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Samoan actor appeals to men to stop domestic violence

 Tuiasau appeals to Samoan men to stop domestic violence [Photo: Supplied/ Bright Sunday via RNZI]

A plea to the heads of Samoan families or matai to take the lead against domestic violence has come from the lead actor in the critically acclaimed movie One Thousand Ropes.

Tuiasau Uelese Petaia, who plays the central character, Maea, has urged matai to speak for "sisters" against the big problem of domestic violence.

Tuiasau, himself a matai is hoping for change.

He said Samoan men depend too much on their fists to rule their families at the detriment of wives, daughters, sons and our extended family.

Tuiasau addressed the crowds that attended this week's gala premiere of the movie, an audience that included Samoa's Head of State Tuiatua Tupua Tamasese Efi and dignitaries of the Samoan community.

Tuiasau continued to encourage men who had gathered to see the movie to go back and talk to male friends, sons and brothers.

He said it was time that we moved on and live in harmony with our families and our loved ones.

One Thousand Ropes tells the story of a man alienated from loved ones by his violence, whose daughter turns up in his flat with injuries from a beating from her boyfriend.