Entertainment
By Jamie Taylor
Updated: Jan. 29, 2021
Originally Published: Jan. 29, 2021
After a long, dreary winter, we all crave a little escape, and what better way to unwind than with a family-friendly flick? Enter Netflix’s latest offering: Finding Ohana. Directed by Samira Lee, this charming adventure film combines elements of The Goonies, Indiana Jones, and a sprinkle of Lilo & Stitch.
The story follows two siblings from Brooklyn, Leo and Maya, who are less than thrilled to travel to Oahu with their mother to care for their grandfather. While one might find it hard to believe anyone could be moody about a trip to Hawaii, Leo and Maya certainly express their reluctance. Shortly after arriving, their mother discovers that her father faces financial troubles, threatening to take away their family home. Meanwhile, Maya stumbles upon a journal filled with clues to a hidden treasure, and Leo finds himself awkwardly infatuated with a local girl.
To address some critiques, Finding Ohana doesn’t offer many surprises; my son and I could predict most plot twists. Leo can be a bit grating at times, and there are a few unnecessary musical numbers. However, despite these minor flaws, the film is visually stunning, showcasing the breathtaking beauty of Hawaii—a much-needed mental getaway for viewers.
This adventure is enjoyable for all ages. Even my 14-year-old, initially skeptical about the film’s lack of edge (read: no profanity), found himself asking, “What did I miss?” after stepping away for a moment. Parents will appreciate the nostalgic vibes reminiscent of classic ’80s adventure films, now featuring the representation we truly need.
Finding Ohana is packed with over a dozen Easter eggs referencing ’80s films. One standout moment is when Maya uses cans of SPAM as makeshift stilts to drive her grandfather’s truck—a clever nod to Indiana Jones: Temple of Doom.
More than just nostalgia and adventure, Finding Ohana portrays Hawaii as a vibrant culture and community. The film includes over 100 Hawaiian words, and the grandfather speaks in Hawaiian throughout, highlighting the island’s rich heritage. The production team made sure to honor this authenticity by hiring a Hawaiian consultant and having a traditional Hawaiian priest bless their sets.
As a fun fact, instead of the customary cast and crew gifts like shirts, native trees were planted for each member—how awesome is that? The movie embraces feel-good themes of friendship and family (ohana), and the stunning visuals are enough to inspire anyone to check out real estate in Oahu—though it might not be feasible!
If you’re searching for a delightful movie for Family Movie Night, especially with younger kids, Finding Ohana is a must-watch. Gather your loved ones, settle in for a cozy evening, and discover the true essence of aloha and ohana.
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Summary:
Finding Ohana is a heartwarming family adventure film now available on Netflix, blending nostalgia and cultural representation. It tells the story of two Brooklyn siblings who navigate their grandfather’s financial troubles in Hawaii while uncovering a treasure map. With beautiful scenery, relatable themes, and a commitment to authenticity, this movie is a perfect choice for Family Movie Night.
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