WATERMAN, directed by filmmaker Isaac Halasima, will screen outdoors on Thursday, July 14 at Alethia Tanner Park | 227 Harry Thomas Way NE, Washington, DC 20002

The Opening Night program will kick off with performances by the Hawai'i State Society Ukulele Hui and Dancers, and Halau Ka’ahupuna. WATERMAN will be preceded by short films THE GREATEST POEM by filmmaker Elyse Kelly and ROOTED by filmmaker Mia Kami.

WATERMAN | SYNOPSIS

Five-time Olympic medalist and Native Hawaiian Duke Paoa Kahanamoku shattered records and brought surfing to the world while overcoming a lifetime of personal challenges. Waterman explores his journey and legacy as a legendary swimmer, trailblazer, and the undisputed father of modern-day surfing, following the sport’s first-time inclusion in this year’s Games – a fitting tribute to his work promoting the sport around the globe.

From modest roots in Waikiki, Duke swam his way to fame, becoming the face of a changing Hawai’i – and a vital part of its tourism industry – as it evolved from an independent Kingdom to the 50th American state. Yet relatively few outside Hawai’i know the full extent of Duke’s impact on sports, lifesaving, and combating prejudice.

Through Duke’s incredible athletic accomplishments, personal doctrine of aloha, and enduring gift of surfing to the world, the film explores a theme that still resonates today – the role of sports in breaking societal barriers – and celebrates his triumphs and philosophy of inclusion, challenging us all to embrace diversity and incorporate Aloha into our own lives.