Dwayne Johnson’s “Personal” New Project: The Untold Story of Hawaii’s Crime Syndicate

Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, one of Hollywood’s most successful actors and former pro wrestlers, is diving into a new project that he describes as “personal.” On April 2, 2025, Johnson shared exciting news that he would be co-authoring a new book, alongside Nick Bilton, that delves into the history of a notorious Hawaiian crime syndicate. The book will tell the gripping story of “The Company,” a fierce and defiant criminal group that battled outsider gangs and corporate invaders in Hawaii during the 1960s and 70s.

Johnson, 52, announced the project via a press release, noting that it would serve as the inspiration for a forthcoming film directed by none other than Martin Scorsese. The film is expected to star Johnson, alongside Leonardo DiCaprio and Emily Blunt, with Bilton also writing the screenplay. The collaboration marks another significant step for Johnson, who continues to expand his reach in the entertainment industry beyond acting and wrestling.

A Story Rooted in Hawaiian History

The book will explore the rise of “The Company,” which was led by Wilford ‘Nappy’ Pulawa, the first and only Hawaiian mob boss in history. Pulawa’s story is one of resilience and defiance, emerging from crushing poverty and a loss of Hawaiian land and culture. The criminal empire he built was not merely for wealth or power but as an effort to reclaim control and preserve his people’s identity in the face of exploitation from American corporations and powerful Asian crime syndicates.

The story is set against the backdrop of a tumultuous era in Hawaii’s history. Pulawa, known for his signature aloha shirts and fresh orchid leis, fought to maintain his people’s survival with unmatched violence when necessary. His reign eventually rivaled that of mainland crime legends like Luciano, Capone, and Gotti. However, as often happens in tales of powerful criminal empires, it all dramatically unraveled.

What makes this project particularly poignant for Johnson is his personal connection to the subject matter. Having spent his formative years living in Hawaii, Johnson is deeply tied to his Polynesian heritage, and the story of Pulawa’s rise and fall resonates with him on a cultural level.

Why This Project Is ‘Personal’ for Johnson

In a statement, Johnson shared the deep emotional connection he feels toward this book and its subject matter: “What drew me to this project wasn’t just the action and the intensity — for me, this story hits close to home. It’s not just history, it’s personal. My own family lived through parts of this era, and I’ve seen firsthand the complicated legacy it left behind. Telling this story is a way to honor our Polynesian culture, and honor where we come from and share the untold history of what really happened in paradise.”

Johnson went on to explain that this isn’t just a gangster story but a reflection on power, identity, and the loss of culture. The history of the Hawaiian people, their struggles against outside forces, and the impact on their communities are central to this narrative. Through this project, Johnson hopes to bring attention to a piece of history that has largely been untold.

Looking Ahead to the Book and Film

While the title and publication date for the book have yet to be revealed, Johnson’s passion for this project is clear. As he continues to balance a successful acting career with his business ventures, this project stands as a testament to his dedication to storytelling that honors his heritage. The involvement of Martin Scorsese, Leonardo DiCaprio, and Emily Blunt further promises that the film adaptation will be a major endeavor in Hollywood, one that will surely attract attention from both fans of Johnson’s work and those interested in the untold stories of Hawaiian history.

For Johnson, this project isn’t just another career milestone—it’s a way to pay tribute to his Polynesian roots and tell a powerful story that combines history, culture, and personal significance. Fans can look forward to not only the book but the inevitable buzz surrounding the film adaptation, which is sure to be a cinematic event.