Pacific Islander Films & Entertainment
by theredhairedcrow | created - 18 Oct 2015 | updated - 13 Feb 2022 | PublicA list of films, documentaries and live performances primarily centered on Pacific Islander characters or life, past or present, where they play or present themselves, or which gives insight into their histories, range of cultures and peoples.
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1. Boy (I) (2010)
Not Rated | 87 min | Comedy, Drama
Boy, an 11-year-old child and devout Michael Jackson fan who lives on the east coast of New Zealand in 1984, gets a chance to know his absentee criminal father, who has returned to find a bag of money he buried years ago.
Director: Taika Waititi | Stars: James Rolleston, Te Aho Eketone-Whitu, Taika Waititi, Moerangi Tihore
Votes: 29,551 | Gross: $0.26M
Poignant, heart-touching, eye opening drama with brilliant touches of natural comedy and humor.
2. The Dead Lands (2014)
R | 107 min | Action, Adventure
After his tribe is slaughtered through an act of treachery, the teenage son of a slain Maori chieftain looks to avenge his father's murder and bring peace and honor to the souls of his loved ones.
Director: Toa Fraser | Stars: James Rolleston, Lawrence Makoare, Te Kohe Tuhaka, Xavier Horan
Votes: 5,273 | Gross: $0.00M
The very first totally Maori language action film of ancient legendary times with an excellent performance by Lawrence Makoare of the Lord of the Rings Trilogy and The Hobbit, James Rolleston of "Boy" and Rena Owen of "Once Were Warriors".
3. Find Me a Maori Bride (2015– )
30 min | Comedy
Follows two cousins on their quest to find Maori brides within 6 months to fulfill the will requirements of their grandmother in order to inherit the family land holdings worth 47 million dollars.
Stars: Jennifer Ward-Lealand, Te Kohe Tuhaka, Cohen Holloway, Amanda Billing
Votes: 46
A "pseudo" reality TV show about two Maori men previously out of touch with their heritage who must pass tests, find and marry a Maori bride in order receive a multi-million inheritance from a relative. Favorite character: Frankie!
4. The Strength of Water (2009)
86 min | Drama, Fantasy
When a mysterious stranger arrives in their isolated coastal town, 10-year-old twins, Kimi and Melody are forced apart. Kimi must find the strength to let go of what he loves the most.
Director: Armagan Ballantyne | Stars: Isaac Barber, Hato Paparoa, Melanie Mayall-Nahi, McCarthy Pearse
Votes: 265
Poignant theme, the story of a 10 year olld boy and his twin sister set in the rural country of New Zealand. Totally engrossing and well done.
5. White Lies (I) (2013)
99 min | Drama
A medicine woman - a giver of life - is asked to hide a secret which may protect one life but which will destroy another.
Director: Dana Rotberg | Stars: Whirimako Black, Rachel House, Antonia Prebble, Nancy Brunning
Votes: 574
A period piece about the quandary felt by mixed blood Maoris set against the racist background of New Zealand European settlers and discrimnatory treatment by full-bloods. Strong performances.
6. Harry (2013)
60 min | Crime, Drama
Gritty and suspenseful, this award-winning drama probes the narcotics underworld of New Zealand's largest city and the toll it takes on those caught in its grip.
Stars: Oscar Kightley, Sam Neill, Hunter Kamuhemu, Erroll Shand
Votes: 253
Mini-series TV show about a Pacific Islander detective who returns to work after the suicide of his wife but naturally continues to struggle, especially as his daughter becomes more emotionally distraught.
7. The Last Saint (2014)
111 min | Action, Crime, Drama
Minka is a teenage Polynesian boy living in the heart of the city. With his P-addicted mother well on the way to going completely off the rails, three people enter his life - each with a promise - each with the power to destroy.
Director: Rene Naufahu | Stars: Beulah Koale, Calvin Tuteao, Joseph Naufahu, Xavier Horan
Votes: 172
An emotional, intense "coming of age" drama about the adaptations, the substitutions children who have no childhood have to make to survive.
