Page 37 - Fiji Traveller 9

TV collaboration uncovers

untold history

By Ema Ganivatu Fiji’s official film commission, Film Fiji, has expressed its
support for the project, with Mokosoi working closely with them
A collaboration between Fiji and Australia is set to bring a to bring the creative vision to life. With nearly 20 years in the
powerful and untold historical story to the screen. industry, Mokosoi believes that the timing of the production
Unspoken, a joint production between Salt of the Earth is perfect for Fiji. “The story, the structure, and the way it can
Productions (SoTE) in Sydney and local Fijian filmmakers, tells benefit the film industry and economy here in Fiji—it’s exactly
the story of forbidden love and racial divides in colonial Fiji. what we need,” she said.
Led by Fiji-born, Melbourne-based writer-director Iva Tora,
Unspoken promises to be visually stunning and thought-
provoking, delving into a story that has long been left in the
shadows.
“Unspoken is about breaking barriers on screen and behind
the scenes,” says Tora, who aims to create a sustainable film
industry in Fiji where local talent can tell their stories.
“We’ve got grassroots stories here that are far more authentic,
but we need to get people skilled up and levelled up so that they
can start performing,” Tora explained in a recent interview with
Fiji Traveller.
Fijian filmmaker Lani Mokosoi is Unspoken’s production
manager, while Ateca Ravuvu leads the casting. Key roles in
sound, wardrobe, continuity, and assistant directing will see
experienced Australian crew members mentoring local talent,
helping build Fijian film industry's capacity.
“Unspoken shines a light on a history rarely discussed,” says
SoTE Producer Cinzia Guaraldi. “In colonial Fiji, strict racial
divides governed society. This show explores what happens
when love dares to defy those rules.” The production’s broader
goal is to elevate the local film industry. “We want to create and
give people skills and a voice, so they can continue telling their
own stories,” Tora adds.
The story takes place in 1995, with future episodes spanning
earlier years, and it reflects on the history and struggles of Fiji
under colonial rule. Tora envisions big opportunities for emerging
Fijian talent. “Can you imagine if women like Laisa, the main
lead, got the exposure they could get from this?” Tora asks. We
have beautiful, confident women here. Imagine if they had the
skills and exposure—they could make it big.”

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