Movie Review: Tinā (Mother)

Maria Morera Johnson reviews Tinā (Mother), a beautiful story of loss and hope set in Christchurch, New Zealand after the devastating earthquake of 2011.

It’s probably not a great idea to review a film while the tears are still wet on my face, but here I am, weeping and writing, and urging you to watch the deeply moving film, Tinā (Mother). 

Loss and Despair in Mourning

The protagonist, Mareta Percival, a music teacher dedicated to her Samoan community in New Zealand, suffers the tragic loss of her daughter in the devastating earthquake that hit Christchurch in 2011. She spirals into a depression, leaving both teaching and her Catholic faith, unable to cope with her grief. 

At the urging of her nephew, and facing the very real possibility of losing the aid that is barely sustaining her, Mareta takes a position in an elite private school and establishes a choir. 

Mareta not only faces bigotry from the staff, but resentment from her friends for abandoning the community school. She defends the children in the prep school, observing they have their own challenges. Meanwhile, Mareta navigates the loss of her faith, alluded to in a passing scene with the empty spot where a crucifix once graced a wall, now notably removed, but still present in the sunburned and stained impression upon the empty wall. The politics of school administration, bigotry and class conflict, and relationships impacted by her grief weave a tapestry of conflict and despair. 

With Passion Comes Purpose

Despite her mourning, Mareta finds purpose in helping one of her new students who reawakens her love of music.

Reminiscent of Sister Act 2, much of the action is driven by the choir’s challenges when they enter a prestigious choral competition. Mareta trains her students by sharing her Samoan culture, teaching them traditional songs and dances.

There is much to unpack in this film, sometimes funny, always tender. Tinā conveys the power of music as both a source of community and healing. Despite the undertones of loss, this is a story filled with hope.

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Copyright 2025 Maria Morera Johnson
Images: Canva