⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ 1/2 (out of 5)
Tragic events occur worldwide every day that rarely make the news on the other side of the world. Yet, the 2011 Christchurch earthquakes had an impact that sent ripples worldwide and continues to affect the island nation's conscience. Writer/director Miki Magasiva (We Are Still Here) taps into the personal shockwaves that continue to run through the various communities impacted by the quake.
Mareta Percival (Anapela Polataivao) had spent much of her life teaching music in many of the underprivileged schools in her community to help the students many had left behind. Until her daughter travelled to the city to qualify for a music scholarship but was killed in the earthquakes during her fateful trip to Christchurch. This sent Mareta into an emotional and spiritual tailspin for over three years. She would have gone on longer if her government benefits weren’t threatened by her lack of work. The overqualified instructor applies to a wealthy, conservative private school as a substitute teacher to appease the government. Surprisingly, the grieving teacher gets the job, eventually sees the opportunity to start a choir, and encourages the students to participate in the national Big Sing competition. Yet, as she attempts to rebuild her life and that of many students, internal and cultural opposition put up barriers for her to hear the music again.
Initially, this film felt like a typical tragedy-to-triumph project with a lesson in race relations added for good measure. Except Miki Magasiva delivers something unique that will capture the hearts of all willing to let go of their expectations and let the music permeate their lives. At the heart of this deeply affecting story is the understated, commanding performance of Anapela Polataivao. In her subtle manner, the veteran actress carries this film on her shoulders. She draws the audience into the depth of her grief and beautiful passion for the music that can save her soul. She is surrounded by an outstanding cast that includes Beulah Koale, Antonia Robinson and Dalip Sondhi whose characters all carry their own internal demons. Yet, all rely on the seismic force of Polataivao’s story arc that travels through this tale, which contains unexpected twists and emotionally rich relationships that will have aftershocks well after leaving the theatre.
Tinā is the type of movie that audiences have been yearning for over the past few years. A story for those who thirst for an emotionally charged film that entertains and inspires positive change in the human spirit. Like all things affected by earthquakes, noticeable plot holes and soft points could potentially sink this film. Still, none of these minor weaknesses can undermine the overall bittersweet encounter that this will have on all who discover this New Zealand gem.
Have you ever thought of starting a movie discussion group?
REEL DIALOGUE: Can joy really come out of tragedy?
Miki Magasiva plunges into the deep hole of grief through tragedy. Yet, in Tina's unlikely musical story, he gives us an unexpected lifeline to show us the way out of this heartbreaking ordeal. Her tale manages to show that beauty can be found in injustice, tragedy, and suffering. It is a rough and raw depiction of the lives of many across the world who face racial and emotional opposition.
This could be said of the heart of the good news of the story: the life and death of Jesus.
Jesus' story is one of tragic beginnings and a horrific end, but throughout his short time on earth, this tale of potential woe does contain a certain beauty and offers hope to the world. His death symbolises everlasting joy for many, and his life continues to provide an overwhelming expectation of what is to be. If you see little hope or joy in your life, it may be a good time to check out Jesus's story. Jesus offers people hope in a forever that goes beyond their wildest dreams.
Check it out for yourself today: Jesus' story told by Luke
If you want to discuss these questions from this film, contact us at Third Space. We would love to chat about this and more.
