TENOR – MY NAME IS PATI played at SBIFF (Santa Barbara International Film Festival), and I had the opportunity to see it while attending the festival. Hereโs my spoiler-free take:
TENOR: MY NAME IS PATI traces the personal journey of New Zealand tenor Pene Pati alongside his brother, Amitai. While structurally straightforward, the film outshines its familiar documentary plot through the compelling presence and charisma of its protagonist, Pati.
What distinguishes the film is its blend of intimacy and performance. Moments of everyday playfulness, Mario Kart, shared humor, and brotherly warmth sit alongside reflections on a difficult childhood, guided by their father. This grounds the story in emotional honesty without tipping into sentimentality. The result is a portrait that feels deeply human.
Final Thought: TENOR: THE LIFE OF PATI is proof that real-life stories with passionate people can hit the highest notes.
TENOR – MY NAME IS PATI had its world premiere at SBIFF 2026 on Sun 2/8.
