In February of this year, Kaua`i filmmakers Teri Tico and Lillian Ball attended the Tahiti Film Festival in Papeete (FIFO). Upon return to Kaua`i they came to me with the prospect of creating a one-day mini fest from films they saw in Tahiti. With the assistance of Laura Theron (Deleguee Generale), Teri and Lillian selected six films - three shorts and three feature docs. The films will be presented in three blocks, 1pm, 3pm and 5pm - one short and one feature in each block.
The films are free to attend, and KCC student clubs will sell soft drinks, chips, cookies and Popcorn (Thanks to the Mayfield Family for donating our new Popper!). Special Thanks to Dr. Mark Ombrello, KCC History Professor for his support and assistance - as well as the KCC Division of Language, Arts and Humanities Dept for co-sponsoring the event.
Very Special
merci beaucoupto Laura Theronat FIFO for making this partnership a reality.
Cook Islands / 2024 / 23 min / Short Doc / Directed by Damon Fepulea`i
This film traces the extraordinary life of “Papa” Tom Davis, a major figure from the Cook Islands. A traditional navigator, the first Pacific scientist to work with NASA, and a doctor devoted to island communities, he pushed the boundaries of both the seas and the stars. The documentary shows how his brilliance and dedication saved lives and inspired generations of Pasifika youth.
Followed by
THE WAR BELOW: Restoring Hope in the Solomon Islands
Solomon Islands / 2025 / 50 min / Feature Doc / Directed by Tuki Laumea
In the Solomon Islands, the forgotten centre of the Pacific War, WWII bombs continue to kill and injure families every year. The film follows Loretta, widowed and crippled, struggling to raise her children, and Maeverlyn, scarred for life. Through their stories, it exposes a humanitarian crisis the world still refuses to confront.
3pm
Nothing is Impossible: The Primanavia Story
Fiji / 2024 / 15 min / Short Doc / Directed by Caleb Young
With only six weeks to prepare for the World Choir Games, the newly formed Fijian choir “Primanavia” faces seemingly impossible odds. What unfolds is a moving story of faith, a deep love of music, and an unrelenting drive that proves anything is possible.
Followed by
HOW TO POISON A PLANET
Australia / 2024 / 79 min / Doc / Directed by Katrina McGowan
This film uncovers how “forever chemicals” came to contaminate every corner of the planet, triggering an environmental crisis that stretches from the heart of New York City to the shores of Australia and far beyond.
5pm
Land Back
New Zealand / 2025 / 22 min / Short Doc / Directed by Valentin Henry
From Aotearoa New Zealand, this film takes us on an immersive journey into the Hīkoi, the Māori people’s long walk, driven by their steadfast fight to protect their rights and lands from Christopher Luxon’s conservative government. Through this powerful movement, the film highlights the enduring shadows of colonisation and the struggles that persist today.
Followed by
EMILY, I AM KAM
Australia / 2025 / 59 min / Doc / Directed by Danielle MacLean
This film honours the legacy of Emily Kam Kngwarray, one of Australia’s most significant and prolific artists. It explores the power of her work and the role it plays in protecting her Country, Alhalker.
