Official Trailer
Synopsis
Lāhainā Rising is an award winning documentary delving into the life-altering events of August 8, 2023, when the historic town of Lāhainā, Maui, endured one of the most devastating wildfires in American history. The film takes you inside the fire in real-time, vividly capturing the chaos, suffering, and valiant efforts to combat the blaze that obliterated an entire town and displaced over 13,000 residents.
Lāhainā Rising is a locally-made, grassroots film, told and created by the generational families of Lāhainā for the community and for the world.
Narrative Arc
The film opens with a stirring spoken-word performance by renowned Hawaiian singer-songwriter Paula Fuga, as breathtaking scenes of Maui’s elemental beauty set the stage—lush rainforests, volcanic landscapes, and the sacred ocean—capturing the essence of an island beloved by many.
An animated sequence delves into the mythological origins of Hawai‘i, unveiling the deep-rooted connection between the land (ʻāina) and its people. This historical lens offers a profound understanding of the island’s cultural heritage, resilience, and the enduring struggle to protect its natural and ancestral legacy.
Then, chaos strikes. Flames erupt, engulfing Lāhainā. Through raw and harrowing footage, we witness the devastation unfold—families fleeing, homes consumed, and a historic town reduced to ashes. Amid the turmoil, we follow Paele Kaikona, a young Hawaiian activist, as he frantically searches for his grandmother while confronting the inferno. His personal story becomes the emotional core of the film, charting his journey from survivor to community leader.
As Maui grapples with the aftermath, the film shifts toward resilience and the fight for a just recovery. Paele and other local voices—first responders, traditional taro farmers, climate scientists, lawyers and public officials—offer perspectives on the disaster’s root causes: climate change, water mismanagement, corporate greed, and the erosion of indigenous stewardship. Their testimonies underscore the urgent need for a recovery led by local leaders—ensuring that issues of land, water, housing, and tourism are shaped by those who call Maui home.
Through powerful storytelling, the documentary becomes not just a chronicle of loss but a testament to the unyielding spirit of Lāhainā, illuminating a path toward healing, sovereignty, and a future where Hawaiians reclaim their place at the decision-making table.
The Fire of August 8, 2023
On that fateful day, the fire ravaged through Lāhainā, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake. Through harrowing community stories and police body cam footage archives, the documentary vividly captures the chaos, suffering, and valiant efforts to combat the blaze.
Community Resilience
The most compelling segment of the film is dedicated to the remarkable resiliency of the Lāhainā community. Despite minimal government assistance, the locals stepped up to rebuild and support each other, exemplifying an unyielding spirit. This narrative of communal strength and solidarity serves as a beacon of hope, symbolizing the potential for recovery and renewal.
Themes
Environmental Degradation
Impact of historical exploitation on present-day vulnerabilities.
Social Injustice
Examination of systemic issues exacerbating the disaster’s impact.
Community Resilience
Celebrating the indomitable spirit of the people of Lāhainā.
Hope and Recovery
Emphasizing the rebuilding process and envisioning a better future.
Conclusion
Lāhainā Rising is more than a documentary; it is a catalyst for change. By showcasing the community’s resilience amidst fire and destruction, the film sheds light on grassroots efforts for relief and recovery, inspiring hope and unity across generations of Hawaiians.
Lahaina’s journey toward sustainability and regeneration serves as both a beacon and a warning—igniting global conversations on building resilient communities in the face of climate change and adversity. Through powerful storytelling and compelling visuals, we seek to mobilize support for tangible action, drive critical policy changes in Maui and Hawai‘i at large, awakening a deeper understanding of the urgent need for collective action in addressing climate-related challenges and reimagining Maui’s regenerative future.
