It’s been a long time since I last posted on this blog. I’ve been working hard to process and start to edit some of the material for the latest documentary on Tonga, which focuses on the healer, Emeline Lolohea,  the psychiatrist, Dr Mapa Puloka, and my relationship with both.

I’ve been really excited to see the success of Tongan Ark in film festivals worldwide. Every time I see it I get something more from it, and remember even more how remarkable Futa Helu was, how special Atenisi was and is, and how it needs our support.

My most recent productions have focussed on things very close to home, the community of Angsbacka in Sweden and the dance form of contact improvisation. I needed to ground myself in Europe in my filmmaking and improve my skills in editing and storytelling before I could turn back to my love of Tonga and my research there over the last 15 years.

So as soon as Five Ways is finished, then I’m planning to dedicate myself to finishing ‘The Healer and the Psychiatrist’. I look forward to it.