Suzy Cato makes movie debut with John Paul Foliaki in NZ's feel good film of the year 'Red, White, and Brass'

New Zealand's newest feel-good movie is here, and it's hitting all the right notes.

Red, White, and Brass tells the inspiring story of Maka, a Tongan rugby superfan, who promises to deliver a brass band for the pre-match entertainment of the Tonga vs France Rugby World Cup game. The only catch? There is no band, and Maka has only six weeks to create one. 

This true story was inspired by the Rugby World Cup and the City Council's desire to make Wellington the "coolest little capital in the world." As John Paul Foliaki, who plays a lead role in the film, explains, Maka's church offered to perform for free tickets but had no brass band. So Maka, along with the help of a Tongan musician who was the only person in the church who knew how to play a brass instrument, taught the entire church in just four weeks. 

Photo / Supplied

The film is a perfect blend of Kiwi and Tongan culture, making it a must-watch for anyone who loves feel-good movies. "Especially with everything that's been happening in the last few years, even as recent weeks and months with the cyclone," Foliaki says. "I think it's good for us to have a feel-good movie that everyone can come to." 

The movie stars the beloved Suzy Cato, who makes her movie debut in Red, White, and Brass. "I've never done anything like this before, so anytime that you push your boundaries and give yourself a new opportunity, you know you get the butterflies," Cato says. "It's about giving yourself a go." 

With its heartwarming message and charming cast, Red, White and Brass is the perfect movie to lift your spirits. So grab some popcorn, sit back, and get ready to be entertained.