8. Once Were Warriors (1994)
R | 102 min | Crime, Drama
A family descended from Maori warriors is bedeviled by a violent father and the societal problems of being treated as outcasts.
Director: Lee Tamahori | Stars: Rena Owen, Temuera Morrison, Mamaengaroa Kerr-Bell, Julian Arahanga
Votes: 36,863 | Gross: $2.20M
One of the most powerful films ever on the results of colonialism and the loss and regaining of indigenous identity. Brutal, heartbreaking and unforgettable.
9. The Legend of Johnny Lingo (2002)
G | 91 min | Action, Adventure, Family
When a storm washes a canoe bearing an infant boy ashore upon a small South Pacific island, he is at first well-received as a gift from the heavens, even to the point of the tribal chief adopting him as a successor.
Director: Steven Ramirez | Stars: George Henare, Rawiri Paratene, Joe Folau, Alvin Fitisemanu
Votes: 851
No Oscar-winning performances here but a fun, heart-touching story about enduring love and family for all ages.
10. Mataku (2002–2005)
30 min | Drama, Fantasy, Horror
30 minute dramas based on Maori legend. Introduced by Temuera Morrison.
Stars: Antonio Te Maioha, Calvin Tuteao, Hori Ahipene, Glynis Paraha
Votes: 69
A series of episodes incorporating supernatural elements of Maori legends in contemporary storylines. Many guest appearances by Islanders who are now more well-known.
11. The Dark Horse (2014)
R | 124 min | Biography, Drama
A brilliant but troubled New Zealand chess champion finds purpose by teaching underprivileged children about the rules of chess and life.
Director: James Napier Robertson | Stars: Cliff Curtis, James Rolleston, Kirk Torrance, James Napier Robertson
Votes: 6,586 | Gross: $0.06M
Cliff Curtis in one of his best performances yet as a mentally and emotionally challenged Maori who tries to inspire his community youth through teaching them chess. Outstanding.
12. Tongan Ark (2012)
93 min | Documentary, Biography, History
Ancient philosophy, opera and Tongan culture come together in this intimate portrait of a teacher, his school and his people as they navigate a sea of repression and doubt in a small but troubled Pacific island kingdom.
Director: Paul Janman | Stars: Futa Helu, 'Atolomake Helu, Sisi'uno Helu, Kik Velt
Votes: 11
Introspective, inspiring documentary providing insight into a culture few outsiders are fully aware of, if at all.
13. The Orator (2011)
110 min | Drama
Saili, a little person and taro farmer, has his life turned upside-down when he is denied his father's chiefly status and his family plantation is threatened.
Director: Tusi Tamasese | Stars: Fa'afiaula Sanote, Tausili Pushparaj, Salamasina Mataia, Ioata Tanielu
Votes: 448
A film both emotionally complex and simple at times, difficult to watch then easy flowing due to the touching storyline.
14. Tanna (2015)
Not Rated | 104 min | Adventure, Drama, Romance
Set on a remote Pacific island, covered in rain forest and dominated by an active volcano, this heartfelt story, enacted by the Yakel tribe, tells of a sister's loyalty, a forbidden love affair and the pact between the old ways and the new.
Directors: Martin Butler, Bentley Dean | Stars: Mungau Dain, Marie Wawa, Marceline Rofit, Charlie Kahla
Votes: 4,686 | Gross: $0.01M
Love, war, grief, epic deeds and devotion exist as powerfully in other cultures as those of the non-indigenous majority, but seldom are "other" stories presented as being as relevant or interesting due to their different cultures and peoples. Glad to see more and more such films as Tanna.
15. Kawa (2010)
Not Rated | 76 min | Drama, Romance
An apparently happy family man must reveal a lifelong secret - that he is gay.
