Trailer For WATERMAN a Documentary About Legendary Hawaiian Surfer Duke Kahanamoku

"To us, he is the King of Surfing."

The first trailer has been released for a new documentary titled Waterman, which puts the focus on legendary Hawaiian surfer Duke Paoa Kahanamoku. I love surfing and I also have enjoyed diving into the history of the sport.

This guy led an incredible life and this is a man I have great respect for. There was a point in my life when I learned everything there was to learn about Duke, I’ve read every book about him and studied his life in great detail. I actually wrote a film script years ago that told his story. I still think a movie about this guy would be awesome, but a documentary like this can definitely help lay the groundwork for that.

Here’s the synopsis for Waterman, which is narrated by Jason Momoa:

Five-time Olympic medalist and Native Hawaiian Duke Paoa Kahanamoku shattered records and brought surfing to the world while overcoming a lifetime of personal challenges. Waterman explores his journey and legacy as a legendary swimmer, trailblazer, and the undisputed father of modern-day surfing, following the sport’s first-time inclusion in this year’s Games – a fitting tribute to his work promoting the sport around the globe.

This original documentary by Sidewinder Films (At the Heart of Gold: Inside the USA Gymnastics Scandal, Munich ’72 and Beyond), features commentary from surfing’s biggest stars, including newly-crowned Olympic gold medalist Carissa Moore, while also delving into his personal successes, struggles and humanitarianism through rare footage, contemporary visuals and incisive interviews.

From modest roots in Waikiki, Duke swam his way to fame, becoming the face of a changing Hawaii – and a vital part of its tourism industry – as it evolved from an independent Kingdom to the 50th American state. Yet relatively few outside Hawaii know the full extent of Duke’s impact on sports, lifesaving, and combatting prejudice.

Through Duke’s incredible athletic accomplishments, personal doctrine of Aloha, and enduring gift of surfing to the world, the film explores a theme that still resonates today – the role of sports in breaking societal barriers – and celebrates his triumphs and philosophy of inclusion, challenging us all to embrace diversity and incorporate Aloha into our own lives.

Waterman is directed by Tongan-American filmmaker Isaac Halasima (The Last Descent). Purdie Distribution will release the film in select theaters starting on April 1st, 2022.