Oscar Kightley Interview — Voices Of The Pacific
BuzzFeed: Sione's Wedding is one of my favorite Pacific Islander films of all time. The movie has certainly cemented its place in pop culture — Duck Rockers for life! Did you know when you were writing it that it would turn out to be such a big hit?
Do you have any favorite behind-the-scenes memories during those days of filming?
For many of us in the US, Sione's Wedding was one of the first times we saw ourselves represented in film, so it still holds such a special place in our hearts! I especially appreciated how you portrayed Albert because he was a bit nerdy like me. What connected you to that character?
Have you ever faced challenges in your career as a Pacific Islander? If so, how did you overcome them?
When I look at your incredible career, from the Naked Samoans to bro'Town to your films, it's clear that you often combine Pacific Islander representation with comedy. Why is that important to you?
You've appeared in several Taika Waititi movies, including Hunt for the Wilderpeople and Next Goal Wins. How would you describe him as a director?
For Pacific Islanders, there are so many aspects of our cultures that we hold close to our hearts, from our foods to our dances to our tattoos. What's your favorite part of your culture?
Do you have a favorite Samoan food?
We touched on this earlier, but you actually got your start in show biz through theater. You've formed several Pacific Islander theater companies and written numerous plays, including Dawn Raids. The play raises awareness of the racist New Zealand police raids that targeted Pacific Islanders in the '70s and led to deportations and widespread fear throughout the community. Can you speak to your personal experiences that informed the play?
In addition to your writing, you're politically active in your daily life. You've encouraged people to vote, joined your local board, are involved with the Pacific Islander organization Cause Collective, and were present during the New Zealand government's apology for the dawn raids. As far as activism goes, what's your proudest moment?
You were appointed a member of the New Zealand Order of Merit for your services to television and theatre. What did that recognition mean to you?
What do you want your legacy to be, and how do you hope future generations will remember your contributions to Pacific Islander history?
What advice do you have for young Pacific Islander creatives?
And finally, what does being Pacific Islander mean to you?
Thanks for chatting with us, Oscar!
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