Post #172433 by Humuhumu on Sat, Jul 16, 2005 12:19 PM

Definitely a don't-miss -- it's always great to see a crowd that's being introduced to King Kukulele for the first time, they have no idea what they're in for.

Bird of Paradise is no cinematic masterpiece, but as a TIKI film, it's pretty top-notch. I've only seen it on video, and I've wished I could see it in more pristine shape -- now's my chance! Art direction is by Lyle Wheeler, who would go on to do art direction for South Pacific, and even more importantly, Aloha Jhoe's in Palm Springs! If you like "The Love Song of Kalua," you'll love this movie, 'cause it's in it a LOT. There is some lovely dancing and tikis in it, the Chief is played by "Prince Lei Lani" (don't know what his story is, he was also in Waikiki Wedding and Hawaiian Nights), but then the Kahuna is played by a guy named "Maurice Schwartz." Welcome to 1951 cinema.

The Secret of Easter Island is a great short, and Jeff actually went to Rapa Nui for two weeks to film it. It's fun to hear some of the stories about how it was made, perhaps he'll share them. I would have thought that getting on the island with all those props would have been tricky, but it turned out the tricky part was getting off the island....

Then add into the mix Tiki Diablo, Kevin Kidney, Crazy Al... the word "extravaganza" comes to mind.

Thank Ku this is an evening event, so I'll have time to recover from Dr. Z's blowout the night before!