Luciane Buchanan Emerges as Verbal Powerhouse amidst Military Leader's Command
Luciane Buchanan, a rising star in the entertainment industry, is making waves with her portrayal of Ka'ahumanu in the Apple TV+ series "Chief of War". The series, set to premiere this weekend, offers a captivating glimpse into Hawaiian history during the late 18th century.
Ka'ahumanu, a historical royal figure, is not specifically known as a "Chief of War", but she was a highly significant figure in Hawaiian history. She rose to become the favorite wife of King Kamehameha I and his most trusted advisor, playing a crucial political and cultural role after Kamehameha's death. Ka'ahumanu was instrumental in abolishing the kapu (taboo) religious system, introducing educational reforms, and encouraging political modernization in the Kingdom of Hawaii. She also acted as co-ruler during the reigns of Kamehameha’s successors and helped negotiate Hawaii's first treaty with the United States, shaping the early governance and international relations of the kingdom.
For Buchanan, the opportunity to play Ka'ahumanu was a "dream come true". She immersed herself in the role, flying to Hawai'i to visit Ka'ahumanu's birthplace and starting her research process. To bring Ka'ahumanu to life, Buchanan sought inspiration in Beyoncé's Renaissance album, particularly the song "Alien Superstar".
In the series, Ka'ahumanu is shown as a force to be reckoned with, with a deep curiosity for things beyond Hawai'i and the ability to persuade people with her charm and presence. When she is first introduced, she is a young noble hiding in a cave. As the story unfolds, Ka'ahumanu rises to become a powerful political leader, embodying the spirit of a woman who defied the odds and shaped the course of Hawaiian history.
Buchanan found it challenging to build the character of Ka'ahumanu as much information about her is from the lens of men. However, she was supported by Thomas Pa'a Sibbett, one of the creators of the series, who believed that Buchanan's heritage as a woman with Polynesian roots helped her understand the "weight" of playing Ka'ahumanu.
Buchanan spent nearly a year in production portraying Ka'ahumanu, which empowered her to advocate for herself as an actress. She wore a custom Rocket Ahuna gown inspired by Ka'ahumanu at the premiere of "Chief of War".
The Apple TV+ series "Chief of War" aims to tell Polynesian history from an Indigenous point of view, with the hope that it will be the first of many stories in this vein. Much of the series is in Hawaiian, which Buchanan had to learn for the role.
The first two episodes of "Chief of War" are now streaming on Apple TV, offering viewers a chance to witness Buchanan's remarkable portrayal of Ka'ahumanu and to delve into the rich history of Hawai'i.
In contrast to the title character in the series, Ka'iana, a warrior chief and military leader who fought during Kamehameha I’s campaigns of unification, is depicted as a military figure and explorer, whose historical role was more directly related to warfare.
Despite the fictionalized and mythic framing of the series, Ka'ahumanu's significance lies in her influence as a powerful political leader and reformer shaping the Hawaiian Kingdom’s post-unification society, not primarily as a military chief. The title "Chief of War" aligns more with figures like Ka'iana in the context of warfare during the islands’ unification.
As Buchanan continues to make her mark in the industry, her portrayal of Ka'ahumanu is a testament to her talent and dedication. In an era where representation matters, "Chief of War" offers a compelling and authentic portrayal of a historical figure who continues to inspire.
Buchanan is also currently filming "Evil Dead Burn", the newest in the Evil Dead franchise, set to be released in theaters next summer. Despite her busy schedule, her commitment to her craft and her passion for storytelling remain unwavering.
- Luciane Buchanan's portrayal of Ka'ahumanu in the Apple TV+ series "Chief of War" offers a captivating glimpse into Hawaiian history, providing a unique blend of entertainment and culture.
- To bring Ka'ahumanu to life, Buchanan sought inspiration in Beyoncé's Renaissance album, particularly the song "Alien Superstar," indicating her involvement with art and music.
- The Apple TV+ series "Chief of War" aims to tell Polynesian history from an Indigenous point of view, highlighting the importance of representation in entertainment and news.
- Despite the title character Ka'iana in the series being a military figure, Ka'ahumanu's significance lies more in her influence as a political leader and reformer shaping the Hawaiian Kingdom’s post-unification society.
- In her upcoming project, "Evil Dead Burn," Buchanan will continue to demonstrate her talent and dedication in the realm of movies-and-tv, solidifying her place in the entertainment industry.
