Aikane Short Film Review – Quietly Magical

by Sneha Jaiswal - Abstract AF - December 11, 2023:

Aikāne is a Hawaiian term meaning intimate friend of the same sex. Legendary figures, ruling chiefs, and commoners alike had aikāne as trusted partners.

The 2023 short animated film “Aikane” by Dean Hamer, Daniel Sousa, and Joe Wilson begins by providing an explanation of the title for viewers who may be unfamiliar with its meaning. What ensues is a beautifully shot, silent animated story set a few centuries ago in Hawaii, depicting its indigenous tribes facing an attack by colonizers. When an injured warrior falls off a cliff, he is rescued by a mystical being, leading to an immediate bond between them. However, the threat from colonizers persists, and they must unite to face this common adversary.

Approximately 14 minutes in duration, “Aikane” unravels as an epic fantasy romance, galloping at a brisk pace, encapsulating themes of colonial aggression, community harmony, gender fluidity, queer love, and the conflicts between humanity and nature within its short runtime. The animation bears a resemblance to Disney’s style, although the color palette isn’t overly bright and colorful, aligning with the somber themes explored in the story.

For international viewers unfamiliar with Hawaiian culture, history, and folklore, “Aikane” serves as a poignant reminder of how colonizers often impose their beliefs and religious values upon the regions they invade. Watching this film reminded me of a line I had recently bookmarked in a graphic novel by Paco Roca – “Don’t you think you should settle down?” Sometimes, we coupled-up folks catch ourselves saying things like this. We’re like missionaries trying to bring their stale moral teachings to happy, lustful indigenous peoples.

Even though there are no dialogues in “Aikane,” the storytelling is enhanced by its gripping background music, often peppered with ambient sounds such as the rhythmic waves, the clinking of swords and spears, gunshots, and the battle cries and grunts of warriors fighting against colonizers.

You can watch “Aikane” on YouTube.