Pollywood Pasifika Film 22

"Overjoyed with a generous serving of humility to announce the release of Pollywood Pasifika Film 22" says Craig Fasi, founder & director of Pollywood Pasifika Film. The numerous uncertainties for such a unique and equally conflicted creative path makes for an arduous journey - regardless, Mr Fasi has acconmplished an intelligent collection of Pasifika focused filmic delight.

Straying from the usual submission requests process, Mr Fasi decided 2024 would be an invitational medley of film encountered on his travels as an advocate for Polynesian film to more dedicated work where he co-curate's for Whanau Marama - New Zealand International Film Festival, Nga Whanaunga Maori & Pasifika Shorts - which has been an absolute joy for now over a decade.

3 award winning films are amongst the 5 films selected by Mr Fasi for an apprx 60min showcase.
Butterfly/Bataplai Directed by Veialu Aila-Unsworth & Red Room Directed by Alex Liu, jointly won best film for the Nga Whanaunga Maori Pasifika shorts. Red Room is a dark comedy based on a 'slap-clinic' where relief and restraint can easily be confused however Butterfly/Bataplai of Papua New Guinea origins will give you a real sense of self-worth & pride to combat the overrated generalizations engrained in society.

Lea Tupu'anga/Mother Tongue Directed by Vea Mafile'o was acknowledged with the acclaimed Whanau Marama New Zealands's Best 2024 selection of short films. Winning the NZ International Film Festival Patrons Award for Best Film! The award recognition speaks volumes of this must-see movie about the disconnection of a young speech therapist from her Tongan heritage which may put her patients life at risk.

Available film representatives will be at each screening venue to speak about their work and be hosted by Mr Fasi for Q&A with the audience.

Rated M due to offensive language and drug use.