The much anticipated Samoān Kiwi film Tinā received its world premier at the Hawai’i international Film Festival. The film, directed by Miki Magasiva, will be released across New Zealand in February 2025.
Tinā received an enthusiastic response during its sold-out screening at the festival. Director Miki Magasiva expressed his excitement: “Having Tinā premiere at the Hawaii International Film Festival has been incredible. After years of crafting this story for my family and community, I can’t wait to share it with everyone in Aotearoa.”
The film tells the story of Mareta Percival, a Samoan teacher coping with the loss of her daughter during the Christchurch earthquakes, who unexpectedly becomes a substitute teacher at an elite school.
Award winning actor and director Anapela Polataivao plays the lead role, alongside newcomer Antonia Robinson with a supporting cast that includes Beulah Koale and Nicole Whippy.
Tinā features a powerful choir led by Tuilagi Dr. Igelese Ete, known for his work on The Lord of the Rings and Disney’s Moana.
The film is written, directed, and produced by Miki and is funded by the New Zealand Film Commission and distributed by Madman Entertainment in New Zealand and Australia.
