate the nomination but expressed hope to travel to France for the awards ceremony. The Cannes Lions festival, known for celebrating creativity in advertising and film, will take place later this month.
Jensen's feature, which has not been publicly titled in available sources, marks a milestone for independent filmmakers in New Zealand. The nomination highlights the growing global recognition of New Zealand's film industry.
