The poignant line, “I feel so trapped on this rock,” resonates deeply with many residents of Hawaiʻi. This sentiment is a thematic cornerstone of the newly unveiled coming-of-age film, “Growing Up Local,” which illuminates the diverse challenges faced by individuals navigating the journey of growing up in Hawaiʻi – a struggle that extends beyond the current generation.
Set against the backdrop of Waimānalo, the movie unfolds the narratives of three generations within a single family. The protagonist, Stanley Nakata, a high school senior, grapples with the weight of expectations from family, friends, and his girlfriend.
Although Makoa Sanchez, who portrays Stanley, takes on the role of a high school senior, he himself is slightly older. A recent graduate from UH Mānoa, Sanchez marks his debut in the cinematic realm with “Growing Up Local.”
Director James Sereno, an alumnus of UH, shared that his student experiences have subtly influenced the film’s narrative. The creative journey of crafting the movie commenced over 15 years ago, with Sereno often finding inspiration while immersed in the vibrant atmosphere of Campus Center.
“In Hawaiʻi, when we grew up here, it’s all about family and all about everyone and the consideration of your choices,” Sereno commented. “That is we, we live a lot for we, and then where is the me?”
The authenticity of “Growing Up Local” resonates so deeply with Hawaiʻi residents that cast members found themselves closely connected to the characters they portrayed.
Ocean Rea, who depicts Stanley’s girlfriend, highlighted how leaving Hawaiʻi transcends personal exploration – it’s also about those left behind and the evolution of one’s own identity.
The decision to depart the islands often comes with profound complexities, encapsulating themes of self-worth and identity discovery.
“Take in that community around you, but do not let it define you. [Don’t let] your surroundings dictate who you are and what you do,” Sanchez advised fellow Hawaiʻi residents grappling with similar challenges.
“Growing Up Local” goes beyond using Hawaiʻi merely as a picturesque setting. The film delves into the intricacies of island life, a realm often left unexplored by mainstream cinema. To authentically capture this essence, the production process respectfully engaged with the Waimānalo neighborhood, temporarily halting certain activities to accommodate filming.
The collaboration between the film crew and residents was underpinned by trust and respect. Sereno recounted a moment when they temporarily shut down the neighborhood for filming, and the residents embraced the endeavor, recognizing that the story was a reflection of their own lives.
Sanchez emphasized the groundbreaking nature of the movie, which was entirely conceived, executed, and presented with local talent and resources.
While films like “Doogie Kameāloha, M.D.” and “Lilo & Stitch” incorporate local actors and Hawaiian locations, many fall short of accurately depicting the authentic Hawaiʻi experience. The cast of “Growing Up Local” echoed this sentiment, stating that media often skews the portrayal of Hawaiʻi.
“Hawaiʻi isn’t very well represented,” Sanchez explained. “Movies or media nowadays, never quite get anything quite right. There are always things that are hung up on.”
By providing an alternative lens through which to view Hawaiʻi, the film aspires to connect with a broader audience. However, Sereno’s intention was not to appeal to a wider demographic. He crafted “Growing Up Local” as a homage to the intricacies of growing up in Hawaiʻi, resulting in a limited release tailored for the local community.
For a fleeting two-week span, starting Friday, August 4, “Growing Up Local” will grace the screens of Consolidated Theatres in Ward and Pearlridge. Subsequently, streaming opportunities will be made available on growinguplocal.com.
