MORE than 40 years after it first appeared on the big screen, Tukana – Husat i Asua has returned to Bougainville, bringing communities together to remember a film that has become part of the region’s cultural history.
The film, one of Papua New Guinea’s earliest feature films, was screened in Tinputz, Buka, Arawa and Buin in late July and early August following its digital restoration.
For many people, the screenings were more than just an opportunity to watch an old film. They were a chance to reconnect with Bougainville’s past and remember the people who helped tell its stories.
The tour began in Tinputz, the home of the late Albert Toro, who wrote, directed and starred in the film.
Family members, friends and community members gathered at Bougainville Technical College to remember Toro and acknowledge his contribution to filmmaking and storytelling in Bougainville.
Young people who attended the screening also found lessons in the film that remain relevant today.
One of them, Willie Oscar, said Tukana reminded young people of the importance of listening to their parents and elders.
“After watching Tukana, the message for young people today is to respect and listen to our parents and elders, so we can learn from their experiences and build a better future,” Oscar said.
He said the film also encouraged young people to value education, respect their culture and traditions, pursue their dreams and remain connected to their roots.
Australian High Commission Minister-Counsellor Madeleine Moss said restoring the film meant an important part of Bougainville’s history could continue to be shared with future generations.
The screening tour was supported by the Autonomous Bougainville Government through the Bougainville Arts, Culture and Tourism Authority, together with the Australian Government.
Originally released in 1982, Tukana – Husat i Asua remains an important part of Papua New Guinea’s film history.
The film was digitally restored by the National Film and
Sound Archive of Australia in partnership with Spectrum Films and later gifted to Papua New Guinea’s National Film Institute as part of the country’s 50th Independence anniversary celebrations.