New Samoan film shines light on life in Hawaii beyond the tourist image

A new independent movie is bringing attention to the real-life experiences of Samoans living in Hawaii, exploring themes of family, culture, and the challenges of moving away from home.

Written, directed, and produced by Julian Cepeda, “HomeTown Hero” follows Johann Tuiolosega (played by Russell Satele), a student adviser living on Oahu. Johann faces a tough choice when he gets a job offer away from his home, forcing him to decide between his career ambitions and his duties to his family and childhood friends.

The film was shot entirely in Hawaii, mostly in Nānākuli on Oahu’s Waianae Coast. Moving beyond the usual tourist image of the islands, it shows the real struggles Pacific Islanders face, including unemployment, substance abuse, cultural disconnection, and family pressure.

One part of the story focuses on Johann’s younger brother, Jakey, who wants to be a rapper. When his father, Toa, dismisses his music, Jakey feels rejected and isolated. Searching for acceptance, he turns to drugs and begins to become distant from his loved ones.

Film critic and historian Ed Rampell, who taught in Samoa in the late 1970s and specialises in Pacific Island cinema, praised the movie. He said the cast, including Maima Savusa, Itumalomanu’atele Uikirifi, and Lori Pelenise Tuisano, brings great depth to the characters.

Rampell called the project an important step for Pacific Island representation, saying that it features a mostly local Samoan and Hawaiian cast and crew.

The movie arrives as Pacific Island stories get more global attention, ahead of the live-action Moana film starring Dwayne The Rock Johnson.