What Is Princess Kaiulani About?
The premise of Princess Kaiulani in 296 words, with nothing given away. The full story follows below.
In the waning days of a sovereign kingdom, the islands of Hawaiʻi shimmer with a blend of ancient rituals and the promise of modern change. The royal palace stands as a symbol of a people’s identity, while distant powers circle with the quiet certainty of inevitable shift. Within this lush, contested landscape, the realm’s future hinges on a young heir tasked with defending a heritage that feels both timeless and fragile.
Kaiulani, the spirited princess and next in line to the throne, carries the weight of her ancestors’ expectations while confronting a world that demands new kinds of leadership. Raised amidst the fragrant gardens and ceremonial drums of Iolani Palace, she is equally drawn to the vibrant streets of Honolulu and the scholarly halls of Europe, where she must navigate the sting of prejudice and the allure of foreign ideas. Her journey is marked by a tension between reverence for tradition and a fierce desire to shape a destiny of her own making.
The film’s tone balances the lyrical beauty of island life with the sharp edge of political intrigue, casting the princess’s struggle as both a personal and collective quest. Kaiulani moves through lavish court gatherings, bustling foreign salons, and burgeoning newspapers with a poise that both charms and challenges those who meet her. Her voice, educated yet deeply rooted in native wisdom, becomes a rallying point for a people watching their sovereignty teeter on the brink of loss.
Against a backdrop of impending annexation, the story hints at the crossroads where conviction meets compromise. Kaiulani stands poised between the ceremonial garb of her lineage and the modern attire of global diplomacy, inviting viewers to wonder how far a single, determined heart can reach when the very soul of a nation hangs in the balance.
What Happens in Princess Kaiulani?
The complete story of Princess Kaiulani, from the first scene to the last, in 641 words (about 3 minutes). Spoilers throughout.
Spoilers ahead
As the royal family gathered at Iolani Palace for a significant ceremony marking the introduction of electricity to Honolulu, Princess Kaiulani found her world drastically altered by the unexpected appearance of a group of armed white men. Led by Lorrin Thurston, these intruders demanded that King Kalakaua sign a new constitution that would curtail the monarchy’s powers, handing extensive political control to European settlers. The tense standoff between Thurston’s group and the Royal Guards quickly escalated into chaos, prompting Kaiulani’s father, Archie Cleghorn, to take swift action for her safety, sending her off to England for both refuge and education.
In England, Kaiulani faced the harsh reality of being a Polynesian in a foreign land, which often made her the target of racism and derogatory stereotypes. Despite such adversities, she managed to forge strong connections, particularly with the charming Clive Davies, to whom she eventually became engaged. However, a bombshell awaited when her father returned from Hawaii with devastating news: King Kalakaua had died shortly after being coerced into signing the controversial constitution, and Queen Liliuokalani had been deposed, marking a tragic end to the monarchy. Thurston’s actions against the native population led to a tumultuous overthrow of the government, and Sanford B. Dole proclaimed Hawai’i a republic.
The realization that the Davies family had knowledge of her family’s downfall yet chose to remain silent deepened her sense of betrayal, prompting her to end her engagement and depart England. She traveled to the United States, where she attracted considerable media attention, vocally opposing the overthrow and the U.S.’s role in it. Despite the pervasive racist attitudes she encountered, her cultured and regal demeanor captivated many, successfully challenging the “Barbarian Princess” image often ascribed to her. Kaiulani’s advocacy peaked when she met with President Grover Cleveland, where her charm and determination swayed him to actively denounce the takeover. Although her efforts took place during the twilight of Cleveland’s presidency, they laid the groundwork for a later shift in U.S. policy regarding Hawai’i.
As the Cleveland administration came to a close, Kaiulani faced a daunting new reality with the inauguration of President William McKinley, who had not only failed to oppose the overthrow but also endorsed Thurston’s annexation proposal, effectively dissolving the Kingdom of Hawai’i into the United States. Upon her return to Hawaiian soil, she attended a private funeral for her aunt, Queen Liliuokalani, symbolizing the end of an era. Shortly after her arrival, Sanford B. Dole visited her, suggesting she entertain three U.S. legal commissioners. Reluctantly, she agreed, using the opportunity to showcase her intelligence and charm.
At the dinner, Kaiulani won over her guests, then made a bold move by publicly petitioning for an amendment to the annexation treaty that would guarantee universal suffrage and voting rights for all Native Hawaiians. Although Thurston dismissively rebuked her proposal, her determination was amplified with Dole pledging to advocate for her cause.
The evening took an unexpected turn when Clive, her former love, finally arrived in Hawai’i. Their reunion was sweet, filled with nostalgia, but soon turned melancholic as Clive revealed his inheritance of family assets, including properties in Hawai’i. He proposed that Kaiulani return to England and marry him, but she firmly refused, asserting that her place was in the islands. Their farewell was thus bittersweet.
