
The film explores the evolving nature of cultural leadership across the Sāmoan diaspora, as more individuals abroad take on highly respected matai (high chief) roles traditionally rooted on the island. Centered on the Tuimaseve family, the story examines how matai titles are understood today, particularly by those who have never lived in Sāmoa, don’t speak the native language, yet are entrusted with upholding vital cultural responsibilities. What does a matai look like for this new generation? And how do they shape, preserve and redefine cultural legacy from afar?
- Year2026
- Runtime9 minutes
- LanguageEnglish, Samoan
- CountryUnited States, Samoa
- PremiereWorld premiere
- GenreDocumentary
- DirectorBenjamin Pola
- ScreenwriterBenjamin Pola
- ProducerBenjamin Pola, Tia Kaiulani Kanaeholo
- Executive ProducerVisual Communications
- CastUi Tuimaseve, Angel Mataia Pereyra
- CinematographerBenjamin Pola
- EditorBenjamin Pola
- Production DesignBenjamin Pola, Tia Kaiulani Kanaeholo
- ComposerOjay Pemasa Tupu
- Sound DesignBenjamin Pola
- MusicTenelle
The film explores the evolving nature of cultural leadership across the Sāmoan diaspora, as more individuals abroad take on highly respected matai (high chief) roles traditionally rooted on the island. Centered on the Tuimaseve family, the story examines how matai titles are understood today, particularly by those who have never lived in Sāmoa, don’t speak the native language, yet are entrusted with upholding vital cultural responsibilities. What does a matai look like for this new generation? And how do they shape, preserve and redefine cultural legacy from afar?
- Year2026
- Runtime9 minutes
- LanguageEnglish, Samoan
- CountryUnited States, Samoa
- PremiereWorld premiere
- GenreDocumentary
- DirectorBenjamin Pola
- ScreenwriterBenjamin Pola
- ProducerBenjamin Pola, Tia Kaiulani Kanaeholo
- Executive ProducerVisual Communications
- CastUi Tuimaseve, Angel Mataia Pereyra
- CinematographerBenjamin Pola
- EditorBenjamin Pola
- Production DesignBenjamin Pola, Tia Kaiulani Kanaeholo
- ComposerOjay Pemasa Tupu
- Sound DesignBenjamin Pola
- MusicTenelle