IMDb 8.2 2022 HD

Waterman

Waterman

2022
Documentary History
88 min NR USA
9 / 10
8.2 IMDB

Five-time Olympic medalist and Native Hawaiian Duke Paoa Kahinu Mokoe Hulikohola Kahanamoku shattered records and brought surfing to the world while overcoming a lifetime of personal challenges. Waterman…

Personnel // Cast & Crew

Director Isaac Halasima
Starring
Duke Kahanamoku / Jason Momoa / Carissa Moore / Kelia Moniz / Ha'a Keaulana / Ellie Kahanamoku / Katherine Zuckerman / Kelly Slater

How Viewers Describe This Film

Common themes and sentiments

inspiring historical celebratory educational legacy athletic cultural pioneering resilient engaging influential admirable

Reviews

I
Isabelle Chen
Mar 25, 2026
4.0 / 5
4.0

The story of Duke Kahanamoku is one that deserves to be told and retold, and 'Waterman' does an admirable job of bringing it to a new generation. The film captures the essence of a man who was both…

L
Liam O'Connell
Mar 25, 2026
3.0 / 5
3.0

While 'Waterman' diligently covers the impressive life of Duke Kahanamoku, it occasionally feels more like a historical overview than a deeply penetrating character study. The film dutifully outlines his Olympic triumphs and his pivotal role in popularising surfing.…

S
Sophia Davies
Mar 25, 2026
4.5 / 5
4.5

A truly inspiring chronicle, 'Waterman' is more than just a sports documentary; it's a celebration of a visionary spirit. Duke Kahanamoku emerges as a titan, not just of the pool but of cultural dissemination, bringing the joy of…

M
Marcus Thorne
Mar 25, 2026
3.5 / 5
3.5

'Waterman' presents a solid, if somewhat reverential, portrait of Duke Kahanamoku. The narrative arc, charting his rise from Olympic champion to surfing's global ambassador, is clear and engaging. While the film touches upon personal struggles, its primary strength…

E
Eleanor Vance
Mar 25, 2026
4.0 / 5
4.0

This documentary offers a compelling dive into the life of Duke Kahanamoku, a figure whose name is synonymous with both swimming excellence and the very soul of surfing. Jason Momoa's presence lends a contemporary gravitas, though the film…

FAQs

Yes, the plot summary indicates that 'Waterman' explores Duke Kahanamoku's journey and legacy, explicitly mentioning that he overcame 'a lifetime of personal challenges'. This suggests the documentary delves beyond his athletic accomplishments to offer a more comprehensive portrait of the man, acknowledging the complexities he faced throughout his life.