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This month on Point of View, host Tom Augustine sits down with Tongan-Kiwi filmmaker Vea Mafile’o, co-director of Lomu, the new film about All Blacks legend Jonah Lomu, premiering in New Zealand cinemas on September 3.
With a background in visual arts and art direction, Vea has built an impressive career across film and television. Her work includes the documentary For My Father’s Kingdom, which premiered at the 2019 Berlin Film Festival, and the acclaimed short Lea Tupu’anga/Mother Tongue, selected for the 2024 Sundance Film Festival.
About Lomu
The film follows Jonah Lomu’s journey from his schoolboy days at Wesley College and his All Blacks debut to his unforgettable performance at the 1995 Rugby World Cup, where he became a global sporting icon.
Drawing on archival interviews with Jonah, former teammates, coach Laurie Mains and his former manager Phil Kingsley Jones, Lomu goes beyond the rugby field to explore the man behind the legend.
The film examines Jonah’s Tongan heritage, his quiet and private nature, and the pressures of international fame as rugby moved into the professional era.
What to Expect
- Feature Interview – Vea Mafile’o on Lomu, her filmmaking journey, and bringing Jonah’s story to the screen.
- View Screen – A look at films arriving in New Zealand cinemas this month.
Speakers
- Tom Augustine – Host (@thaugustine)
- Vea Mafile’o – Filmmaker and co-director of Lomu
Stay Connected
- Facebook: @viewmagnz
- Instagram: @viewmagnz
- Website: viewmag.co.nz
Stay tuned for more conversations with the people shaping film, culture, and the arts.
