Congratulations Barbarian Princess! Although the Star of the film, Q'orianka Kilchner, has too much integrity to even say the name of the film; and despite the misrepresentation of Hawaiian history within the film, and the anger you've created amongst the Hawaiians and all people who cherish truth, you will likely receive an award from the Honolulu International Film Festival this year. Congrats!
But forever the award this year will be tarnished by the fact that the film that conveys truth, honesty, and integrity, was omitted from HIFF despite being presented the Audience Award - Best Hawaii Film at this year's Maui Film Festival. Hawaii A Voice For Sovereignty, Catherine Bauknight's award winning documentary film was rejected by HIFF. Why? Most likely because the Hawaii International Film Festival did not want an independent, documentary film winning an prestigious award over a local production company. Certainly can't blame HIFF. Their goal is to promote local film production, aka money, commercialism. This has long been how the Hawaiians and their beautiful aina have been treated and abused. Commercial value and military strategicness always trumps integrity and truth!
When asked to comment filmmaker Catherine Bauknight said:
"The power to speak the truth is our gift as humans. That is the greatness and power of the film, Hawaii A Voice For Sovereignty. In the film the Hawaiians speak the truth about the pain they've experienced, the present renaissance of their culture, and their plans for a sustainable future. The fact that Q'orianka Kilchner will not even speak the name of the film tells us she is a woman of integrity who values truth. Her heart is pono. We have our path and our journey is set. The road is paved of truth and justice for all all who realize that these qualities can not be measured in gold."
So, how might the Hawaiians respond? No doubt in a classic Hawaiian fashion. They will look to the film whose name we should not speak, know that it portrays the Hawaiians as lazy, undeserving, helpless beings; and they will no doubt accept it with the dignity of the incredible people they are. AND, they will forever know the truth. They will continue their quest for freedom, independence and sovereignty, as their magnificent Queen,
Her Majesty Queen Liliu'okalani, has taught them: though peace and civility, with compassion, sympathy, and understanding for those lesser minds amongst us who value palapala more than truth, honesty and justice. Trading the Kanaka Maoli for palapala and an award that pales in comparison to truth and integrity is your kuleana. Your actions will only strenghten their resolve...as the God loving, intelligent, civilized people they are!
While I can say Malama pono to Q'orianka Kilchner, to the makers of that other film I will say,
Aloha Ke Akua.
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