Celebrating 25 years of storytelling: Maui Film Festival honors Robert Schwartzman
A milestone in cinematic celebration
The Maui Film Festival is set to mark its 25th anniversary with a grand celebration from August 29 to September 2 at the Maui Arts and Cultural Center in Kahului. This year, the festival will honor director Robert Schwartzman for his exceptional contribution to cinema, particularly for his film, The Good Half, starring Nick Jonas.
A diverse lineup of films
The festival promises a rich and diverse lineup, featuring 13 feature films and 27 short films from Hawaii and around the globe. This selection aims to showcase compassionate and transformative storytelling, a theme that has been central to the festival’s mission since its inception.
A word from the founder
Barry Rivers, the founder and director of the festival, expressed his excitement about this significant milestone. He emphasized the festival’s role in bringing together the community through powerful and inspiring stories, especially in light of the challenges faced by the Maui community in the past year.
“Maui Film Festival is excited to celebrate its 25th Anniversary, showcasing inspiring filmmaking in the service of compassionate and transformative storytelling. We are delighted to recognize our honoree, director Robert Schwartzman, who has made an exceptional contribution to cinema with his film, The Good Half. Our slate is filled with compelling, entertaining, and magical stories that will bring together and inspire our Maui community, which has endured so much this past year in the aftermath of the wildfires,” said Rivers.
Highlighted films
Among the films to be screened, Universal Pictures’ The Good Half, directed by Schwartzman and starring Nick Jonas, stands out. This film has garnered attention for its heartfelt narrative and strong performances. You can watch the trailer for The Good Half to get a glimpse of what to expect.
Another notable film is Amazon-MGM Studios’ My Old Ass, which promises to be a crowd-pleaser with its unique storyline and engaging characters. Check out the trailer for My Old Ass to see why it’s generating buzz.
The magic of Maui
The Maui Film Festival is more than just a showcase of films; it’s a celebration of the island’s spirit and resilience. The festival has always been a platform for stories that resonate with the local community and beyond. This year’s event is particularly special as it brings together filmmakers, actors, and audiences in a shared experience of cinematic magic.
Personal reflections
As a cinema enthusiast, the Maui Film Festival holds a special place in my heart. It’s not just about watching films; it’s about being part of a community that values storytelling as a means of connection and healing. The festival’s commitment to showcasing films that inspire and transform is a testament to the power of cinema.
Join the celebration
If you’re a fan of cinema, TV series, or music, the Maui Film Festival is an event you won’t want to miss. It’s an opportunity to immerse yourself in a world of compelling stories and to celebrate the art of filmmaking. You can purchase tickets and view the film schedule here.
In the spirit of the festival, let’s come together to celebrate the power of storytelling and the magic of cinema. Whether you’re a long-time attendee or a first-time visitor, the Maui Film Festival promises an unforgettable experience.