Like many indigenous groups, Pacific Islanders are rarely portrayed in film and are very much an underserved niche group.

There are also very few actors, directors, etc., of Pacific Islander descent. But just because they are a rarity in film, it doesn’t mean there aren’t some distinguished ones already. Here is a list of established Pacific Islander actors and films representing the culture.

Actor: Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson

Arguably the most famous wrestler-­turned­-actor, The Rock is also the most well-known Samoan-­American. What is appealing about The Rock is that he is so likable, charismatic and, unlike so many athletes who try their hand at acting, he can actually portray characters well. Starring in action­-adventure films (the “Fast and the Furious” franchise), goofy comedies (“The Other Guys”) and dramatic roles (“Snitch”), The Rock has parlayed his charisma into a successful acting career in a way few others can.

Actor: Jason Momoa

You might not know his name, but I can assure you that you know his face. Getting his start on “Stargate Atlantis” and later finding Hollywood success as barbarian chieftain Khal Drogo on “Game of Thrones,” Momoa has become an established Hawaiian actor. Momoa may be a big, muscular man who looks more suited for the bench than the screen, but don’t be fooled. Even when the movies or shows he’s in aren’t good, he always delivers exceptional performances. He has recently been casted in the lead role for “Aquaman.”

Film: “Lilo & Stitch”

I feel so sorry for you if “Lilo & Stitch” wasn’t a mandatory viewing in your home when you were a kid. Not only is it a great sci­-fi comedy about a girl and her alien friend, it gets you immersed in the native Hawaiian culture in a way no other major film has.

Film: “Whale Rider”

In this film, a 12 year­-old Maori girl and native of New Zealand wants to become her tribe’s chief. Although it sounds like a difficult task, it makes for an inspiring story. More than that, it shows the difficulties of being a girl in a deeply patriarchal society, even in current times.

Film: “Once Were Warriors”

Another Maori-­centric film, “Once Were Warriors,” is the story of a family living in Auckland who cannot catch a break. Poverty is a fact of life, the father (Temuera Morrison) is an abusive alcoholic and the oldest son is a gang member. However, there’s always a silver lining, especially for daughter Grace, an aspiring writer. Although this film is brutal and undoubtedly tough to watch, it does a great job at depicting the consequences of years of mistreatment of natives by colonists, while still telling a fascinating human story.