Pacific Warriors

2015 • 93 minutes

About this movie

The tiny Pacific Island nations of Tonga, Fiji and Samoa reconnect with their warrior heritage and take on the giants of the rugby World Cup in this remarkable documentary feature uncovering the story of the greatest underdogs in professional sport. For the Pacific Islands the game of rugby has become the modern expression of their traditional warrior spirit. Their lightning fast, brutally physical, high risk style of rugby is legendary, making them every true fan’s favourite team wherever they play. But the reality behind the all-action sporting entertainment they provide is set against the unbelievable odds they go up against every time they play. Tonga arrives at the World Cup in France, its small talent pool having been culled from a total population that would barely fill one stadium, and given its limited resources, this fun loving band of brothers must train in public parks. But, during the tournament, Tonga pushes the boundaries of rugby to the limit on and off the pitch, nearly resulting in the greatest ever upset in professional sport and potentially changing the game forever. Although a Pacific Island team may not have won the World Cup just yet, in one important aspect the Islanders are victorious. Ask Jonny Wilkinson, Sir Clive Woodward or Serge Betsen where the greatest supply of raw talent comes from and the answer is unanimous - the tiny populations of the Pacific Islanders. Relatable to rugby fans and newcomers alike, and with contributions from the greats of rugby, Pacific Warriors is a unique, humorous and personal insight into two very contrasting worlds, all united in their passion for one sport.

Ratings and reviews

I absolutely enjoyed the entire documentary and is by far one of the best I've seen, but I could be bias =]. The best thing about it is that it recognises and at the same time applauds the contribution and impact players of South Pacific Islander backgrounds have on the world of rugby (7s, 15s, League). Fiji, Tonga and Samoa have definitely come a long way breeding some of the greatest rugby players of all times like Jonah Lomu, Rupeni Caucau, Lote Tuqiri, Tana Umaga, Israel Folau, Tuilagi brothers to name a few. Our islands maybe just dots on the world map surrounded by mostly ocean, but our big and brave fearless hearts, passion and love for our God, country, family and rugby is something I believe that is the ultimate weapon we have as an advantage compared to other rugby giant nations (not forgetting our XXL sizes too lol). Vinaka Vakalevu, Fa'afetai tele lava and Malo Aupito to our Pacific Warriors!!! WE ARE PROUD TO BE PACIFIC ISLANDERS! GOOD LUCK IN THE RUGBY WORLD CUP 2015 IN LONDON #PacificWarriors #MadeForRUGBY

This is a great movie for all audiences. It is great to see people like Jonny Wilkinson explain the pacific islanders contribution towards the game. Regardless of how small our pacific nations are, our hearts and desire to compete and win with next to no funding and just pride, is a tale of courage and respect. This is great, and shows grassroots rugby back in the islands. Without this, no Israel Folaus, Maa Nonus or Sonny Bill Williams would be lighting the world stage on fire. Go the pacific teams!

it was the best also because it has TONGA!!!!!