Description

Halawa Valley is sacred land in Hawaii, with rich traditions that are at risk of being lost to modernization. Located on the island of Molokai, Halawa is home to Pilipo Solatorio, the sole heir to the way of life in the valley. Teachings passed on from Solatorio’s ancestors guide him on how to live harmoniously with nature and provide him with methods of educating others through stories and music.

These practices are the root of Solatorio’s family heritage, connecting them to the land and cultivating their Hawaiian spirit of Aloha. Solatorio worries about the future of Halawa and needs a successor to continue his legacy. His son, Greg, and two hanai (adopted) sons, Josh and Jason, cherish and uphold their familial traditions, but lead modern lives. One must commit and make the sacrifice to keep Halawa’s great spirit alive.

Filmmaker Matt Yamashita is a Molokai local and has unique expertise working within Hawaii-based communities and cultures. His work is dedicated to the focus of telling Hawaii’s stories through a local lens.

— Jason Nou

Co-presented by: Asian Pacific Islander Cultural Center

Credits

Director/Producer/Writer/Cinematographer/Editor/Sound: Matt Yamashita
Subject: Pilipo "Pilipo" Solatorio, Greg Solatorio, Josh Pastrana, Jason Poole

Preceded By

1. 

   Roots of ‘Ulu

   John Atonelli / SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS / USA / 2015 / Documentary, Short / 36 mins

   “The roots of ‘ulu are deep.” ‘Ulu, or breadfruit, was once a staple of native Hawaiian foodways. explore the cultural significance and revival of this revered plant amongst native practitioners and agricultural experts.

   Precedes: Sons of Halawa

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