Hawaii is a 1966 epic drama film directed by George Roy Hill and based on the novel of the same name by James A. Michener. The movie stars Julie Andrews as Jerusha Bromley, an independent and spirited New England woman who falls in love with Abner Hale, played by Max von Sydow, a dour and inflexible missionary determined to spread the gospel to the native Hawaiians.
The couple arrives in Hawaii in 1820. Jerusha is enchanted by the beauty and warmth of the island, but Abner is appalled by what he sees as idolatry, drunkenness and immorality among the natives. He sets out to convert them to Christianity and change their way of life, but his strict and narrow-minded approach only breeds resentment and resistance. The Hawaiians view him as a threat to their culture and traditions, and tensions escalate between the two sides.
As the years pass, Jerusha adapts to Hawaiian life and becomes more sympathetic to their customs and beliefs. She befriends Queen Malama, played by Jocelyne LaGarde, and learns about their rich history and mythology. Meanwhile, Abner becomes increasingly fanatical in his mission, refusing to compromise or listen to anyone who disagrees with him. He clashes with other missionaries, including his rival Reverend Immanuel Quigley, played by Richard Harris, and becomes estranged from Jerusha.
The turning point comes when Abner is kidnapped by a tribe of natives who resent his meddling and want to make an example of him. Jerusha sets out to rescue him, risking her own safety and defying the orders of her husband. When she finally finds him, he is a broken man, having witnessed firsthand the violence and suffering that his rigid beliefs have caused. He finally realizes the error of his ways and seeks redemption.
The movie ends with a devastating scene, as a smallpox epidemic sweeps through the island, killing thousands of Hawaiians, including Queen Malama. Abner and Jerusha are left to contemplate the tragic consequences of their actions and the price of their love. The film was a critical and commercial success, earning four Oscar nominations, including Best Supporting Actor for Harris and Best Song for the haunting "My Wishing Doll." It remains a poignant and powerful examination of cultural clash and colonialism.