What to Watch Before Your Trip To French Polynesia: Polynesia on Film
- Priority to Paradise
- Aug 1
- 3 min read
Updated: Aug 19
French Polynesia, with its mesmerizing beauty and rich cultural heritage, has inspired countless films and documentaries that capture the essence of this enchanting destination. If you're gearing up for a trip to the stunning islands of French Polynesia, we've curated a list of must-watch films and documentaries to immerse yourself in the magic of this paradise before your journey begins. Get ready for a cinematic adventure that will whet your appetite for the wonders that await you in French Polynesia.
1. Moana
If you haven't already seen this beautiful animated film that showcases the spirit of the Pacific Islands, I wholeheartedly recommend it. This Disney masterpiece follows the adventurous journey of Moana, a spirited young Polynesian girl, as she sets sail to save her people. The film beautifully depicts Polynesian culture, traditions, and mythology, offering a glimpse into the vibrant world you are about to explore. Available to watch on Disney Plus and also on most (if not all) flights that service Tahiti.
2. Children of Teahupo'o
This short documentary shows the children of Teahupo'o, home of the mythical wave. Facing mystical mountains covered in a wild and luxuriant jungle, the perfect wave of Teahupo'o wraps around the reef to create a powerful tube that attracts the best surfers on the planet. Released with the upcoming Olympic Games on the horizon, this story follows surfers and stewards who grew up in this paradise, and dedicate themselves heart to preserving the place and passing on their culture to future generations.
3. Anthony Bourdain’s 2007 French Polynesia Episode of "No Reservations"
For the foodies and travel enthusiasts, Anthony Bourdain's "No Reservations" episode 10 of season 3 on French Polynesia is available on HBO MAX, Hulu, and Amazon Prime. The late chef and traveler takes you on a culinary and cultural exploration through the islands, sampling local delicacies, meeting locals, and delving into French influence as well as Tahitian culture. This episode is a delightful insight into the island's gastronomy and the warm-hearted people that make it so special. As a Bourdain fan, I can't say it's one of my favorite episodes - it's from an older season, well before 4k (see photo above) - but entertaining nonetheless.
4. Mutiny on the Bounty
For a classic adventure film from 1962 with a touch of history, "Mutiny on the Bounty" is a timeless choice. Based on the true events of the infamous mutiny of 1789, the film takes place against the backdrop of Tahiti's breathtaking landscapes. A Hollywood interpretation of history, it offers a glimpse of the beauty that captivated the early explorers and still draws travelers to French Polynesia today - in more ways than one! Marlon Brando went on to fall in love with Tahiti and a Tahitian while filming this movie. Check out my article on his legacy, the Brando Hotel - a private resort on the atoll of Tetiaroa in French Polynesia.
5. Moana 2
Moana continues her Oceania adventures in this cute sequel that came out in late 2024. In many ways everything a sequel should be: bolder, bigger, more heart, and picking up off the energy and storyline of the first film. Blending adventure, music, and heartful storytelling, I enjoyed this movie more than I expected I would! Now available on Disney Plus and on most airlines that service Tahiti.
As you prepare for your trip to French Polynesia, tuning into the programs above will transport you to the heart of this magical destination. Each story captivating in it's own way, tuning into any of the programs above can help you revel in excitement for your upcoming trip and gain a deeper appreciation for the rich tapestry of Polynesian culture and history. So, grab your popcorn, sit back, and bon voyage!
Let me know in the comments how you liked any of the programs, or if you have any to recommend!
Comments