Native Hawaiian Resistance Shorts
- 55 mins
Known as the “Paradise of the Pacific,” Hawaii’s beauty masks a history of political strife and the gradual erosion of indigenous rights. These films explore and reframe the past and present—from the overthrow of the Hawaiian monarchy to the more recent developments in Hawaii. By reenacting history, these filmmakers give voice to the past even as Hawaiians continue to speak their truths against U.S. colonialism and imperialism. Filmmakers expected to be in attendance for a post-film Q&A.
In this program
Hae Hawaiʻi
Directed by Ty Sanga
“Hae Hawaiʻi” is a historical drama that takes place during the overthrow of the Hawaiian monarchy.
Last Taxi Dance
Directed by Brayden Yoder
In the aftermath of World War II, a proud Hawaiian singer dances with a returned U.S. soldier and debates the dignity of the American Dream. But when the dancing stops, this man will die.
Down on the Sidewalk in Waikīkī
Directed by Justyn Ah Chong
A soft-spoken janitor, frustrated with cleaning up after an endless parade of tourists in Waikīkī, reflects on a traumatizing memory that stirs a voice from within.