As the film concluded, Kaiulani symbolically returned her cherished seashells to the ocean, reflecting her acceptance of the painful new reality. A haunting voiceover suggests that the burning spirit of Kaiulani lives on through the love of her people. In a poignant post-credits moment, it is revealed that Kaiulani passed away shortly after the annexation, with some believing the weight of her lost kingdom crushed her spirit. Another card informs viewers that in 1993, President Clinton signed the Apology Resolution, recognizing the U.S.’s role in the overthrow and expressing regret for the actions taken against Hawai’i.
Princess Kaiulani Timeline: Every Key Event in Order
15 key events in the order they happen, from “Ceremony at Iolani Palace” to “Kaiulani's Legacy”. 14 events name a place, across 4 locations.
- 1
Ceremony at Iolani Palace
The royal family gathered at Iolani Palace to celebrate the introduction of electricity to Honolulu. This significant event marked a moment of progress for the monarchy, but it would soon be overshadowed by the chaos that followed.
Where:Iolani Palace, Honolulu
- 2
Armed Intruders Arrive
A group of armed white men, led by Lorrin Thurston, invaded the palace demanding that King Kalakaua sign a new constitution. This demand aimed to severely limit the monarchy's powers and transfer control to European settlers, creating a tense standoff.
Where:Iolani Palace, Honolulu
- 3
Chaos Erupts
The standoff escalated rapidly as tensions rose between Thurston's group and the Royal Guards. In the midst of the chaos, Princess Kaiulani's father, Archie Cleghorn, acted quickly to ensure her safety by sending her to England.
Where:Iolani Palace, Honolulu
- 4
Life in England
In England, Kaiulani faced the harsh realities of racism and cultural stereotypes that targeted her as a Polynesian. Despite these challenges, she established meaningful relationships, notably with Clive Davies, which led to their engagement.
Where:England
- 5
Tragic News from Hawaii
Kaiulani received devastating news from her father that King Kalakaua had died shortly after being forced to sign the new constitution. Additionally, Queen Liliuokalani was deposed, signaling the tragic end of the monarchy in Hawaii.
Where:Hawaii
- 6
Overthrow of the Government
Thurston's actions led to a tumultuous overthrow of the Hawaiian government, with Sanford B. Dole proclaiming Hawaii a republic. This marked a critical turning point in Hawaiian history and solidified the loss of sovereignty for the native population.
Where:Hawaii
- 7
Betrayal by the Davies Family
Upon learning that the Davies family had prior knowledge of her family's downfall yet chose to stay silent, Kaiulani felt a deep sense of betrayal. This prompted her to break off her engagement with Clive and leave England.
Where:England
- 8
Media Attention in the U.S.
After arriving in the United States, Kaiulani garnered considerable media attention as she vocally opposed the overthrow of her kingdom. Her regal demeanor challenged the racist perceptions she faced, presenting her as a symbol of resistance.
Where:United States
- 9
Meeting with President Cleveland
In a significant meeting, Kaiulani presented her case to President Grover Cleveland, successfully convincing him to denounce the overthrow of the Hawaiian monarchy. This meeting marked a high point in her advocacy for her people's rights.
Where:United States
- 10
Inauguration of President McKinley
With the inauguration of President William McKinley, the situation for Kaiulani worsened as he endorsed the annexation of Hawaii. This further dissolved the Hawaiian Kingdom's sovereignty and deeply impacted Kaiulani's efforts.
Where:United States
Show the other 5 events of Princess Kaiulani Hide the last 5 events
- 11
Return to Hawaiian Soil
Kaiulani returned to Hawaii to attend the private funeral of her aunt, Queen Liliuokalani. This visit symbolized both a personal loss and the tragic end of an era for the Hawaiian monarchy.
Where:Hawaii
- 12
Dinner with U.S. Commissioners
During a dinner with U.S. legal commissioners, Kaiulani showcased her intelligence and charm. She seized the opportunity to publicly petition for an amendment to the annexation treaty, advocating for voting rights for Native Hawaiians.
Where:Hawaii
- 13
Final Reunion with Clive
Clive returned to Hawaii after a long absence, and their reunion carried a mix of nostalgia and melancholy. Clive proposed that Kaiulani return to England and marry him, but she firmly refused, stating her commitment to her homeland.
Where:Hawaii
- 14
Symbolic Return of Seashells
In a poignant closing, Kaiulani returned her cherished seashells to the ocean, symbolizing her acceptance of the painful changes in her life. This act reflected her enduring connection to her home and the love of her people.
Where:Hawaii
- 15
Kaiulani's Legacy
The film concludes with a voiceover suggesting that Kaiulani's spirit lives on through the love of her people. Additionally, it reveals that she passed away shortly after the annexation, with some believing the burden of loss crushed her spirit.
Who Are the Main Characters in Princess Kaiulani?
5 characters, among them Princess Kaiulani, King Kalakaua and Clive Davies: who each one is and the part they play in the story.
