Updates! 09.07.2025
I put a lot more thought into what I want to accomplish with this film. not just visually, but politically and emotionally. I've started setting rules for myself that will guide the structure and keep the process grounded in intention:
Inclusion of Stop Motion Puppet
- This puppet will be a grounding, possibly surreal figure of order within visual chaos. She will be a character that represents humor, control, and tradition in a way that balances the rest of the film
Inclusion of both Kahiko and ʻAuana Hula - I want to highlight both styles to show the spectrum of Hawaiian cultural expression. A grounded dance, to one that is more upbeat and often sexualized.
Inclusion of Key National and Cultural Symbols: - “Pledge of Allegiance”
- “The Star-Spangled Banner” (U.S. National Anthem)
- “Hawaiʻi Ponoʻī”
- “We are not American.” (Dr. Haunani Kay-Trask speech)
I’ve decided on my ʻAuana hula: "Ka Uluwehi O Ke Kai" . It's one of my favorite mele to perform, and I feel connected to it on a personal level. It’s fast, joyful, and grounded in place. It'll be perfect for the “modern” section I’ll shoot in early October.
I'm also planning to make a poster! Inspired by the one I attached above. It’ll be a visual manifesto for the film and something that helps me clarify the vibe and intention.
Expanding Ideas
I’ve been thinking about structure and could potentially explore:
- Dual-channel or bisected visuals/sound to express tension and contradiction. Like between colonized and Indigenous worldviews.
- Text on screen to deliver short, direct hits of historical or political context.
- Visual & sound distortion during colonial symbols (e.g., pledge/anthem) to physically reject their presence in the film space.
- Using macro shots to slow things down and draw attention to the physical details of culture: fabric, skin, lei, sand, etc. I have an awesome DP for that!
My next steps are:
- Finalizing shoot dates (with space between for experimentation)
- Researching Carson Munn and Vihn for style references
- Beginning poster design and storyboarding
