Pepe is the son of a successful Samoan businessman, who rejects his father's world and his Christianity. Although he becomes rebellious, anti-social and engages in criminal activity, as well as being expelled from school, he manages to establish himself in business. However, when he gets his girlfriend pregnant, he takes on the responsibilities of a family. Through his close association with half-cast dwarf, Tagata, he enters the supernatural realm of his traditional ways and begins to find some peace and meaning to his life.
Acting
Faifua Amiga Jr.'s raw, volcanic energy as Pepe.
Cinematography
Samoan landscapes that feel spiritually alive.
Director
Martyn Sanderson
Trivia, insights & behind the scenes
Based on Albert Wendt's groundbreaking 1974 novel, the first major novel by a Pacific Islander — the film adapts his unflinching look at post-colonial Samoan identity.
Director Martyn Sanderson was a Pākehā (white New Zealander) which sparked debate about cultural authenticity — yet he spent years in Samoa and co-wrote the script with Wendt himself.
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