A Reel Retro Review: HAWAII (1966)

With no new films to review for the foreseeable future, Reel Speak will randomly review a classic film from the TCM library every week. Not just for the sake of filling time, but to hopefully introduce some overlooked and perhaps forgotten screen gems from the past to those of us who may be unfamiliar or unawares of their existence. 

One of the great joys of digging through films of the long past is discovering a movie packed with Hollywood legends before they were known as legends. One such example is George Roy Hill’s 1966 epic drama and Oscar nominee, HAWAII. 

The year is 1819. Newly ordained minister Reverend Abner Hale (Max von Sydow), volunteers to bring Christianity to the islands of Hawaii. After meeting the requirement of being married, he takes his new bride Jerusha (Julie Andrews), and a group of missionaries which includes his friend Dr. John Whipple (Gene Hackman). Once on the island, Abner deals with a clash of cultures and the arrival of Jerusha’s former suitor; whaling Captain Hoxworth (Richard Harris). 

Based on the 1959 novel of the same name by James A. Michener, HAWAII is centered on Abner’s cold and unrelenting faith and strict interpretations of the Bible, where even his love and affection for his own wife can be considered sinful. This creates tension between Abner and Jerusha, which makes the good Reverend’s life all the more stressful as he tries his hardest to teach, or hammer into the heads of the natives the word of God. Abner is resolute and relentless in his mission, going as far as eradicating thousands of years of Hawaiian tradition and beliefs. The arrival of Captain Hoxworth and his rowdy crew makes things even more difficult, and Abner finds himself in a battle on many fronts. HAWAII ultimately is a story of one man’s indomitable faith, one that deflects every stone cast. At the heart of it is Jerusha, who remains faithful despite many hardships. 

Directed by George Roy Hill, HAWAII films the island beautifully and in all of its glory. The sea-crossing, which includes high waves and a nearly flooded ship, is executed very well and is impressive for 1960’s standards. Elmer Bernstein’s score is excellent. 

Acting is also excellent from the ensemble cast. Max von Sydow commands the screen, and finds a balance between protagonist and villain. The great Julie Andrews is wonderful as always, and a scene where she painfully gives birth without medication shows her great range. Gene Hackman is his usual great self, and Richard Harris nearly unrecognizable as a young sea captain. Carrol O’Connor, years before he would become Archie Bunker, comes in as Jerusha’s father and is a treat. 

HAWAII ends as a tragic film, but as any good tragedy should do, offers a ray of hope. Faith, culture, and family are its explored themes and each one serves as an excellent backdrop in what finishes as an impactful story. At 189 minutes it is indeed epic, and worthy of that name. 

BOTTOM LINE: See it 

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HAWAII would be nominated for seven Oscars, including Best Supporting Actress for Hawaiian actress Jocelyne LaGarde, who was in her first film role. She would win a Golden Globe in that category. Director George Roy Hill would go on to direct BUTCH CASSIDY AND THE SUNDANCE KID (1969), and THE STING (1973). Entertainment legend Bette Midler makes her first film appearance here.