BLUE FISH - a short film made in Hawaii

Nainoa, living on his own after pushing away his family, spends a day reconnecting with his grandpa.

This project was something that I have been wanting to do for quite some time. For several years, I have wanted to shoot a film that would get some of my relatives on screen-- Not because they are experienced actors by any means, but because they are just characters in real life. I reached out to Nainoa a few months back on a whim to see if he would be willing to carry the role of our main character. I wanted someone with various talents (music, art, fishing, etc.) and was honestly surprised that he was down for it. He came through and was instrumental in developing his character on screen. My grandpa's brother is someone who I spend time with and every time I do, I wish someone else was present to witness his nuances and character. Everyone knows someone like uncle Marvin and I hope we were able to encapsulate that on screen. His reaction to me approaching him with the role was an instant "ohh, YEAH! Eh Kapena! You gon send me Hollywood ah!?". I am extremely appreciative of them both as this film wouldn't exist without them. :)
-Kapena

Massive mahalo to everyone who made this project come to life! Thank you for watching, we hope you enjoy. Any feedback and thoughts in the comments are appreciated!

Written and Directed by
Kapena Liu
Kurt Hoffmann

Cast
Nainoa Kamai - Nainoa
Marvin Iseke - Grandpa
Leilani Fujinaga - Aunty Thelma

Fisherman Extras
Kalawaia Kamai
Wylan Cabuag
Issac Ramons

Cinematography by
Kurt Hoffmann

Edited by
Kapena Liu
Kurt Hoffmann

Ending Soundtrack
Dotager - Flowers in Silver

"Blue Fish" Graphic Title

Behind the Scenes
Heaven Zhiman
Solomon Laker

Special Thanks
Zion Valentine
Matthew Naki
Cyrus Apeles
Cody Horne

Shot on

BMPCC6K with 50mm
BMPCC4K with Sirui Anamorphic 35mm