Director: Katie Wolfe | Stars: Calvin Tuteao, Nathalie Boltt, George Henare, Vicky Haughton
Votes: 409
A husband faces a difficult yet ultimately liberating decision not only regarding his sexuality but his family's expectations of him as their next traditional leader.
16. Crooked Earth (2001)
100 min | Drama
Forces of tradition and tribal pride collide with government authority.
Director: Sam Pillsbury | Stars: Temuera Morrison, Lawrence Makoare, Jaime Passier-Armstrong, Quinton Hita
Votes: 254
Two very different Maori brothers have opposing views of how to lead their community after their father's death.
17. Rapa Nui (1994)
R | 107 min | Action, Adventure, Drama
Love between the representatives of two warring tribes changes the balance of power on the whole remote island.
Director: Kevin Reynolds | Stars: Jason Scott Lee, Esai Morales, Sandrine Holt, Eru Potaka Dewes
Votes: 5,322 | Gross: $0.31M
Not strictly an "Islander" film in the way of the others on this list, it is set on Easter Island with several fine Pacifica actors.
18. Waitangi: What Really Happened (2011 TV Movie)
68 min | History
A dramatization of the days leading up to 6 February 1840 when the gathered Maori leaders signed the Treaty of Waitangi, told in recreations and interviews with the participants and locals.
Director: Peter Burger | Stars: George Henare, Rawiri Paratene, Calvin Tuteao, Jarod Rawiri
Votes: 33
Uncomfortable for some, necessary for all. A part of history.
19. Kumu Hina (2014)
Unrated | 75 min | Documentary, Biography
A transgender Native Hawaiian teacher inspires a young girl to fulfill her destiny of leading the school's male hula troupe, even as she struggles to find love and a committed relationship in her own life.
Directors: Dean Hamer, Joe Wilson | Stars: Leo Anderson Akana, Haemaccelo Kalu, Ho'Onani Kamai, Hinaleimoana Wong-Kalu
Votes: 141
A truly inspiring individual and story.
20. Behind the Brush (2014)
78 min | Documentary
Director: Tommy Ross | Stars: Aaron Chine, Thad Minnick
Votes: 13
A painter of Maori portraits from the 19th century.
21. Sione's 2: Unfinished Business (2012)
92 min | Comedy
Five years ago our heroes the Duckrockers thought they had figured it all out - they had found themselves girlfriends to take to Siones wedding and the future was looking bright: Michael ... See full synopsis »
Director: Simon Bennett | Stars: Oscar Kightley, Robbie Magasiva, Shimpal Lelisi, Heto Ah Hi
Votes: 308
Both are good, but I found this sequel funnier.
22. Samoan Wedding (2006)
Not Rated | 97 min | Comedy, Romance
Four raucous Samoans are banned from their best friend's wedding. To get in, they have to prove themselves as mature individuals by getting and keeping girlfriends.
Director: Chris Graham | Stars: Oscar Kightley, Heto Ah Hi, Shimpal Lelisi, Robbie Magasiva
Votes: 1,623 | Gross: $0.07M
The introduction to Sione's troubles.
23. Coral (II) (2015)
15 min | Short, Drama, Mystery
South Pacific, present day. Fishing in a forbidden coral lagoon, a young Samoan father makes a shocking discovery. Its consequences will be determined by the struggle between his conscience and his cowardice.
Director: Giacomo Martelli | Stars: Afa Pio Tupua, Joshua Fuimaono Wright, Sina Fuimaono Wright, Taulesulu Matafeo
Votes: 5
A short film, intense and powerful.
24. In Football We Trust (2015)
Not Rated | 87 min | Documentary, Family, Sport
"In Football We Trust" captures a snapshot in time amid the rise of the Pacific Islander presence in the NFL. Presenting a new take on the American immigrant story, this feature length ... See full summary »
Directors: Tony Vainuku, Erika Cohn | Stars: Leva Bloomfield, Vita Bloomfield, Fihi Kaufusi, Harvey Langi
Votes: 81
With many having outstanding natural athleticism and strength, more and more Islanders have been drafted into the NFL bringing greatly needed funds to their families but the culture clash can take its toll.
