First Samoan Feature Film
"O Tamaiti" (The Children), directed by Sima Urale, became the first Samoan feature film. The film gained international acclaim and highlighted the potential of Samoan storytelling through cinema.
1998
2000
Samoa Film Commission Established
The Samoa Film Commission was established to promote and support the development of the film industry in Samoa.
2003
International Recognition
"The Orator" (O Le Tulafale), directed by Tusi Tamasese, received international recognition, winning awards at the Venice Film Festival and showcasing Samoan culture and language on a global platform.
2005
Samoa Film Festival Launched
The Samoa Film Festival was launched to celebrate and promote local filmmakers and their work, providing a platform for showcasing Samoan cinema.
2008
First Samoan Documentary
"Tupaia's Endeavour," a documentary about the Polynesian navigator Tupaia, was produced, marking an important step in Samoan documentary filmmaking.
2011
The Orator Released
"The Orator" (O Le Tulafale) was released, becoming the first Samoan film to be submitted for the Best Foreign Language Film category at the Academy Awards.
2013
Samoa Film Society Formed
The Samoa Film Society was formed to support and nurture the growth of the film industry in Samoa, providing resources and networking opportunities for filmmakers.
2015
International Film Collaborations
Samoan filmmakers began collaborating with international production companies, leading to co-productions that brought Samoan stories to a wider audience.
2017
Cinema of Samoa Documentary
"Cinema of Samoa," a documentary exploring the history and development of Samoan cinema, was released, providing insights into the industry and its impact on Samoan culture.
2018
Samoan Films in International Festivals
Several Samoan films were featured in international film festivals, showcasing the talent and creativity of Samoan filmmakers on a global stage.
2019
Digital Cinematic Advancements
The adoption of digital technology in film production enhanced the quality and accessibility of Samoan films, leading to increased output and diversity in content.
2020
COVID-19 Impact
The COVID-19 pandemic affected the film industry worldwide, including Samoa. Filmmakers adapted by exploring new distribution methods, such as online streaming platforms.
2021
Revival of Samoan Cinema
Post-pandemic, there was a revival in the Samoan film industry, with new projects and initiatives aimed at revitalizing cinema in Samoa.
2022
Samoan Film Academy Established
The Samoan Film Academy was established to provide formal education and training for aspiring filmmakers, fostering the next generation of Samoan talent.
2023
Major Film Release
"Vasa," a major Samoan film, was released, receiving critical acclaim and further establishing Samoa's presence in the international film industry.
2024
Samoa Hosts International Film Festival
For the first time, Samoa hosted an international film festival, attracting filmmakers and audiences from around the world and highlighting the country's cinematic achievements.
