From Fiji Village to NZ Film Festival: Bati is a Triumph for Pacific Cinema

^{The first Fijian feature to screen at NZIFF, Bati. has struck a chord with Pacific audiences. Photo: Supplied}

Aroha Awarau | Guest Writer

The new Fijian boxing film Bati. opens and closes with its main character striking a lali – a traditional drum used to call villagers to church and important ceremonies – immediately signalling a unique cinematic experience, rich in cultural tradition and driven by a deep passion to bring Fijian stories to the big screen.

Directed and written by Andrew John Fakaua Ponton – hailing from the villages of Vaiaku, Funafuti, and Tuvalu – Bati is a remarkable achievement. Self-funded on a shoestring budget, made with non-actors and a small, relatively inexperienced crew of just six, the film has become the first Fijian feature to screen at Whānau Mārama – New Zealand International Film Festival.

Set against the backdrop of both urban and rural Fijian landscapes and featuring local non-actors – with several scenes spoken entirely in the indigenous language – Bati. tells the story of aspiring boxer Sam (James Rabuatoka) and his partner Rachel (Jedidiah Tuinasavusavu) as they struggle to live in the city of Suva. When Rachel loses her job, Sam steps up by working security to support them, all while training for a $50,000 prizefight that could be their ticket out of financial hardship. 

^{Andrew John Fakaua Ponton, the Tuvaluan filmmaker behind Bati. Photo: Supplied}

This is an inspiring underdog story told through a distinctly Pacific lens, with careful attention to cultural detail and striking cinematography by Damien Light that captures both urban and rural Fijian landscapes in a way that feels authentic and essential to the narrative. Unusual for a boxing film, even the antagonist is portrayed with empathy, leaving the audience genuinely torn – rooting not only for the underdog, but also for his opponent, as both men enter the ring with pride, purpose, and everything on the line.

Some of the most moving moments come when Sam and Rachel return to their village of Namosi during hard times; The scenes with their parents are tender, intimate, and emotionally resonant. It’s also refreshing to see a cast of inexperienced Fijian actors bringing a raw, natural talent to the screen, adding to the film’s sincerity and charm. The Pacific-themed soundtrack by Kevin Croner, enriched the film’s cultural atmosphere and deepened the emotional impact of the story.

The final message of Bati. will resonate deeply with many Pacific families. Life in the city may bring financial challenges – but you are never truly poor. Riches can be found by returning to the village, where the land provides nourishment, and the love and support of family become the foundation for survival.

Bati. had its world premiere at Auckland’s Hollywood Theatre in Avondale on Saturday, warmly embraced by the local Fijian and Tuvaluan community. What made the screening so powerful was not just the film itself, but the collective pride felt in the room – hearing their language spoken, seeing their culture authentically portrayed, and recognizing themselves on the big screen. It was a reminder of why films like Bati. matter – and why storytellers like Ponton must be supported in bringing Pacific stories to the world.

^{Lead actor James Rabuatoka at Auckland’s Hollywood Theatre for the world premiere of Bati. Photo: Supplied}

After the screening, an emotional message from the director – who was unable to attend – was read aloud. He spoke candidly about the many challenges of making the film, at times appearing to justify its modest production values and the inexperience of the cast and crew, while reassuring the audience that the film was made with “a lot of heart”.  

But in truth, no justification was needed. The very act of self-funding and completing a feature film that authentically represents Fijian culture and language – in a country without a well-established film industry – and having it premiere at the prestigious Whānau Mārama: New Zealand International Film Festival is an extraordinary achievement in itself.

Lead actor James Rabuatoka flew to Auckland to represent the film. Remarkably, he landed the role after spotting a casting notice at his local supermarket – and the premiere marked his first time leaving his homeland. In a touching final moment, Rabuatoka encouraged the audience to help spread the word: “A little push will go a long way,” he said.  He’s absolutely right!

Bati. is a gift to Pacific cinema – an authentic, heartfelt story that deserves to be seen and celebrated by audiences everywhere.

Bati screening times: 

Wellington: 
Saturday August 16th, 3:30pm, Massey University National Academy of Screen Arts Cinema. 

Christchurch: 
Sunday August 17th, 2.15pm, Lumiere Cinemas. 
Friday August 22nd, 12:15pm, Lumiere Cinemas

Tickets: www.nziff.co.nz