Hawaii: Film fest’s topics cover music, surfing -- and uranium mining

A wealth of movies will bring a blend of education and entertainment next month to the Big Island and will include several premiere screenings, one of which was produced by ukulele legend Eddie Kamae.

The Waimea Ocean Film Festival begins Jan. 2 and continues for nine days at various venues on Hawaii.

More than 50 documentary and feature films will be shown. Among the titles are several highlighting Hawaiian culture. Others examine environmental issues, including the oceans. Among them?

“Sam Lia: The Legacy of a Hawaiian Man” profiles the man known locally as the “songwriter of Waipio.” Eddie Kamae, the producer of the documentary and a ukulele legend, will discuss his film.

“The Endless Summer,” the acclaimed 1966 documentary about surfing around the world.

“Bird of Paradise,” a 1951 romantic drama set on a Polynesian island. Queenie Dowsett, a Hawaiian native who appeared in the film, will be among the attendees.

“Hot Water,” which explores the aftermath of uranium mining in the Western U.S., was produced by Academy Award-winning filmmaker Don Rogers.

“Shining Night,” a film about the life and work of composer Morten Lauridsen, who will attend the festival.

Various ticket packages are available for purchase online or by calling (808) 854-6095.