Watch The Islanders

The Islanders is a spiritual and educational series produced by Gaia that explores the island of Kauai and the native Hawaiian culture. The show consists of 12 episodes, each ranging from 30 to 60 minutes in length. The Islanders is unique in its approach of showcasing the island life and beliefs of the indigenous people of Hawaii, the Kanaka Maoli. The show focuses on sharing the traditional Hawaiian knowledge through storytelling, personal experiences, cultural practices, and mythology. The series aims to take the viewers on a deep journey of understanding and appreciating the ancient Hawaiian culture and its way of life.

The show is filmed exclusively on Kauai, an island known for its natural beauty and unique biodiversity. The camera work is stunning, capturing the island's landscapes, people, and culture with immersive and cinematic shots. The show is narrated by indigenous Hawaiian elders, who tell their stories and share their deep-rooted beliefs with the audience. The Islanders is also unique in the way it takes an educational approach, providing viewers with interesting facts and knowledge about the Hawaiian ecosystem, flora, and fauna.

The first episode starts with an overview of the island's history and the deep-rooted relationship that the Kanaka Maoli have with their land. The show then explores different aspects of the Hawaiian culture in each episode, such as spirituality, gardening, fishing, and weaving.

One of the stand-out episodes is centered around Makana, Hawaiian chant, and music. The episode takes the viewers on a journey of different Hawaiian chants and the meanings behind them. It also shows how the chants are performed with traditional instruments and dance. The episode highlights how important the chants are to the Hawaiian culture, conveying stories of ancestors and history through music, language, and song.

Another informing episode focuses on the art of making Kapa, or bark-cloth, which is the traditional method of making textiles in Hawaii. The episode explores the history and cultural significance of Kapa and how it was almost completely lost until a few special people started reviving the practice. The episode delves into the process of making Kapa, from harvesting the bark of the Wauke plant to stripping, beating, and dying the cloth. The episode also highlights how the practice of Kapa making has become a way to promote the culture of Hawaii and provide an economic opportunity for the local people.

The Islanders is not just a show about Hawaii and its culture, but it's also an immersive experience that connects the viewers to the island and its people. Each episode leaves the viewers with a deep sense of appreciation and respect for the Kanaka Maoli and their way of life. The Islanders truly showcases the power of storytelling and how it can be used to teach, inspire, and connect people from different cultures and backgrounds.

In conclusion, The Islanders is a beautiful and inspiring show that offers a unique and authentic insight into the Hawaiian culture. The show is beautifully filmed, and the narrations by the Hawaiian elders give it a personal touch. The series is also educational, offering valuable knowledge about the island's flora and fauna, and cultural practices. The Islanders is a must-watch for anyone interested in learning about the Hawaiian culture, spirituality, and way of life.