New film chronicles life of late All Blacks star Jonah Lomu

A new biographical film about former All Blacks winger Jonah Lomu, the player who rose to global prominence during the 1995 Rugby World Cup, has been released despite objections from his family. Lomu’s widow, Nadene, filed a legal challenge in an attempt to block the project but was unsuccessful and chose not to participate in the production. The documentary includes the well‑known footage of Lomu’s decisive run over England full‑back Mike Catt in the 1995 semi‑final in Cape Town, a moment that remains one of the sport’s most iconic images.

The filmmakers say the movie seeks to present a broader view of Lomu’s life, exploring his health struggles and personal challenges beyond his on‑field achievements. Former All Blacks doctor John Mayhew, who treated Lomu, commented that the athlete “didn’t have the life he deserved” and questioned whether he ever found true happiness despite his talents. The release has sparked renewed discussion of Lomu’s legacy as both a rugby phenomenon and a figure whose rapid ascent to fame had profound personal consequences.