The film “Sharing Aloha” recently secured the top award for Best Documentary Feature at the 2025 Zions Indie Film Fest, shortly after its debut at the Scera Center for the Arts in Utah. This documentary highlights the Polynesian Cultural Center and BYU-Hawaii, while also delving into the historical significance of their location, which was formerly a “pu‘uhonua”, or sanctuary—a refuge for those seeking forgiveness and protection in ancient Hawaii.
Elder D. Todd Christofferson of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles spoke about Laie’s rich history as a haven during his recent campus devotional. He pointed out that, much like ancient Israel, the early inhabitants of Hawaii established sanctuary cities, positioning Laie as a pivotal refuge for the Latter-day Saints.
In a captivating story recounted in the film, a warrior escapes his foes by leaping over the wall of Laie’s pu‘uhonua, which was revered as a zone of safety. These sanctuaries were sacred ground, where even those who had breached laws could find absolution. Across the Hawaiian Islands, similar places of refuge existed, affirming the historical significance of such sites.
The term “pu‘uhonua” translates to a hill or mound of safety, rooted in a cultural philosophy that views land as a life-giving, protective entity. Tevita Ka’ili, a professor at BYU-Hawaii, elaborates on this concept tied to the land’s nurturing essence and its enduring relevance to the Hawaiian identity.
Although Laie was once a small and sparsely populated village, it boasts a pu‘uhonua that has profoundly transformed lives. “Leaving the pu‘uhonua changes people’s lives completely,” notes historian Cy Bridges in the documentary. Thousands of students from the Pacific have felt the spirit of the sanctuary during their time at the centre.
Director Blair Treu expressed excitement over the award, acknowledging the film festival’s growing reputation. The recognition is expected to bolster efforts in distributing the documentary widely, alongside future screenings at several festivals globally. Treu hopes to attract a major streaming platform, with proceeds aiding scholarships for students working at the Polynesian Cultural Center.
In addition to the film festival accolades, “Sharing Aloha” has been designated as an official selection for the London International Visionary Festival. With nominations for Best Documentary and Best Director at the upcoming International Christian Film Festival in Orlando, Treu is determined to ensure the film reaches its audience, fulfilling its purpose of supporting aspiring students from across the Pacific.
“Sharing Aloha,” a new documentary focused on the Polynesian Cultural Center and BYU-Hawaii, won the Best Documentary Feature at the 2025 Zions Indie Film Fest. The film explores the historical significance of Laie as a “pu‘uhonua” or sanctuary. Director Blair Treu is hopeful for wider distribution, encouraging support for students through film proceeds. It also received selections for other festivals, showcasing its cultural impact.
In summary, “Sharing Aloha” not only clinched the top documentary award at the Zions Indie Film Fest but also serves as a vibrant tribute to the historical and cultural significance of the Polynesian Cultural Center and BYU-Hawaii. The film highlights the concept of the pu‘uhonua as a sanctuary embodying transformation and refuge, resonating deeply within the Hawaiian heritage. With growing recognition, director Blair Treu aims to share its spirit with a wider audience while also fostering educational opportunities for students.
Original Source: www.deseret.com
