A new PNG film – Lukim Yu will be premiering next week at the paradise Cinema.
This is the first film to focus on the daily lives of young, urban Papua New Guineans.
Lukim Yu, is shot in PNG using exclusively PNG actors and produced by a Canadian named Chris Anderson.
The film stars are talented, up and coming actors, and for most of them, Lukim Yu is their cinematic debut.
There are some familiar faces from PNG Television, including Tinzey Mau from EMTV's Vocal Fusion, and Russell "Frogi Boy" Ashwin.
The male lead is an exception actor - Godfree Kaptigau, who is surrounded by a strong supporting cast, including Fabian Hera and Pauline Onsa, all of whom have theatrical experience with the Moresby Arts Theatre.
The story centres around 4 young people living in Port Moresby, PNG’s capital city:
- John, who works as a gardener to pay his way through university. He is a deep thinker who likes to look at life from a different angle.
- Melissa, a student, and the daughter of a wealthy family. She is strong-willed and doesn't suffer fools.
- Jimmy, a Rugby League player who loves to have a good time, which sometimes leads to mischief.
- Maria, Jimmy's girlfriend who works in a shop, where they met an unpolished gem, with a heart of gold.
The film tracks their highs and their lows as they face formidable challenges and yet rise above them.
It is a story of hope - of the aspirations of young people for a better future.
* The story begins with John and Melissa meeting and finding immediately that they disagree about everything. Melissa can't believe her ears at first and yet she can't help but be intrigued by John's ideas. So she continues talking to him, even when forbidden by her controlling mother.
* In addition to the themes of intergenerational change and gender equality, the film addresses topics such as violence, sorcery and arranged marriage.
Lukim Yu will be premiered on September 8 at the Paradise Cinemas.
Picture: Paradise Cinema