The trailer for the new Kiwi film ‘Tinā’ has officially dropped, and it’s shaping up to be both wholesome and emotional.
The story follows Samoan teacher Mareta Percival (played by Anapela Polataivao), who’s navigating life after the tragic death of her daughter in the Christchurch earthquakes.
Immediately, you get a feel for Mareta's relationship with her daughter. In one scene, Mareta helps her daughter warm up her singing voice over the phone, not long before her passing.
Mareta reluctantly steps into a relief teacher role at an elite private school, where she’s introduced to a group of students who could really use some guidance, love, and a bit of inspiration.
She finds herself lighting a spark in these kids, pushing them to compete in the Big Sing choir competition - chucking in a few laughs for us along the way.
Alongside Polataivao, the cast features newcomer Antonia Robinson, Beulah Koale ('Hawai’i Five-0', 'Next Goal Wins') and Nicole Whippy ('Outrageous Fortune', 'Shortland Street') and it’s all written and directed by the talented Miki Magasiva.
The film has come hot on the heels of its emotional world premiere at the Hawai’i International Film Festival.
Miki reflected on the overwhelming love ‘Tinā’ received, saying: “I was overwhelmed by the alofa Hawai’i showed us and will always cherish the emotional responses, celebrating our film - a film made and set here in New Zealand.”
“So many of our people have given us their Aroha in making this film,” he added. “They’ve been waiting patiently, and I can’t wait to finally share it with them and the rest of Aotearoa early next year.
A major standout set for the film is its music, featuring a powerful choir led by the famous Choir Master and Music Arranger Tuilagi Dr. Igelese Ete, known for his work on ‘The Lord of the Rings’ and Disney’s ‘Moana’.
‘Tinā’ is set to hit cinemas across New Zealand on February 27th, 2025.
