Directed by Āfā 'Aikona

An intimate community portrait by artist and activist Āfā 'Aikona spanning 20 years of storytelling in Soonkahni, or so-called Salt Lake City, with a blend of video and photography, Āfā weaves together the many different stories of all those who call it home.

Directed by Veisinia Moalapau'u Fulivai

Firstborn is a deeply personal Tongan drama that follows Alana, eight months pregnant and caring for her terminally ill grandmother, as she faces a wedding, a birth and her nana's deteriorating condition almost all at once. We shift between the perspectives of life as a newcomer into the world, and as one who is just leaving it.

Firstborn attempts to weave together imagery, sound and emotion to explore the tender balance of love, caretaking, grief, joy and the continuation of legacy.

Directed by Benjamin Pola

The film explores the evolving nature of cultural leadership across the Sāmoan diaspora, as more individuals abroad take on highly respected matai (high chief) roles traditionally rooted on the island.

Centered on the Tuimaseve family, the story examines how matai titles are understood today, particularly by those who have never lived in Sāmoa, don’t speak the native language, yet are entrusted with upholding vital cultural responsibilities. What does a matai look like for this new generation? And how do they shape, preserve and redefine cultural legacy from afar?

Directed by Jacob Cruz-Rine

After a lifetime of waiting, a CHamoru woman finds that her family curse has finally emerged on her body. Heeding the advice of her mother, she embarks on a quest deep into the forest to find someone, whom she long believed to be dead, who may be able to stop the curse from spreading.

Directed by Lidwina Tutuvanu

Tales of the Diaspora was conceived as a love letter to Pasifika youth around the world, as they navigate the sometimes tumultuous waves of finding and retaining cultural identity whilst growing up away from their homelands.

Directed by Vea Mafile’o

I Am Not Your Dusky Maiden is a bold and emotionally charged short drama that follows Ala, a Samoan woman, as she navigates a therapy session to confront the trauma of her past.

A cinematic exploration of identity, colonisation, and indigenous healing. Visually rich and culturally grounded, it challenges stereotypes and reclaims the narrative of the Pacific woman.

Directed by Edith Amituanai

Moving back home to Samoa, Vaimoe reflects on her life after living in America for over 40 years.

One of two films created by Edith Amituanai and Sione Tuívailala Monū for their joint Toloa Tales exhibition.