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.

Shaka, A story of Aloha presents a historical journey of the origins of the shaka hand gesture through its evolution to the present. What began as a hand sign amongst Hawaiian children, has matured and grown into a global gesture of friendly acknowledgement of another. This film journeys around the global relaying true stories and evidence of its positive impact on people.

Not only is the film educational in its factual and historical detail but also carries an inspirational message to spread Aloha. All with a simple hand gesture and a smile.

It is amazing how many smiles you can get from complete strangers simply by throwing them a shaka and giving them a smile. Not only will others respond with a smile, but you will find that it makes yourself feel better too.

They did a phenomenal job getting the real stories from the kanaka (the natives) by really spending time, listening, and immersing themselves in the heart of Hawaiian (and other) culture. I'm familiar with the Japanese and Buddhist customs but never thought of it more than the cultural norm but this film connects people, history, and multiple cultures into one ne beautifully told story layered with many other stories. How cool is it to share a small history of a small town from an island in the middle of the Pacific, just a speck on a map, in such a big way that it creates a tsunami size movement of Aloha through this simple gesture filled with SO much love!!

This movie is so much deeper than just a hand gesture and its origin. It leaves you wanting (to get to know) more.

Loved it!

Beautifully done. I loved the celebration of the diverse local island community, the global spread of positivity and all the varied theories on the gesture's origin and meaning.

The walk through history was beautiful, fun-loving, interesting and nostalgic. A touching love letter to the islands and lovely people who embody the best aspects of the local community and culture.

Whatever the root source of the gesture, and I think the film has helped me feel pretty confident of what that was, it's global impact is appreciated: a sign of love, aloha, gratitude, togetherness, "we got this" and RIGHT ON!

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!!!!