HONOLULU — Producer/writer Steve Sue is launching his new feature-length documentary, “Shaka, A Story of Aloha,” in a series of preview screenings through December at various locations throughout the islands.
The first sneak peek in the six-month series was June 20; the next one will take place at the Pacific Club on June 24. Upcoming screenings are limited to specific groups except for the Aug. 26 event hosted by Maui’s Lahaina Restoration Foundation, which will be shown outdoors and is open to the public.
After four years of planning and filming that took Sue throughout the state, the completed film will take audiences on an exploration of the origins, meanings and uses of the iconic hand gesture known throughout the world as a symbol of Hawaii.
In searching for the “secrets to what makes our island paradise a reality,” the film shares peoples’ beliefs and attitudes that anyone in every corner of the world can embrace to create their own paradise.
“Today, the shaka stands as a mecca of positivity, one of hope and inspiration, urging people to share the aloha spirit,” said Sue in a news release. “It’s a lesson from which the world may learn for generations to come, and this film aims to start a movement of aloha around the world.”
Sue is offering special sneak peek screening opportunities to companies, community organizations and schools throughout the world for free. They can invite employees, members, friends and family to preview the documentary before it enters the film festival circuit.
“Sneak peeks are not premieres, but rather test screenings of content in development, where we can include many people in the filmmaking process,” said Sue.
The special screenings require a minimum number of 50 attendees, as well as a large-format projection and sound system. Screenings include a viewing of the one-hour film, a moderated discussion with the filmmakers, a shaka photo wall, and a two-minute exit survey that will help ensure story accuracy and entertainment value.
Companies investing in Corporate Social Responsibility, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion or cultural awareness programs, as well as schools and nonprofit groups, should consider hosting a sneak peek, according to the release.
“After four long years, I’m excited to unveil this piece,” said Sue. “I’m hopeful that viewers will come away with a deeper understanding of the meanings behind the shaka and, in turn, use it in powerful ways to share and activate aloha around the world.”
Groups looking to host a free screening can find information by clicking “Host an Event” on the “Shaka” film website.
The film is in fundraising mode, so sponsors and donors are being sought to support the project with end credits and cameos available through the end of 2023, according to the release. Submission to film festivals and promotional outreach are planned for 2024.
The film is produced by the Hawaii-based nonprofit ID8 that was founded in 2012 with the goal of preserving Hawaiian history and sharing the spirit of aloha to create a positive movement in the world.
As a result of the film, several initiatives have come about — a thought leader summit series, school curriculum program, free Shaka sticker program, Shaka contest and a Shaka monument program. These, together with the film, are collectively called Project Shaka.
Sarah Yamanaka covers events, environmental and community news for Spectrum News Hawaii. She can be reached at sarah.yamanaka@charter.com.