MauiFEST Hawaii-Molokai Film Festival Information

Join the third annual MauiFEST Molokai Film Festival on Dec. 9 for a celebration of culture and the arts at Kaunakakai Ball Park. Gates open at 3:00 p.m. and music begins at 4:00. Films start at sunset under the Molokai stars. Admission is free! No coolers please.

This year’s festival features award-winning films, filmmakers and an all-star lineup of world renowned musicians. Scheduled to appear are Grammy and Hoku winner John Cruz, 2006 Grammy winner and slack key master George Kahumoku, Maui’s own Tita – Kathy Collins, multi Hoku winner Dennis Kamakahi and Molokai’s own Hawaiian Prime Time led by Zack Helm.

Hawaiian style food booths will also serve up grinds, and there will be cancer awareness booths by the Molokai Cancer Fund and the Molokai Community Health Center.

Made of Music – The Story of John Cruz

Directed by Leslie Cole Truglio

The film tells the poignant story of performer John Cruz. The movie features guest appearances by special friends Jack Johnson, Jackson Browne, Kelly Slater and Jake Shimabukuro. Other Cruz family members add their insight as well, making this revealing story a true gem. Cruz will preview his new songs after the premiere.

Frank DeLima – 30 Years of Laughter

Directed by Kenneth K. Martinez Burgmaier

Just returning home from the world premiere in a San Francisco Film Festival – a journey of the Hawaii King of Comedy, Mr. Frank DeLima. Winner of the Aloha Visionary Filmmakers Award at the Hana Film Festival.

Dreams of a Pagan Tattooed Savage

Directed by Robert Pennybacker

An award-winning film about a Polynesian warrior's struggle in the modern age of civilization.

Sunday Wind

Directed by Michael Wurth

The 14-minute film looks at the fate of Hawaii civilians during the attack on Pearl Harbor and stars Ray Bumatai, Shiro Kawai, Troy Ignacio and local filmmakers George Russell, Gerard Elmore and Michael Hennessy. "Sunday Wind" is one chapter in a larger project chronicling key moments in Hawaii history through the eyes of one local family. Winner at the Hawaii International Film Festival 2006.

Polynesian Power

Directed by Jeremy Spear and Robert Pennington

Narrated by Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, Polynesian Power chronicles the ascent of Polynesians in American football and the cultural history that defines this journey. Profiling two Samoan athletes, Pisa Tinoisamoa and Isaac Sopoaga – one from the islands and one from the hood – Polynesian Power explores America’s diversity and the challenge of chasing dreams.

Of Wind and Waves – The Life of Woody Brown

Directed by David L. Brown

This movie explores Woody Brown’s life in his own words and from the perspectives of his family and friends who have shared his journey. It provides a valuable cross-cultural portrait of the land, people and culture of Hawaii over the six and a half decade span of Woody’s life there. While the explosive economic growth of the islands has unquestionably undermined and obscured many Hawaiian traditions, Woody’s story shows that the spirit of aloha remains very much alive.

Wahine O Ke Kai

Directed by Vince Keala Lucero

Donna Kahi Kahakui paddled from Oahu to Kauai to Lehua to Ni`ihau in a matter of a few days. The Molokai Hoe Canoe Race is 41 miles. Most men do it as a crew of 9 with 6 paddling at a time. Donna did nearly 200 miles by herself. Her goal was to raise awareness of the ocean and for our kuleana (responsibility) to protect it. Honorable mention at the Hawaii International Film Festival 2005.

The Shimmering

Directed by Darius Shahmir

Based on the shark tale "It Swims When You Sleep" by Keola Beamer, this must-see movie was shot on 35 mm film, the format used by professional Hollywood studios. Beamer also wrote the original soundtrack.