Decoding Ancestral Knowledge

This short documentary explores the intersection of science and mythology through the journey of Kiana Frank, a Native Hawaiian microbiologist. Using cutting-edge molecular techniques, Frank investigates the enduring story of Meheanu, a revered goddess of a local fishpond, uncovering insights that bridge oral traditions and modern science. Delicate paper puppetry animations, crafted by Emmy-nominated filmmakers Sharon Shattuck and Ruth Lichtman, bring microbiology and Hawai'ian mythology to life, immersing viewers in a world of magical realism. The film reveals how ancestral knowledge holds profound implications for understanding and managing Hawai'ian ecosystems, offering a unique blend of art, science, and cultural heritage.