Watch Aloha Summer
- PG
- 1988
- 1 hr 38 min
-
5.7 (295)
Aloha Summer is a light-hearted coming-of-age film set in Hawaii during the 1960s. The movie follows the lives of three young men - two Hawaiian locals, Kimo (Yuji Okumoto) and his cousin, Kimo (Chris Makepeace), and a new kid in town, Michael (Keith Wahl). The story opens with a beautiful montage of the Hawaiian landscape, accompanied by a cheerful score that immediately sets the tone for the rest of the movie. Kimo and Kimo, who are both avid surfers, spend their days catching waves and hanging out with their friends. Michael, on the other hand, is adjusting to life in a new town after his family moves from California.
As the summer progresses, the three boys form a bond and go on various adventures together. They explore the island's natural beauty, sneak into a hula show, and, of course, surf. Their dynamic is interesting to watch, as they come from different backgrounds and have different personalities. Kimo and Kimo are carefree and always up for a good time, while Michael is more reserved and struggles to fit in with the locals.
One of the main conflicts of the film involves Kimo's relationship with a girl named Lani (Caron Abellira). Kimo's family expects him to follow in his father's footsteps and become a lawyer, but his true passion lies in surfing. Lani, who shares his love for the sport, encourages him to pursue his dreams. However, their romance is threatened when Lani's overprotective father disapproves of Kimo's lifestyle.
The movie also delves into the issues of Hawaiian identity and the impact of tourism on the islands. Kimo's father, who works in the tourism industry, is portrayed as a sell-out who has forgotten his roots. Meanwhile, Kimo and Kimo's grandfather teach Michael about Hawaiian culture and history, opening his eyes to the importance of preserving their traditions.
Despite these heavier themes, Aloha Summer remains a fun and lighthearted movie. The soundtrack is full of catchy tunes that perfectly capture the spirit of the 60s, and the bright colors and stunning landscapes are a feast for the eyes. The characters are likable and easy to root for, and the performances are solid across the board.
Overall, Aloha Summer is a charming movie that offers a glimpse into the laid-back lifestyle of Hawaii in the 1960s. It's a film about friendship, first love, and finding your place in the world. While it may not be groundbreaking cinema, it's a feel-good movie that will leave you with a smile on your face.