Aloha e everyone!
The last week has been pretty amazing! My film, Aloha Life, received the Golden Kahuna for Best Hawaiian Film at the Honolulu International Film Festival. Many of us who worked on the film joined filmmakers from all over the world to celebrate the power and beauty of film. I was struck by how so many people use this medium in so many varied ways to translate their messages, their stories, and their passions.
I will be honest, I never dreamed of being able to share the Aloha Life on film. When the Brian Rusch, the director, first told me he wanted to make a film, I had no idea how we could accomplish it.. I mean A MOVIE!
After I meditated on it, I felt it was a way that I would be able to reach people throughout the world that I may never be able to otherwise. I sat down with Brian and we reviewed my writings and seminars. His goal was to make Aloha Life into a Docu-seminar. Bring in the beauty and power of Hawaii while also conveying the message of my ancestors.
When we started actual filming, I was amazed at the process. I am grateful to Brian for assembling such a hard working and knowledgeable crew. From our initial meetings to when I watched the first screening -- every person did their part to bring this project to the world. I know now to have faith in others. As we say in Hawai'i, `A`ohe hana nui ke alu `ia or No work is to large when done by all. I am eternally grateful to Anthony, Gabriela, Matt, Zack, Jason, Mariah, Bianca and most especially Brian for helping to make this dream come true.
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