HONOLULU (HI Now) - Local stories are full with even more mana when they are rooted in real memories. Local filmmaker Yana Alliata is bringing that emotion to the big screen with her directorial debut, Reeling. The psychological thriller was born from a simple idea, a backyard luau with friends and ohana, then grew into a haunting story about memory, identity, and the moment life changes forever.
The film follows a man who returns home for a birthday luau after a life altering accident, only to uncover the buried memory of a tragedy. Shot entirely on Oahu in just three days, Reeling captures familiar island textures, local rituals, and the beauty of an aloha Friday setting while letting something unsettling simmer beneath the surface.
Alliata cast real friends and family alongside professional actors to keep the story grounded, organic, and true to Hawaii. With support from Future of Film is Female, Tribeca Films, and NEON, Reeling now makes its commercial debut at Ward Consolidated Theatres, marking a big moment for a 100 percent Hawaii-produced independent film.
Reeling screens at Ward Consolidated Theatres from June 11 through June 18. To learn more, visit yanaalliata.com, follow @reelingmovie on Instagram, or purchase tickets at consolidatedtheatres.com.
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