“Kuleana,” written and directed by Brian Kohne
I can’t wait to see the movie “Kuleana.” Written and directed by Brian Kohne, this movie has a message about its title, which means “responsibility”: Kuleana is a privilege, not a burden.
If you study Hawaiian history and Hawaiiana, you’ve probably heard the term, “Hawaiian Renaissance.” The term refers to the 1970’s when cultural practitioners, political activists, and kūpuna (elders) brought about a resurgence of Hawaiian culture – Ōlelo Hawai’i (Hawaiian language), hula, mele (music), traditional customs and practices, and political organization. Today there are hula hālau (schools) and dancers all over the world; Hawaiian musicians go on world tours regularly; people from around the world travel to Hawai’i to study with artists and cultural practitioners; schools include online teaching; the Hōkūle’a has completed a worldwide voyage; and Hawaiians exercise their political power with growing efficacy.
I would love to see another Hawaiian renaissance of sorts, one that inspires younger generations who cut their teeth on all things visual and digital, and movies like “Kuleana” could play a huge part in this. When you weave the past, present day, and the future together in storytelling, all kinds of light bulbs might turn on.
Set in 1971, “Kuleana” is the story about a Vietnam vet who returns home to Mau’i to protect his family, defend their land, and clear his father’s name. The movie features a cast of actors from Hawai’i, including Moronai Kanekoa, who I had the pleasure of watching in the one-man play, “The Legend of Ko’olau.” The movie won several film awards in 2017, and Willie K wrote the original score. Nuff said?
Hurry, Brian Kohne, bring your movie to northern California! We’ll get the popcorn ready.
©Living off Island, Writing Wahine, 2018.
Living off Island 