| Summary: | Among the many dimensions of Samoa's rich cultural complex is the making and use of fragrant coconut oil. This film explores how the oil is made, the plants and trees from which fragrances are derived, the use of fragrant oils in rituals and events, and the economic potential of this important artisanal activity. As with many of the cultural expressions in Samoa, the making of fragrant oil is undergoing change with declining knowledge and availability of the fragrant plants and trees. Kigamoni (cinnamon) is becoming the fragrance of choice not for its enticing quality as a fragrance but simply because the tree, a recently introduced exotic, has spread quickly and is readily available throughout the country. Conversely, many native trees once favoured for their fragrances are becoming harder to find. With declining use comes declining knowledge of the trees. Bottled fragrant coconut oil or fagu u'u, is a popular commodity available at the markets in Apia and Salelologa and is often sold in Fanta and soy sauce bottles. As a part of the creative economy, this cottage industry contributes significantly to the social and economic well-being of society and this theme is explored towards the end of the film.
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