TINĀ (MOTHER)

The directorial debut of Samoan-born, Aotearoa-based Miki Magasiva, TINĀ is an uplifting and inspiring story of love and perseverance. Grieving her daughter's death in the 2011 Christchurch earthquake, Mareta Percival (Anapela Polataivao) reluctantly takes on the role of substitute teacher at an elite, private school. There, she discovers the students are lacking guidance and care. This prompts Mareta to form a choir that engages with the symphony of her Samoan background. While building a community of like-minded students traumatised by the earthquake, Ms. Percival provides inspiration and support within a privileged New Zealand community that resists her every move.