Synopsis - PUMP UP the mandali

Four poor boys from a Fijian village struggle to reconcile with their lives, after floods devastate their village and their music hall ending their dreams of becoming professional musicians. They win a radio contest in Fiji to enter an international music and dance competition in Auckland, New Zealand. But their joys are shortlived - they have no money to buy flight tickets nor accommodation. Through begging, borrowing and betting; and with some help from unexpected village sources, they embark on their dream trip to Auckland.

In Auckland they are accommodated with the help of some friends. They interact with two professional Indian girls who happen to be their flatmate’s. The girls are not so taken in by the boys’ folk music and rustic appearance. They are irritated by the manadali’s late night practice sessions and constantly berate them.

They manage to win the semi-finals by a narrow margin when an Indian judge gives them extra points for their vocal talent. But the audience is not impressed by their village ragas and flavour; the other team from New Zealand who dance and sing to a more modern music beat are hot favourites.

The boys are dejected and fearing ridicule and shame, they decide to give up and quietly return to their village. As they prepare to leave, they are accosted by their two flatmates (Indian Girls) who motivate them to face up to the challenge. They are convinced and decide to stay on and fight.

After a radical make-over to their appearance and music style created by the girls with help of a music teacher, a fifth mandali mate unexpectedly joins them. They are shocked when they are assaulted by the goons supporting opposition team and even implicated in possession of drugs. With the help of friends, neighbours and cops, they manage to enter the final showdown.

Their unique performance of rustic and modern mix wins the support of a suprised audience. One of the judge’s who was bribed by the opposition has a change of heart after seeing the wide public support. Having won the prize they emotionally break down on the stage. They choose to give their trophy to the local talented runners up, but they keep the financial rewards and pledge to re-build the music mandali hall in their village and repay their debts to the villagers.

Seeing their dedication and desperation, some of the audience come forward to donate to their noble case. The opposition local team also offer their prize money.

Having returned to their village, their guru who is not impressed by their modern style has a change of heart after listening to their PUMPED UP music!

Tone of Film

The emphasis is on the musical blend of tradition folk songs and modern pop/hip hop.
This light hearted and emotional drama with it’s groovy and slick dance sequances will entertain all
genre of the public. With 5 entertaining musical numbers this film will be a treat to watch.
Another first of its kind from New Zealand.