There are many good arguments for diversity in entertainment. For example, the way people feel when they see themselves reflected onscreen, and the fact that diverse voices result in more interesting stories. But an oft-neglected reason is that diverse casts are more likely to have at least one person of Pacific Islander ancestry, which means we’ll get more hakas. Jason Momoa led a performance of the haka “Ka Mate” on the Aquaman blue carpet Wednesday night. Many cast members joined in, including New Zealand native Temuera Morrison, who plays Aquaman’s dad. “Ka Mate” was originally written by Māori war leader Te Rauparaha to celebrate his escape from pursuing enemies. It has been popularized across the globe by the New Zealand rugby team the All Blacks, who perform it before their matches.
I think we all know what needs to happen next. Momoa needs to co-star with Dwayne Johnson in a film directed by Taika Waititi. Don’t care what the movie is about. I’m just excited about the premiere.
