TANNA

Romantic / Drama / Adventure
Australia / Vanuatu, 2015, 100 min

Directed by: Bentley Dean, Martin Butler
Screenplay: John Collee, Bentley Dean, Martin Butler
Cast: Mungau Dain, Marie Wawa, Marceline Rofit, náčelník Charlie Kahla, Albi Nangia, Lingai Kowia, Dadwa Mungau, Linette Yowayin, Kapan Cook, náčelník Mungau Yokay, náčelník Mikum Tainakou

Far from the modern world, in one of the last traditional tribes in the South Pacific, a young girl, Wawa, falls in love with her chief’s grandson, Dain. When an inter-tribal war escalates, Wawa is betrothed as part of a peace deal to another man. The young lovers run away, but are pursued by enemy warriors. They must choose between their hearts and the peaceful future of the tribe. Based on a true story, which is narrated by the inhabitants of the tiny volcanic island Tanna. The unique narrative debut from Australian documentary team Bentley Dean and Martin Butler is made in beautiful natural scenery and with native people in the leading roles. It is told with captivating simplicity whilst remaining richly cinematic, combining ethnographic and spiritual aspects of a little-known culture.

Festivals and Awards:
Venice Film Festival (2015) – Best Cinematography and Audience Award
London Film Festival (2015)
International Film Festival Rotterdam (2016)
Australian Directors Guild Awards (2016) – Best Director Award
Australian Film Critics Association Awards Nomination (2016)
Film Critics Circle of Australia Awards (2016) – Best Music Award
3 Film Critics Circle of Australia Awards nominations (2016)