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Documentary

US PREMIERE

SGT. HAANE

On the night of April 19, 1943, 28th Māori Battalion soldier Haane Manahi led an extraordinary assault on the seemingly impregnable mountain fortress of Takrouna in Tunisia, a feat that helped alter the course of the North African campaign during World War II. Though recommended for the Victoria Cross by multiple senior commanders, the honor was never awarded, and no explanation was ever given.

Directed by Tearepa Kahi (MURU, POI E) and starring Alex Tarrant (NCIS: HAWAI’I), this sweeping historical drama interweaves Manahi’s wartime heroism with the enduring legacy carried by his descendants in Rotorua, New Zealand and the people of Takrouna whose lives he helped save. Moving between past and present, the film explores courage, sacrifice, and memory through the experiences of the 28th Māori Battalion and the generations that continue to honor their service. More than a war film, it’s a powerful story of identity, remembrance, and the determination to ensure a Māori hero’s legacy is never forgotten.


This film is presented as part of the New American Perspectives program. Developed in partnership with Vilcek Foundation, the program shines a spotlight on immigrant and foreign-born artists, celebrating the powerful impact that diversity has on contemporary cinema and storytelling in the United States.


Actor Alex Tarrant will participate in a post-screening Q&A on Friday, October 23 and the New American Perspectives panel discussion at Honolulu Civil Beat on Monday, October 26.  

SGT. HAANE is nominated for the Pasifika Award at HIFF46. 


Screening Dates:

  1. Friday, October 23, 2026, 6:30 pm 
  2. Premiere screening. Followed by a Q&A with Alex Tarrant
  3. Friday, October 30, 2026, 3:15 pm
  4. Encore screening


RUSH

What are STANDY/RUSH Tickets?

Rush tickets are offered when a screening or event is sold out. The Rush system functions as a standby line that will form at the venue approximately one hour prior to scheduled start time. Admittance is based on availability and will begin roughly 10 minutes prior to program start time. Rush Tickets are $20 and are payable upon entry.

Preview

Tickets

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Friday, October 23, 2026

6:30 PM• Consolidated Theatres Kahala

Friday, October 30, 2026

3:15 PM• Consolidated Theatres Kahala

Credits

CastAlex Tarrant
DirectorTearepa Kahi
WriterTearepa Kahi
CinematographerChris Mauger

With Support From

Vilcek Foundation
Pacific Islanders in Communications

Upcoming Dates

Fri, Oct 23

Consolidated Theatres Kahala

Fri, Oct 30

Consolidated Theatres Kahala

Event Info

Run Time:
89 mins
Country:
New Zealand / Aotearoa, Tunisia
Genre:
Indigenous/Native Peoples, Documentary, History
Language(s):
English, Maori

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Location

Consolidated Theatres Kahala

4211 Waialae Avenue

Honolulu, HI 96816

Transaction fees may apply.