Kapaemahu

This film provides the foundation story of how the four boulders of Waikiki Beach in Hawaii came to be. These boulders, much like Mauna Kea from Standing Above the Clouds, have a rich history in the lives of the Hawaiian people.

Unfortunately, unlike Mauna Kea, the story of the four boulders of Waikiki Beach was lost to the current generation. This was primarily due to the rise of infrastructure on the island, to the point that the boulders became more land features than the actual landmarks the Hawaiian people proclaim it to be.

We Gon’ Be Alright (PBS Short Film Festival 2020)

We will be alright, as in, a community affected by the demolition of their beloved community center will continue to adapt and overcome.

Much like Kapaemahu and Standing Above the Clouds, We Gon’ Be Alright is another film that tackles the heavy topic of culturalism in America. The need for rapid urban and housing development is having a negative influence on inner-city identity, whether it is a group of boulders, a mountain, or a lowly priced building, the key theme in this film is societal resiliency.

Additional PBS films to check out:

The Love Bugs

The Love Bugs is a cute film about an aging couple who reminisces about how they fell in love through their love of bugs. This film addresses diverse topics, including aging, academics, and how to pursue your passions to the fullest. It is very much a film about finding out what (and who) you love and going after it.

Grab My Hand

Grab My Hand is such a heartwarming short film about a brother-to-brother relationship that spanned a lifetime. The story of their brotherhood is recounted by the son of one of the brothers, told as he saw them through his young eyes. The film is full of such love and admiration, and it is worth the watch.