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.
“Hae Hawaiʻi” is a historical drama that takes place during the overthrow of the Hawaiian monarchy.
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.
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.