HAVEN 3-in-1 Lantern

It has been quite a busy hurricane season, so I was thankful to have been sent a complimentary HAVEN 3-in-1 Lantern 6000 to review.  

This light source and power bank is similar to other solar lanterns I have, but with a few differences.

The most obvious is the shape.  I like the cylindrical shape and the ease in which to expand and collapse the lantern.  The lantern shines very bright, and has 9 light modes, including red light mode, flashlight mode, and SOS mode.

The HAVEN is equipped with a sturdy solar panel atop the lantern, allowing it to be recharged even if the power is out.  In my initial test run, it took just 8 hours to charge from 25% to 75%, which was quite fast compared to the other solar lanterns I have.  The lantern also comes with a USB-C cable, allowing you to charge via a power adapter. 

Charging a phone was also pretty quick.  In 1 hour, a phone went from 48% to 88%.  The lantern battery went down from 100% to 75% after charging the phone.  

One thing that I dislike is how the battery indicator button will activate the flashlight, but other than that, I think the HAVEN 3-in-1 Lantern is a great product to have during a power outage as a source of light or power for your phone.   It's thoughtfully designed, and the price is very reasonable compared to similar products.  

Visit the HAVEN website for more information. 

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Hoppers Review

Disclosure: A complimentary code was received for review purposes.

Disney and Pixar’s Hoppers is now available on 4K UHD, Blu-ray and DVD!

Synopsis
In this animated comedy adventure, animal lover Mabel seizes an opportunity to use a new technology to ‘hop’ her consciousness into a lifelike robotic beaver and communicate directly with animals. As she makes amazing discoveries, Mabel befriends a charismatic beaver and must rally the entire animal kingdom to face a major, imminent human threat.

Hoppers refers to how people's brains / minds can "hop" into the bodies of robotic animals.  This scientific process comes in very handy when the main character, Mabel, stumbles upon the procedure and realizes it can help in her efforts to save a glade from being destroyed with the construction of a highway.

There are lots of funny antics and humorous moments, as Mabel, who "hops" into a robotic beaver, tries to rally other animals and find other beavers to help save the glade.  

She learns a lot about animals, nature, and even herself in the process.

My son enjoyed the movie and the surprising twists, and he thought it was funny watching Mabel (as a beaver) acclimate to other animals and how they live.

My favorite part of the movie had to do with the unexpected demise of the Insect Queen - it was actually quite hilarious.  My son loved related scenes - what happened to the successor of the Insect Queen, and how new royalty was crowned.  

I found this movie to be very applicable to what is going on in today's world, especially in Hawaii, where humans are the biggest threat to our natural resources and endangered species.  

Hoppers is a fun, adventurous movie that makes both kids and adults think more deeply about how our actions affect others, as well as how they affect animals and the environment.  

Bonus Features*

• The Critter Diaries: Wander behind the scenes with director Daniel Chong and the Pixar creative team as they explore Yellowstone, study wildlife, and find real-life inspiration for our favorite new animated characters from Hoppers.
• Hopping In: The Making of Hoppers: Hop into the making of the movie as filmmakers, cast, and crew share how their ideas, collaboration, and creative process brought the story, animation, and lovable characters to life in Pixar’s Hoppers.
• "Meet King George" Scene Breakdown: Dive deep with director Daniel Chong and the filmmaking team as they reveal the craft of making King George’s Superlodge. Get insight into the directing process, editing, VFX, animation, and production design.
• Beaverton Revealed: Explore Hoppers to find surprising Pixar film cameos, hidden references, and plenty of fun, behind-the-scenes facts.
• Dam Good Bloopers: Laugh along with your favorite voice actors from Hoppers as they have fun bringing their characters to life in the recording booth.
• Deleted Scenes: Check out these scenes that didn’t make the final cut, as introduced by director Daniel Chong and editor Axel Geddes.
• Cold Open
• The Glade
• The Mission
• Kings Arrive
• George's Bachelor Pad
• Helicopter Ride

*Bonus features may vary by product and retailer

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New BeachHouse Publishing Books: Edith Kanaka‘ole: The Heart of Hula and Lizards, Giants, and Gods: Stories Behind Hawaiian Place Names

Disclosure: Complimentary books were received for review purposes.

Over the past several years, there has been a concerted effort to focus on Hawai‘i and its people, roots, tradition, culture, and foods.  

Whether through workshops, dining experiences, training, books, or social media, it has been amazing to see people dive in and learn so much about their own culture or this place we are lucky to call home.

Two children's books were recently released by BeachHouse Publishing that even adults will learn from.  

Edith Kanaka‘ole: The Heart of Hula
written by David Del Rocco and illustrated by Storm Kano

The Wayfinders biography series focuses on people integral to our culture and who have left a lasting legacy on Hawai‘i. The newest installment features Aunty Edith Kanaka‘ole - a renowned kumu, artist, and cultural practitioner.

