TINĀ, THE MOVIE OF THE MOMENT | REVIEW

“I wish I could be as brave as you, Ms.” This simple yet powerful line captures a profound truth: even at our lowest points, we can still be seen as strong, resilient, and inspiring to others. In Miki Magasiva’s directorial debut, TINĀ, viewers are invited into an emotional journey filled with moments of joy, heartache, and introspection.

The film follows Mareta, a grieving mother portrayed by the exceptional Samoan actress Anapela Polata’ivao, as she navigates the aftermath of losing her daughter. Taking on a role as a substitute teacher at an elite private school, Mareta forms an unlikely connection with Sophie (Antonia Robinson), a student who is grappling with her own personal challenges. The bond between Mareta and Sophie becomes the heart of the film, ultimately leading to the creation of a school choir.

What makes their relationship especially compelling is the way it is framed. The film suggests that Sophie, a white girl, comes to represent Mareta’s late daughter—a sentiment highlighted when Mareta gives Sophie her daughter’s cherished hair clip in a moment of crisis. “No matter what happens, I want you to keep singing,” Mareta tells Sophie, a line that is meant to be a moving gesture but also invites deeper questions. Their earlier interaction, particularly in the opening scene where Mareta’s relationship with her own daughter appears strained, subtly hints at feelings of envy or unresolved tension, adding complexity to the narrative.

TINĀ excels in many aspects. Polata’ivao’s performance is nothing short of brilliant, delivering a raw, nuanced portrayal of grief and healing. Robinson complements her well, offering a heartfelt performance that brings authenticity to their shared journey. Magasiva’s direction captures the emotional depth of the characters’ lives, providing a rare and invaluable perspective on the complexities of grief, particularly within the Pacific Islander community, which is seldom given this kind of representation in mainstream cinema.

The cinematography is stunning, immersing viewers in both the emotional and cultural landscape of the story. The incorporation of music as a tool for healing adds a layer of hope, underscoring the resilience of the characters as they find strength through their shared experiences. While some narrative choices may leave room for discussion, TINĀ ultimately stands out as a heartfelt and powerful exploration of grief, connection, and cultural identity. It’s a film that resonates deeply, offering both moments of sorrow and glimmers of hope.

See TINĀ now at Centre Place.

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