25. Bro'Town (2004–2009)
22 min | Animation, Comedy
A modern day fairytale about five Auckland teenagers growing up in the big bad city, bro'Town chronicles the schoolboy misadventures of Vale, Valea, Sione, Mack and Jeff da Maori in a proudly suburban, non PC satire.
Stars: David Fane, Mario Gaoa, Oscar Kightley, Shimpal Lelisi
Votes: 315
An animated comedy series set in Auckland.
26. Tatau (2012)
15 min | Short, Drama, Family
Tatau is about Siaki, an elderly Samoan man struggling to come to terms with the lifelong shame of having an incomplete traditional tattoo and the shame of now losing his sight. As Siaki's ... See full summary »
Director: Chantelle Burgoyne | Stars: Beulah Koale, Stacey Leilua, Robbie Magasiva, Vasa Tasele
Non-natives are getting "Islander" inspired or actual tattoos left and right these days, but this short film shows how important they are to the culture, not just to look "cool."
27. What Becomes of the Broken Hearted? (1999)
108 min | Crime, Drama, Thriller
Jake Muss' oldest son is killed in a gang fight and the younger son wants revenge, but Jake doesn't want to lose his other son to violence as well.
Director: Ian Mune | Stars: Temuera Morrison, Rena Owen, Clint Eruera, Nancy Brunning
Votes: 3,769
Sequel to the smashing Once Were Warriors, though somewhat disjointed, it continues the Heke family's story.
28. Tama Tu (2005)
TV-MA | 17 min | Short, War
A squad of Maori troops in WWII Europe silently entertain themselves in a destroyed house while waiting to enter the coming battle.
Director: Taika Waititi | Stars: Tammy Davis, Taungaroa Emile, Rob Mokaraka, Jeremy Randerson
Votes: 419
A unique short film, no dialogue at all but it "speaks" as Islander soldiers stuck under siege in WW2.
29. Utu (1983)
Unrated | 104 min | Adventure, Drama, History
In 1870, a Maori warrior working with the British finds his village massacred, and vows revenge.
Director: Geoff Murphy | Stars: Anzac Wallace, Bruno Lawrence, Tim Elliott, Kelly Johnson
Votes: 1,333
The complexity of duality.
30. Naming Number Two (2006)
PG | 94 min | Comedy, Drama
A matriarch organizes a feast with her family, in which she will name her successor.
Director: Toa Fraser | Stars: Ruby Dee, Mia Blake, Rene Naufahu, Miriama McDowell
Votes: 610
A family comedy drama
31. The Silent One (1984)
PG | 95 min | Adventure, Drama, Family
A mythological children's tale about the friendship between a deaf mute boy, Jonasi, and a rare white turtle.
Director: Yvonne Mackay | Stars: George Henare, Pat Evison, Teraki Tokorangi, Turi Tama
Votes: 144
Similar story of The Legend of Johnny Lingo, and also suitable for the whole family.
32. The Best of Laughing with Samoans (2003 Video)
60 min | Comedy
Stars: Eteuati Ete, Tofiga Fepulea'i
Votes: 7
These two comedic actors has since gone on to become international stars for their hilarious and insightful live-stage performances about Pacific Islander life. They continue to be in demand in 2015 with tours spanning continents.
33. Born to Dance (2015)
Not Rated | 96 min | Action, Drama, Music
Coming of age tale told through the eyes of 'Tu', an ambitious young man from Auckland who dreams of being a professional hip-hop dancer.
Directors: Tammy Davis, Chris Graham | Stars: Tia Maipi, Stan Walker, Kherington Payne, John Tui
Votes: 837
Common story: young guy wants to dance but against a parent's expectations for their future. A little romance, a little drama set against the hip-hop dance and music background with a Maori/Polynesian twist. A fun "feel good" film.
