Fiji’s emerging film industry could see significant growth within the next few years as local creatives begin building the foundations for home-grown productions.
Filmmaker Tulia Nacola said the successful premiere of the country’s first iTaukei feature film had boosted confidence in the potential of local storytelling and audience support.
“The film industry is very new, we’re just developing,” Ms Nacola said.
She explained that many local creatives had gained experience working on international productions such as Love Island and Survivor, and were now combining their skills to establish a stronger local industry.
“We’ve all been exposed internationally, but now we’re coming together to establish this local film foundation and create a really exciting environment.” She said a lack of resources and clear pathways had previously limited opportunities for aspiring filmmakers, writers, and editors.
“There are a lot of creative people who want to be involved in film, they just don’t know where to go.”
The feature film was funded by the Department of Culture, Heritage, and Arts Fiji on a modest budget, highlighting both the challenges and possibilities facing the sector.
Production involved a six-day shoot in the highlands of Ra with a cast and crew of about 50 people, followed by three months of editing.
Ms Nacola confirmed that a documentary and another feature film were already in development this year.
“We’re hoping that a lot more local stories will be told.
“Within three to five years Fiji could see a boom in locally produced films as collaboration and training opportunities expand.”
iTaukei film draws sold-out crowd
FIJI’S first iTaukei-language feature film premiered to a sold out audience, marking a milestone for local storytelling and the country’s emerging film industry.
Filmmaker and novelist Tulia Nacola said the lead-up to the screening at Damodar Cinemas in Suva had been filled with Filmmaker and novelist Tulia Nacola.
“I was really nervous because we didn’t know the market or what to expect from audiences,” Ms Nacola said.
Ticket sales initially slowed before a late surge saw the screening sell out a week in advance, turning anxiety into relief for the cast and crew.
“When the tickets sold out a week before screening, I knew everything was going to be OK.”
The film Adi attracted a strong turnout of supporters, elders, and community members, highlighting growing public interestin Fiji-made productions and the importance of telling stories in the iTaukei language.
Filmed in the highlands of Ra with a cast and crew of about 50 people, the production was completed on a modest budget, reflecting the determination of local creatives to bring Fiji stories to the big screen.
Ms Nacola said the response from audiences had been overwhelming and had strengthened her commitment to continue producing local films.
“The reaction from the public has been encouraging. It makes me want to give more to the people of the future.”
The film was officially launched by Minister for Women, Children and Social Protection Sashi Kiran, who described filmmaking as a powerful tool for preserving identity and cultural values.
