The Hawaiians

The Hawaiians is a 1970 drama film directed by Tom Gries and starring Charlton Heston, Tina Chen, and Geraldine Chaplin. The story is a sequel to the 1966 film Hawaii and is based on the second book of James A. Michener's Tales of the South Pacific.

Set in the mid-19th century, the film follows the lives of several characters as they navigate the changing political and social landscape of Hawaii. Heston plays Whip Hoxworth, a wealthy and ambitious businessman who has made his fortune in the sugar plantations of Hawaii. Chen plays Nyuk Tsin, a Chinese immigrant who becomes Hoxworth's mistress and later wife. Chaplin plays Purity, a haole (Caucasian) woman who is in love with a native Hawaiian named Noel (played by John Phillip Law).

The film explores the tensions between the different ethnic groups in Hawaii at the time, including the native Hawaiians, Chinese immigrants, Japanese immigrants, and haole plantation owners. It also delves into the conflicts arising from the increasing American influence in Hawaii, as the United States government looks to annex the islands.

One of the central themes of the film is the exploitation of the native Hawaiian people by the sugar barons. Hoxworth is portrayed as ruthless and unscrupulous, willing to do whatever it takes to increase his profits, even if it means exploiting and oppressing the native Hawaiian workers on his plantations. This is contrasted with Noel, who represents the voice of the native Hawaiians, fighting for their rights and dignity in the face of oppression.

Alongside the social and political commentary, the film also explores the personal relationships between the characters. Whip's relationship with Nyuk is complex and often strained, as they come from very different backgrounds and have different priorities and values. Nyuk is torn between her love for Whip and her loyalty to her Chinese heritage and family.

Purity and Noel's relationship is also fraught with difficulties, as they come from different ethnic backgrounds and have to navigate the prejudices and expectations of their respective communities. Purity's haole background makes her an outsider in Hawaiian society, while Noel's activism makes him a target for the plantation owners and their allies.

The film is visually stunning, with breathtaking landscapes and colorful costumes that capture the beauty and diversity of Hawaii. The score, composed by Henry Mancini, is also a highlight, with its haunting melodies and exotic influences.

Overall, The Hawaiians is a thought-provoking and engaging drama that explores the complexities of race, class, and identity in a rapidly changing society. With its strong performances, beautiful cinematography, and powerful themes, it remains an important and compelling work of cinema.