Backdrop image for movie Pele's Appeal

Pele's Appeal (1989)

In the swirling volcanic steam and misty rain forest of Kilauea volcano’s east rift zone on the island of Hawai’i, two forces meet head on. Geothermal development interests, seeking to clear the rain forest for drilling operations, are opposed by native Hawaiians seeking to stop the desecration of the fire goddess, Pele. Pele is a living deity fundamental to Hawaiian spiritual belief. She is the eruption, with its heat, lava and steam. Her family takes the form of forest plants, animals and other natural forces. But geothermal development interests see Pele as simply a source of electricity. When Hawaiians take the issue to court, they find that nature-based religions are not respected by U.S. law.

  • Documentary

Top billed cast

  • Photo of Pua KanahelePua Kanahele
  • Photo of Noa Emmett AluliNoa Emmett Aluli
  • Photo of Palikapu DedmanPalikapu Dedman
  • Photo of Henry AuwaeHenry Auwae
  • Photo of Davianna McGregorDavianna McGregor
  • Photo of Paul TakehiroPaul Takehiro
  • Photo of Tom LuebbenTom Luebben
  • Photo of Alapa’i HanapiAlapa’i Hanapi
  • Photo of Ka’olelo ‘UlaleoKa’olelo ‘Ulaleo

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