A packed Apollo cinemas in Apia were left “stunned” “moved” “in tears” and in many other states of emotional euphoria after the premiere of the movie, “One Thousand Ropes” last night.
The second feature film by acclaimed Samoan writer/director Tusi Tamasese opened to a full house after a brief reception hosted by the New Zealand High Commission in Apia and management of Apollo Cinemas.
Tusi Tamasese said after the screening that he was very happy with the reaction by members of the invited audience.
“I thought it went very well. You never know how people are going to react. A lot of appreciation,” he said after the showing.
Leading lady Frankie Adams and fellow cast member Beulah Koale had been flown in from New Zealand for the premiere and were glowing after the screening.
“I’ve always wanted to do this. Be in a Samoan movie and show it to my people in Samoa, and they gave us the thumbs up,” said Koale who is about to depart on a promotional tour for his new movie, “Thank You For Your Service, Sir”, in which he plays a returned American Samoan soldier in Iraq.
Koale is from the villages of A’ele in Upolu and Sala’ilua, Savai’i.
“The reactions has been overwhelming. So excited my family here in Samoa have been able to see this,” said Frankie Adams who hails from Sapapali’i, Savai’i.
His Highness the Head of State, Tuiatua Tupua Tamasese Efi and Masiofo Filifilia Tamasese were in attendance.
“It’s a very brave venture, and they have done a good job of getting it to the screen,” he said after the screening.
The film will open to the public at Apollo Cinemas March 23rd. It premieres in Wellington, NZ on March 21st and Auckland on the 22nd.
Producer Catherine Fitzgerald said discussions are still under way to show this movie in American Samoa.
