Shaka: A Story of Aloha

"Shaka: A Story of Aloha" is an engaging documentary directed by Alexander Bocchieri and narrated by Steve Sue, exploring the history and global significance of the Shaka gesture. Through interviews, archival footage, and cultural insights, the film traces the symbol's origins, from Hawaii's North Shore to Japan's Buddhist temples and Brazil's beaches. It delves into various origin stories to highlight the Shaka's growth beyond surfing into a symbol of aloha and compassion.

The documentary excels in its storytelling, inviting viewers to reflect on the Shaka's deep cultural meaning and universal appeal. It portrays the gesture as a powerful emblem of solidarity, capable of creating paradise wherever it's shared. "Shaka: A Story of Aloha" is a must-watch for those interested in understanding the enduring legacy of this iconic symbol.

Excellent, Informative, Entertaining and Inspirational! I grew up in Hawaii, pursued a career on the mainland and travelled internationally. I attest that Hawaii has a special vibe of Aloha that brings people together, instead of focusing on differences. As I taught the Shaka gesture to people around the world, when they do the Shaka gesture , it is always accompanied by a smile. The world needs more smiles !

"Shaka, A Story of Aloha" is a good way for people outside of Hawaii to understand the meaning of the gesture and to use it to promote conflict resolution and peace.

Bravo and Thank you to Steve Sue! Aloha, Hang Loose, Be Kind......

The beauty and fascinating story telling of the movie make this a definitive exploration of something we all recognize, but don't really know - the Shaka. The passion and humility allows the people who embody the spirit of the Shaka to be the focus of an amazing history. My personal favorite is the retelling of the Hawaiian military members adaptation.

Yet, what makes this a uniquely powerful effort is the depth and care in portraying the impact of the Shaka. It feels like five films in one at each section showcases a key part of the Shaka philosophy and how it forms our daily life and brings us closer together. These are interwoven and you leave feeling a sense of hope- and it's fun.

I find myself watching all or part of it regularly, as you are not going to get all of the story or how it impacts you in one viewing.

Great job- 10 Shakas!

If you want a break from the negativity of the world right now, this is a must see. It's entertaining and informative. It reminds me that there still is a lot of good in the world. This is exactly what we all need right now! The interviewees are amazing and insightful. It made me feel connected to the past and present. The film pulls you in immediately and is engaging. The scenery is absolutely beautiful, too. I didn't realize how much I needed to see a positive work of art until I started watching this. This film is for everyone. You can watch it with the entire family and feel good about it. I highly recommend watching it!!!!

When you think of how widely used the Shaka hand gesture is used, you take it for granted similar to the gesture of the peace sign. To understand the origins and how it has spread worldwide and become such and iconic meaning behind various aspects of life and feeling as humans to show appreciation, winning and a symbol of feeling good between humans....it was a very interesting experience. To think that this came from a place isolated in the pacific is amazing. Would highly suggest watching to have a better understanding of the meaning behind the hand gesture. The interviews with the elders of the community were very insightful and glad they could participate and give the real life telling of their childhoods and how they remember the first use of the Shaka gesture.