Refreshing voices

Reflecting on two films. Sinners, 2025. Directed by Ryan Coogler with Tinā, 2024. Directed by Miki Magasiva.

Recently I went to the cinemas to see Sinners and then more recently to see Tinā. 

Two very different films that probably have quite a small overlapping audience. 

Both of these films do something so profound. Not the type of profound that unexpectedly unsettles your foundations sending you out of the cinema dizzy with a spinning moral compass. 

I’m speaking of the type of profound that is instantly refreshing for you didn’t realise you were malnourished until the goodness of a fresh meal becomes the nutrients of vitality. 

These two films honour two unlikely voices.

Sinners. The deep, passionate, powerful voice of the Blues. The African voice which was forced to work on American land. Digging and walking and picking transposed to an entrancing lament. A voice that is determined and persistent. One that was strong though it was oppressed. 

Tinā. The smooth and sparkling song of Samoan traditional voice. Language and story, shared so generously as a precious gift. Sweetly telling of the beauties of the island in the company of true love. A voice that is united, sung with shared breath. 

What a treat for my ears.