LOMU: New doco paints a deeply personal portrait

Jonah Lomu's explosive performances at the 1995 Rugby World Cup transformed the sport, making him one of the first truly global rugby superstars and inspiring millions. But while the world knew the powerhouse wearing the All Blacks jersey, far fewer knew the man behind the legend. LOMU is a new feature documentary that sets out to tell the deeply personal story of Jonah's life, exploring his Tongan heritage, his family, the pressures of fame, and the health battles that shaped his final years. It'll make its New Zealand debut at the New Zealand International Film Festival in Auckland on August first. LOMU is co-directed by Tongan-Kiwi filmmaker Vea Mafile'o, whose previous work has focused on powerful Pasifika stories. Along with Irish filmmaker Gavin Fitzgerald, she's drawn on extensive archive footage and intimate interviews with those who knew Jonah best.