It's an easy read for young ones to learn more about Aunty Edith's life and her community contributions, and the brief stories about her childhood and upbringing were so interesting.  This book has some personal significance to me, as my work in Hilo has allowed me the good fortune to have met and worked with some of Aunty Edith's family members.  

Lizards, Giants, and Gods: Stories Behind Hawaiian Place Names
written by Hugh Dunn and illustrated by Kelsie Dayna

In Lizards, Giants, and Gods, kids can learn more about the stories behind various places throughout the islands. I personally did not know the stories behind many of the place names, so I was very intrigued.

I feel it's so important for kids to learn the Hawaiian names and why the those names were chosen, as many people, myself included, only are familiar with the Western names of many of these places (eg Ke Awa Lau o Pu‘uloa vs Pearl Harbor and Mokuola vs Coconut Island). The vivid illustrations help to develop the stories, making them even more fascinating.

Definitely recommend these books to add to your keiki's library!

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Zootopia 2 Review - Now on 4K Ultra HD™ Blu-ray™ and DVD

Disclosure: Complimentary code was received for review purposes

Film Synopsis

In Walt Disney Animation Studios’ Zootopia 2, rookie cops Judy Hopps (voiced by Ginnifer Goodwin) and Nick Wilde (voiced by Jason Bateman) find themselves on the twisting trail of a great mystery when Gary De’Snake (voiced by Academy Award® winner Ke Huy Quan) arrives in Zootopia and turns the animal metropolis upside down. To crack the case, Judy and Nick must go undercover to unexpected new parts of town, where their growing partnership is tested like never before.

Zootopia 2 focuses on the misunderstood snakes and how they got such a bad reputation.  Judy and Nick, who are now partners, set out on a mission to find out why the snakes are not allowed in the city, while unscrupulous officials try to stop them from uncovering the truth.

The partnership between Judy and Nick go through ups and downs (literally) in the movie as they search for answers and find themselves in peculiar and scary situations.

And once they find the answers they were looking for, they take accountability of their issues and vow to be better partners.

Zootopia 2 features many familiar faces from the first film, and lots of fun new characters.  It's a movie full of adventure, humor, and thrill, as well as compassion and empathy.

And at the heart of the movie is a story about how differences are not weaknesses, as Nick explains to new recruits that we're more alike than we think we're different.  If we just take the time to talk to and listen to one another - our differences could actually make us stronger.

Wise words that humans in today's world should heed.

Zootopia 2 is now on 4k Ultra HD Blu-ray and DVD!

Bonus Features*

• Featurettes:

o   The Zookeepers — Trot along with writer/director Jared Bush and director Byron Howard for a tour of Walt Disney Animation Studios! Get a behind the scenes look as they open up the doors to meet cast and crew and share about all the work done to bring the movie to life.

o   A City of Stars — Meet the fur-tastic voice actors behind the cast of Zootopia 2 as filmmakers share the joy of having the original cast returning and how each new role found its purr-fect match.

o   Everybody Can Draw! — Sketch along with Benson Shum, Animation Supervisor, as he talks about his role on Zootopia 2 and guides viewers in drawing everyone’s favorite new beaver, Nibbles!

o   Zoo-prising Secrets — Uncover ssssurprising references and characters from some of your favorite Walt Disney Animation Studios films hidden throughout the movie, along with fun facts.

o   Wilde Times in the Booth — Hop inside the recording booth for plenty of laughs and behind-the-scenes fun. See how the hilarious cast brings their characters to life!

o   The Treat Trolley — Meet the cheerful crew behind the Treat Trolley that brings smiles and snacks throughout the halls of Disney Animation to keep the studio artists fueled and energized.

o   "Zoo" Music Video by Shakira — Celebrate friendship and adventure with Shakira in her music video for the movie’s new song, “Zoo.”

 

• Deleted Scenes – Check out the scenes that didn’t make the final cut, with an overall introduction by directors Jared Bush and Byron Howard.

• What's In the Box?

• Where Are They Now?
• Animal Hospital

• Welcome to the Team

• Desert Festival

• Clawhauser Tracks Judy

• A Plight at the Museum

• Clawhauser's Family

 

*Bonus features vary by product and retailer

 

Feature Run Time

Approx. 108 minutes

 

Rating

PG

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Tron: Ares - Now Streaming Exclusively On Disney+

Disclosure: A complimentary code was received for review purposes.

Synopsis

Get ready for the electrifying action and adventure of Tron: Ares. When a highly sophisticated Program named Ares is sent from the digital world into the real world on a dangerous mission, it marks humankind’s first encounter with AI beings.

Tron: Ares is a fast-paced, action-packed, futuristic adventure that delves into the intricacies of humanity and artificial intelligence.

Tron: Ares combined sci-fi with a bit of comedy and a number of nostalgic references in a complex storyline that affects both real and digital worlds.

