A powerful new documentary chronicling the life and legacy of rugby icon Jonah Lomu is set to premiere in Aotearoa, following international debuts at major film festivals.
LOMU will screen as the Centrepiece film at the 2026 Whānau Mārama New Zealand International Film Festival, marking its homecoming after premiering in Dublin earlier this year and ahead of its Australian debut at the Sydney Film Festival in June.
The feature documentary traces Lomu’s journey from South Auckland to global sporting stardom, capturing the rise of one of rugby’s most transformative figures. Widely regarded as one of the greatest players in the history of the game, Lomu redefined rugby with his unique combination of size, speed, and power, becoming an international sensation in his teenage years.
The film explores both his public achievements and private struggles, drawing on interviews with family, friends, teammates, and coaches, alongside rare archival footage. It highlights the cultural impact of Lomu’s success, particularly for Pasifika communities, where he became a symbol of pride and possibility.
Central to the story is the tension between global fame and personal challenges, including a serious kidney illness that affected much of his career. The documentary follows his rise through to the 1995 Rugby World Cup, where his performances reshaped the sport’s global profile.
Directed by Vea Mafile’o and Gavin Fitzgerald, the film places strong emphasis on identity, faith, and resilience, reflecting the values that shaped Lomu’s life both on and off the field.
Produced as a New Zealand and international co-production, the film has received support from the New Zealand Film Commission and other industry partners, reinforcing its significance as both a sporting and cultural story.
The New Zealand premiere will take place at Auckland’s Civic Theatre in August, with additional screenings across the country to be announced.
LOMU is being positioned as more than a sports documentary, offering a deeply human story about legacy, expectation, and the enduring influence of one of Aotearoa’s most iconic figures.
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