34. Hunt for the Wilderpeople (2016)
PG-13 | 101 min | Adventure, Comedy, Drama
A national manhunt is ordered for a rebellious kid and his foster uncle who go missing in the wild New Zealand bush.
Director: Taika Waititi | Stars: Sam Neill, Julian Dennison, Rima Te Wiata, Rachel House
Votes: 141,979 | Gross: $5.20M
One of my favorites, with terrific performances, with the quirkiness of the director firmly in place.
35. The Patriarch (2016)
103 min | Drama
From the author of "The Whale Rider", a tale of family rivalry and reconciliation, set against the stunning backdrop of rural New Zealand in the 1960s.
Director: Lee Tamahori | Stars: Temuera Morrison, Akuhata Keefe, Nancy Brunning, Jim Moriarty
Votes: 1,028
Reminded me very much of my own family, though I enjoyed the film just the same. A solid effort to present a complex family tale and compact so much information.
36. Waru (2017)
86 min | Drama
A powerful, challenging story surrounding the tangi (funeral) of a small Waru boy who dies at the hands of his caregiver and how his death impacts the community.
Directors: Ainsley Gardiner, Casey Kaa, Renae Maihi, Awanui Simich-Pene, Briar Grace Smith, Paula Whetu Jones, Chelsea Winstanley, Katie Wolfe | Stars: Tanea Heke, Roimata Fox, Ngapaki Moetara, Awhina-Rose Ashby
Votes: 339
37. Hibiscus & Ruthless (2018)
PG-13 | 97 min | Comedy
"No Going Out and No Boyfriends" - Hibiscus' obedience towards her Mum's rules is put to the test in her final year of University. As guys start to impress Hibiscus, she asks her childhood friend Ruth, to help keep her focused.
Director: Stallone Vaiaoga-Ioasa | Stars: Suivai Autagavaia, Anna-Maree Thomas, Lafitaga Mafaufau, Yvonne Maea-Brown
Votes: 182
38. The Casketeers (2018– )
TV-14 | Documentary
Maori funeral directors Francis and Kaiora Tipene and staff temper good humor with care and respect as they help Polynesian families cope with loss.
Stars: Francis Tipene, Kaiora Tipene
Votes: 515
39. Three Wise Cousins (2016)
PG-13 | 89 min | Comedy, Romance
A young New Zealand Samoan man called Adam (Neil Amituanai) ventures to his motherland to try and impress his crush Mary (Gloria Ofa Blake), who claims she only likes "real" Pacific Island men.
Director: Stallone Vaiaoga-Ioasa | Stars: Neil Amituanai, Gloria Blake, Susana Fanueli, Valelia Ioane
Votes: 220
40. Take Home Pay (2019)
PG | 105 min | Action, Comedy
Two brothers; Alama and Popo, arrive for the first time in NZ as Seasonal Workers, making plenty of money to take back home to their family in Samoa. But things take a turn for the worst ... See full summary »
Director: Stallone Vaiaoga-Ioasa | Stars: Tofiga Fepulea'i, Vito Vito, Ronnie Taulafo, Cindy of Samoa
Votes: 180
41. Cousins (III) (2021)
98 min | Drama
Entwines the very different lives of three Maori girls, cousins, through tumultuous decades, after one of them is taken from her family and raised in an orphanage.
Directors: Ainsley Gardiner, Briar Grace Smith | Stars: Rachel House, Chelsie Preston Crayford, Cohen Holloway, Miriama Smith
Votes: 672
42. Finding 'Ohana (2021)
PG | 123 min | Action, Adventure, Comedy
A summer in rural O‘ahu takes an exciting turn for two Brooklyn-raised siblings when a journal pointing to long-lost treasure sets them on an epic adventure with new friends, and leads them to reconnect with their Hawaiian heritage.
Director: Jude Weng | Stars: Kea Peahu, Alex Aiono, Lindsay Watson, Owen Vaccaro
Votes: 11,651
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