Set in the aftermath of the devastating 2011 Christchurch earthquake, Miki Magasiva’s powerful New Zealand drama follows Mareta Percival (Anapela Polataivao), a grieving Samoan music teacher struggling with a profound personal loss.
Reluctantly taking on a substitute teaching role at an elite, wealthy private school, she finds a student body crying out for guidance and inspiration. By introducing the rich, unifying harmonies of her culture and forming an unconventional school choir, Mareta bridges massive cultural and class divides while unexpected healing begins to take root for both herself and her students.
The reason this big-hearted tearjerker works so brilliantly is its rare blend of authentic emotional grit and soaring, soul-stirring musical numbers, anchored by Anapela Polataivao’s powerhouse performance. It handles grief, community, and identity with fierce honesty, turning an against-the-odds choir journey into an unforgettable celebration of cultural pride and human resilience.
From the sharp culture clashes in the classroom to the breathtaking, transcendent performances on stage, this modern Kiwi classic lingers long after the final note fades.
Drama
New Zealand (English,Samoan) 124 Min
