Tinā review
By Joel Humphries · Watched 09.09.25
★★★★ 4 / 5
Spoiler-free review
Tinā is a Samoan Sister Act shaped by grief rather than broad comedy. Anapela Polataivao gives an outstanding performance as a teacher rebuilding her life after losing her daughter in the Christchurch earthquake, gradually becoming a maternal presence for students at an elite private school. Samoan choral music carries the film’s heart, with Antonia Robinson’s voice providing a particular highlight. I wanted broader Samoan representation and more engagement with New Zealand’s Māori-Samoan relationships, but those omissions do not erase the emotional and cultural force. Anyone susceptible to music, resilience and a well-earned tear should see it.
Full review — contains spoilers
Tinā is a deeply moving drama that hits all the right emotional chords, offering a heartfelt exploration of grief, resilience, and the power of music to heal. Anapela Polataivao delivers a outstanding performance as Mareta, a Samoan teacher struggling after the loss of her daughter in the 2011 Christchurch earthquakes. Her journey from reluctant substitute teacher at an elite private school to a mother figure for her students is both authentic and inspiring. The choir scenes, infused with Samoan choral music, are a highlight, with young Antonia Robinson’s beautiful voice as Sophie stealing the show.
The film’s strength lies in its emotional depth and cultural resonance, crafting a narrative that feels like a tearjerker Samoan Sister Act . The plot is designed to make you feel Mareta’s pain from the opening act and then take you through a series of highs and lows for her and it succeeds, highlighted by the vibrant choral performances that carry the story’s heart.
That said, I couldn’t help but wish for more Samoan representation in the cast to fully reflect the culture at the story’s core. Additionally, the absence of Māori-Samoan interactions felt like a missed opportunity, given New Zealand's demographics. These gaps don’t detract from the film’s impact but left me curious for a deeper dive into the community dynamics.
Tinā is a story that will resonate with anyone who appreciates a well-crafted emotional journey and/or has a soft spot for choral music. Go see it.