What does the Shaka really mean—and where did it come from? In this episode of Filmmaker Mixer, filmmaker Steve Sue takes us inside his five-year documentary journey behind Shaka: A Story of Aloha, a playful investigative film tracing the origins of Hawaii’s most iconic hand gesture. From archival research and cultural storytelling to unexpected connections across surfing, pop culture, and history, Steve breaks down how the film was shaped, the challenges of long-form documentary production, and what filmmakers can learn about patience, curiosity, and narrative discovery. Perfect for filmmakers, film students, and documentary creators interested in investigative storytelling, cultural responsibility, and building a film from obsession to impact.
