PMN Summer Series: Film Review: A true-to-life film of Tongan triumph

Welcome to PMN's Summer Series, where we republish some of our best and most popular stories from the last 12 months or so.

Otai, ta’ovala, golden smiles, and red … everywhere.

Hundreds dressed in their Pacific best to watch the Tāmaki Makaurau premiere of Red, White and Brass earlier this year in March.

A beautifully crafted film, inspired by a true story of how a church youth group went from missing out on tickets to the Tonga vs France game at the 2011 Rugby World Cup, to forming a brass marching band and becoming the pre-entertainment for that very match.

At the heart of the movie is Maka, portrayed by John-Paul Foliaki, a die-hard Tongan rugby fan whose unwavering faith and perseverance drive his efforts to rally his community to attend the game.

Red, White and Brass is a heartwarming story that showcases the steadfast determination and resilience of the Tongan people.

Like Maka says in the film, “it’s all of us or none of us".

Co-written and co-produced by Halaifonua Finau (The Panthers) the film is laced with the slick poly-humour that hurts and those quick witted one-liners that sting but still make you laugh.

Everyone loves an underdog story, but what the film highlights is how Pacific peoples must balance their faith and respect for tradition with the pursuit of their dreams, even if it means to challenge the expectations of their elders.

Red, White and Brass is led by a stunning cast of Mikey Falesiu (Toke​), Dimitrius Schuster-Koloamatangi (The Panthers​), Ilaisaane Green (Brutal Lives), Onetoto Ikuva, Lotima Pome'e (Under the Vines) and Haanz Fa'avae-Jackson (Savage) as well an amazingly well-selected group of supporting characters, ensuring this film encompasses home-grown feelings and true-to-life experiences that are relatable and reflective of the time period.​

The captivating soundtrack also needs highlighting as it’s like the poly-version of drumline.

It heavily features music from Three Houses Down - who take inspiration from Tongan brass bands, and might inspire the next generation of brass extraordinaires.

Through its inspiring portrayal of the characters' struggles and triumphs, the film beautifully captures the essence of what it means to be Tongan and demonstrates why the Tongan community is known for giving everything their all.

The lasting impression of the movie is encompassed in the concept of māfana. If you know, you know, if you don’t, watch the movie and find out.