We were lucky to have tickets to the world premiere of this film and there legit isn't enough kind words that could be said about this film.
Firstly, the performances are amazing. A lot of the film rests on the shoulders of Robyn Patterson, and admittedly at first there's a slight trepidation to the choices she makes for the situations her character is in. But it soon becomes apparent how intentional this all is and how it culminates in the shifts of mental states that her character goes through.
Hannah Martin also shines along side her. The chemistry between the two is rare in a lot of romantic films. The supporting cast all have some amazing moments, and honestly picking out a performance from them is impossible. They all shine at certain points and round the film out perfectly.
The editing blends the scenes adeptly, and the cinematography really shines. The score is beautiful, and the sets really bring the film, and New Zealand, to life.
But the real star is the people behind it. The film is obviously close to their heart, and while there could be a certain level of hubris that a writer/director could unintentionally put into a film about their own life, there's none of that. Si'ulepa doesn't shy away from telling her story, embracing the bad parts, and in typical kiwi style, making light of these dark situations. She doesn't make herself or anyone else in this film unbelievable, and the level of realism is refreshing. The production levels are also evident of money well spent, and Wills had produced something to be beyond proud of.
Is this a film for everyone? In a lot of ways, yes. It's a hilarious romp that tells the type of love story that Hollywood seems to be afraid of making. I'd struggle to see how someone couldn't get any enjoyment out of it.
