Mauna Kea: Temple Under Siege (2005) – Expert Review | Official Watch Links
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Mauna Kea: Temple Under Siege (2005) Synopsis, Cast, Reviews & Watch Links
Movie Stats
Mauna Kea: Temple Under Siege
- Release Date: 2005-12-31
- Genres: Documentary
- Rating: 0 (0 votes)
- Runtime: 57 min
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Subtitles:
English, Dutch
Review & Score: Mauna Kea: Temple Under Siege
StreamValid Editorial Review
Although the mountain volcano Mauna Kea last erupted around 4,000 years ago, it is still hot today, the center of a burning controversy over whether its summit should be used for astronomical observatories or preserved as a cultural landscape sacred to the Hawaiian people. (Auto Summary)
✅ Pros — 2
- Strong acting performance.
- Positive audience reception.
✖ Cons — 1
- —
- Neutral point not specified.
- Detailed critic review not available yet.
Synopsis
Although the mountain volcano Mauna Kea last erupted around 4,000 years ago, it is still hot today, the center of a burning controversy over whether its summit should be used for astronomical observatories or preserved as a cultural landscape sacred to the Hawaiian people. For five years the documentary production team Nā Maka o ka 'Āina ("the eyes of the land") captured on video the seasonal moods of Mauna Kea's unique 14,000-foot summit, the richly varied ecosystems that extend from sea level to alpine zone, the legends and stories that reveal the mountain's geologic and cultural history, and the political turbulence surrounding the efforts to protect the most significant temple in the islands: the mountain itself.
Mauna Kea: Temple Under Siege is a thoughtful exploration of truth, reality, and untold stories. Meticulously researched and presented with clarity, it sheds light on compelling topics that provoke thought and inspire change.
Visually, the film is a marvel — every shot meticulously framed to enhance emotion and tone. The cinematography captures the story’s essence, whether through sweeping panoramas or intimate moments. Direction is assured, guiding the audience through the narrative with confident pacing and clear vision. Music and sound design underscore key scenes, elevating tension and enhancing immersion. Every creative element works in unison to produce a memorable and polished experience.
Mauna Kea: Temple Under Siege provides more than just entertainment — it delivers resonance. Audiences are drawn into its emotional undercurrents, finding moments of joy, sorrow, and revelation. The storytelling offers layers that reward thoughtful viewing, blending accessible thrills with deeper meaning. From quiet introspections to intense confrontations, it maintains an emotional rhythm that captivates. It’s the kind of film that lingers in memory, inspiring discussion and introspection long after the credits roll.
In the end, Mauna Kea: Temple Under Siege stands as a shining example of cinematic craft — a harmonious blend of narrative, performance, and technical achievement. It delivers a satisfying arc, fully realizing the potential of its story and characters. Whether you're a loyal follower of or a curious newcomer, this film offers something truly special. It speaks to the power of film as art, storytelling, and shared experience. Few titles manage to resonate so deeply across so many levels — this is one of them.
If you're interested in more great documentary films, you might also enjoy: The Cove, Blackfish, 13th, Free Solo, My Octopus Teacher.
Cast & Characters
- Puhipau as Narrator (voice)
- Manu Aluli Meyer as Herself - Philosopher of Education
- Keawe Vredenburg as Himself
- Sam 'Ohukani'ōhi'a Gon as Himself - Conservation Biologist
- Kealoha Pisciotta as Herself - Mauna Kea Anaina Hou
- Nelson Ho as Himself - Sierra Club
- Paul Neves as Himself - Royal Order of Kamehameha
- Hanalei Fergerstrom as Himself
- Reynolds Kamakawiwo'ole as Himself
- Kahu o Terangi as Himself
Gallery
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