- PK
Princess Kaiulani
Princess Kaiulani is a courageous and resilient young royal who grapples with her identity amid political turmoil. Known for her regal demeanor and strong convictions, she becomes an advocate for her people's rights. Despite facing racism and betrayal, her dedication to her homeland shapes her journey and legacy.
- 👸 Royalty
- 🗣️ Advocate
- 🌺 Resilience
- KK
King Kalakaua
King Kalakaua is the monarch of Hawai'i, portrayed as a figure caught between tradition and the pressures from colonial powers. His signing of the controversial constitution marks the tragic beginning of the end for the Hawaiian monarchy. His death signifies a profound loss for the royal family and the Hawaiian people.
- 👑 Monarchy
- 📜 Tradition
- 🇭🇺 Hawai'i
- CD
Clive Davies
Clive Davies is Kaiulani's charming fiancé who provides a contrast to the political turmoil she faces. His initial support shifts as he offers her an escape from her struggles, yet ultimately his proposals evoke feelings of loss for Kaiulani. He symbolizes the bittersweet nature of love amidst adversity.
- 💖 Love
- 🇬🇧 England
- 😔 Nostalgia
- LT
Lorrin Thurston
Lorrin Thurston is depicted as a pivotal antagonist, representing the colonial forces seeking to undermine the Hawaiian monarchy. His actions catalyze the drastic political change, challenging the very fabric of Hawaiian sovereignty. His character embodies the conflict between settlers and native peoples.
- ⚔️ Conflict
- 📉 Power
- 🤵 Political
- QL
Queen Liliuokalani
Queen Liliuokalani is a resilient and compassionate figure in the film, representing Hawaiian royalty and culture. As the last reigning monarch of Hawai'i, her story intersects with Kaiulani's, symbolizing the struggle against oppression. Her tragic deposition marks the end of an era for the Hawaiian Islands.
- 👸 Royalty
- 🌺 Culture
- 📜 Legacy
Where and When Is Princess Kaiulani Set?
Princess Kaiulani is set in Honolulu, England, United States and Hawai'i (Late 19th Century). Here is why the time and place matter to the story.
When
Late 19th Century
The late 19th century was characterized by significant political shifts and upheaval, particularly in Hawai'i. It marked a transition from monarchy to a republic, driven by the influences of European settlers. The era was also marred by colonial tensions and the emergence of advocacy movements, as seen in Kaiulani's struggles against racism and her fight for her people's rights.
Where
Honolulu, England, United States, Hawai'i
Honolulu serves as the backdrop for significant historical events, especially during the monarchy period of Hawai'i. Known for its stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage, the city is deeply intertwined with the history of the Hawaiian royal family. England symbolizes the foreign land where Princess Kaiulani faces challenges in her identity amidst prevalent racism. The United States is pivotal as it plays a significant role in the political upheaval facing Hawai'i and serves as a stage for Kaiulani's advocacy.
- 🏝️ Hawai'i
- 🇬🇧 England
- 🇺🇸 United States
What Are the Themes of Princess Kaiulani?
3 ideas the story keeps returning to, among them Monarchy vs. Colonialism, Cultural Identity and Loss and Betrayal.
-
01
Monarchy vs. Colonialism
The film explores the struggle between the Hawaiian monarchy and colonial powers, emphasizing the stark reality of sovereignty loss. Princess Kaiulani personifies the resistance against colonial encroachment, embodying the fight for native rights amid oppressive forces. This theme highlights the impact of power dynamics on identity and legacy.
-
02
Cultural Identity
Cultural identity is a prominent theme as Kaiulani confronts her Polynesian heritage in a foreign land. Her experience in England exposes the racism and stereotypes faced by indigenous peoples, showcasing her resilience. By embracing her roots, she challenges negative perceptions and redefines her identity.
-
03
Loss and Betrayal
Loss and betrayal resonate throughout the story as Kaiulani suffers the tragic downfall of her family and the monarchy. The emotional turmoil deepens with her engagement ending, reflecting the personal impacts of political strife. Her journey underscores the heartbreak of losing one's homeland and loved ones amidst the fight for justice.
What Kind of Film Is Princess Kaiulani?
Melancholic in tone, with steady pacing and a straightforward story, going by the plot summary.
- Tone
- Melancholic
- Pacing
- Steady
- Story
- Straightforward
- Intensity
- Medium
- Ending
- Bittersweet
A dignified and melancholic historical drama that follows a princess's resilient but heartbreaking fight to preserve her kingdom's sovereignty, marked by personal sacrifice and a bittersweet sense of loss.
- defiant
- melancholic
- resilient
- nostalgic
- oppressive
- dignified
- political resistance
- colonialism
- cultural identity
- historical drama
Content notes: colonial oppression, racism.
Quiz
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Where to Watch Princess Kaiulani
Stream it on Kanopy, or rent or buy it from Amazon Video and Google Play Movies. US availability and prices from JustWatch.
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