When we started working on ‘Soli Bula’ back in the heyday of COVID19, 2021, the last thing I thought about was having this film seen in a packed cinema, with Fijians from far and wide witnessing our hard work on the big screen. Back then, I was just focused on making sure we got through our production deadlines.

A year and change later and we’ve just finished the Fiji screening at Damodar Cinemas, Wednesday last week, May 10th. And it was quite an event.

Putting together a movie screening event, complete with an MC, meke performances and video presentations is quite a task. And honestly I’d be dead if it wasn’t for the amazing help that has been afforded to me. So, a shoutout is in order:

* Vinaka to our crew of family and friends who helped organise and ensure the event ran as smoothly as it could – my daughter Sisilia and newphew Ayman for handling tickets at the front door. My wife Verdine for keeping me up to date with what was happening and taking photos. The MC for the evening, Alisi, for being the glue that held all the various pieces of items together.

* Vinaka to my friends and family who showed up to support – seeing familiar faces in the crowd really helped lift my spirits and let me know that I was presenting to a room full of gang who knew me, and I, them.

* Vinaka to Peni and the crew of Dolce Sounds for providing the immaculate meke performances for the night.

* Vinaka to all you gang who bought tickets without knowing who I was, but wanted to check this event out anyways. Your support really means a lot to me, and to other creatives in Fiji, that there are Fijians who do want to support the arts, no matter what form it is.