Mana I Ka Leo

Album Notes

Also available in BLU-RAY

Mana I Ka Leo Power of the Voice is a film that examines oli, the Hawaiian tradition of chant through the eyes of 3 contemporary practitioners who have dedicated much of their lives to preserving and perpetuating the voices and words of their kupuna.

It takes the audience on a visual journey through some of the most majestic locations in Hawaii as you become mesmerized by the power of the words. You don’t need to know what they mean; you will feel the chanters emotion and be moved by it.

Featuring Hokulani Holt from the island Maui where she spends the end of her day in Makena conversing with the setting sun. Dr. Kamana`opono Crabbe from the island of O`ahu who shares how oli has helped him understand the Hawaiian worldview prior to western influence and why it’s important that he continues to pass on this knowledge today. Be moved by the drama and depth of knowledge from young Kaumakaiwa Kanaka`ole as he describes his obligation to follow the fire. His generational commitment to maintain and preserve the knowledge he has in oli ensures the ancestral memories are secure in the next generation.

Finally you will be inspired by the young voices who carry on these traditions, for in those voices are the words and insight of our kupuna.

Filmed in stunning high definition at locations revered to our practitioners, the film gives the audience a rare in-depth glimpse at this sacred tradition.

HIFF Audience Award Winner Favorite Short Film of the 2010 Hawaii International Film Festival