KÜĪ (Mother)

KAKAIA PRODUCTIONS PRESENTS: "KÜĪ" Short Film

Inspired by the writer's lived experience, KÜĪ, a 10-year-old girl learns the harsh reality of her absent mother when their single father forgets to pick her and her brothers up from school.

WRITER/PRODUCER Carrisse Uta'i

DIRECTOR Kahu Kaiha

WHAT MAKES THIS FILM SPECIAL?

The story is set in the writer's hometown of South Auckland, specifically in Manurewa and Papatoetoe. The dialogue in the story is entirely in Marquesan and Sāmoan languages, reflecting the cultural backgrounds of both the writer and director. The cast includes four indigenous children aged 5 to 12, with the role of the father portrayed by Marquesan artist Tekuhei Kaiha. To assist the director, an acting coach has been included. The story centers around a family led by a single father, with a strong female protagonist.

THEMES:

Motherhood - When her mother left, Küī subconsciously took on the role of a mother figure due to her love for her family.

Men's Mental Health - Mera, the father, heartbroken and questioning his ability to care for his children alone, resorts to alcohol to numb his emotions.

Love for Family - Despite facing challenging circumstances, Küī steps up and becomes the protector for her three younger brothers and her struggling father. They draw strength from each other and move forward as a strong family unit.

HOW YOU CAN HELP US

Your contribution will help us cover the fees for our cast and crew, film festival submissions, and location permits. This support will enable us to achieve our vision and bring justice to our story. We are grateful to collaborate with local emerging and established Pacific and Pan Asian screen artists. 

ABOUT US - KAKAIA PRODUCTIONS:

KAKAIA Productions, founded by Carrisse Uta'i and Kahu Kaiha, builds upon the success of their first short film "Find Where I Belong" (FIFO - Best Oceana Short Film, Fiction). With Carrisse's diverse Samoan, Tuvalu, Cook Island, and German heritage, and Kahu's Marquesan and Chinese background, they infuse their films with unique cultural elements, offering a fresh perspective to audiences. Their goal is to share their cultural perspective with the world and raise awareness about Pacific social issues.

To learn more about us and about "KÜĪ", please visit our Instagram and Facebook social pages.

Fa'afetai tele lava, Vaiè nui.