Tron and Tron Legacy, along with Tron: Ares, are all streaming on Disney+, so you can watch how the story unfolds from the beginning!

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Freakier Friday Review - Now on Blu-ray!

Disclosure: Complimentary code was given for review purposes.

Film Synopsis

Freakier Friday picks up years after Tess (Jamie Lee Curtis) and Anna (Lindsay Lohan) endured an identity crisis. Anna now has a daughter of her own and a soon-to-be stepdaughter. As they navigate the myriad challenges that come when two families merge, Tess and Anna discover that lightning might indeed strike twice. 

Review:

No one in the family had watched Freaky Friday before, so we made sure to watch it before watching Freakier Friday.

To sum up Freakier Friday in a single sentence, my youngest son said "It’s the same as Freaky Friday, but more complicated."

Anna is now a single mom, who gets help from Tess from time to time. Anna ends up falling in love with a man who happens to be the father of her daughter's (Harper) nemesis (Lily).

Emotions are high as the two families plan a future as one, as the daughters are against the blending of the families.

One night, at Anna's bachelorette party, they meet a psychic, and subsequently there is a literal shake-up amongst the four people, in which they experience an earthquake and wake up in someone else's body - Anna and Harper exchanged bodies, and Lily and Tess exchanged as well.

It was quite funny and impressive to watch Curtis portray a shocked and unhappy Lily, who is quite high maintenance, in an elder woman's body.

As they all pretended to be each other, the younger girls planned to do whatever they could to break up the wedding.

And they were nearly successful.

But by stepping in someone else's shoes and living life as another, they were able to discover secrets of sacrifice and heartbreak, hope and love, while realizing that they all really need each other after all.

Although I enjoyed Freaky Friday more, Freakier Friday was still amusing and clever, and I think portraying a character who is acting as another character takes a lot of skill. My son enjoyed the movie as well, and his favorite part of the movie was the Pink Slip performance.

Digital & Blu-ray Bonus Materials*

• Deleted Scenes – Check out the scenes that didn’t make the final cut.

• Trevor's New Song
• Extended Dance Lesson 
• Anna Cancels Wedding 
• Pickleball Team Announcements 
• Beta Girl Backs Up Lily 
• Intensity Of The V's 
  Blake Doesn't Like What She Hears 
• Malibu 
• Eric Reads Tess's Books 
• School Pickup 

 

• Featurettes:

• Making Things Freakier – More than two decades later, the band is back together! Go behind the scenes as returning cast members talk about reprising their roles. Learn about the stunts, taking on each other’s mannerisms – and how this film is a love letter to Los Angeles.

 

• Where Were You When... – Join the original cast as they reflect on the fun and magic of the 2003 production and learn where new cast members were in 2003. Writer Jordan Weiss shares a great anecdote that reveals the fandom and staying power of the earlier classic.

 

• Flashback Friday – This playful, narrated piece reveals the hidden nods to 2003’s Freaky Fridayalong with some “freakier” fun facts about the sequel.

 

• "Baby" Lyric Music Video – Catch this heartfelt lyric video that combines clips from the movie with behind-the-scenes production footage.

 

*Bonus features may vary by product and retailer

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Review: Elio - Available on Digital Platforms and Now on Blu-ray!

Disclosure: Complimentary code was provided for review purposes.

Synopsis
Elio, a space fanatic with an active imagination, finds himself on a cosmic misadventure where he must form new bonds with eccentric alien lifeforms, navigate a crisis of intergalactic proportions and somehow discover who he is truly meant to be.

Our review:

Elio is an orphaned boy who yearns to be abducted by aliens.  He tries anything and everything - ham radios, contraptions, signs, and more in hopes of it happening.  He parks himself at the beach, along with all of his equipment, for hours on end in hopes the aliens arrive.

One night, he meets Bryce and Caleb who wants to join his Ham Radio Club.  They end up in a scuffle, which results in Elio going to sleepaway camp.

It's at camp that he once again runs into Bryce and Caleb, and while ending up in another scuffle, Elio's dream comes true - he gets abducted by aliens.  

He ends up in the Communiverse, and pretends to be the leader of Earth to face Lord Grigon, who aims to destroy the Communiverse.  By preventing Lord Grigon from destroying the Communiverse, Elio will get a permanent spot in the Communiverse, and not have to return to Earth, where he doesn't feel like anyone cares about him.  

Things don't go as planned, but ultimately Elio discovers that he is worthy and has a purpose just as who he is.  He doesn't have to pretend to be someone or something he's not.  

The movie itself was fun and adventuresome, with fantastical creatures and scenes that help stir imagination and creativity.

Elio is a great story about compassion and embracing your uniqueness.

We've all felt alone at some points, and in many ways, Elio reinforces the fact that we are indeed not alone . . . 

Bonus Features*

• Inside the Communiverse: The World and Characters of Elio – Launch behind the scenes with the cast and crew to get an in-depth look at the design and development of our meteoric main characters, as well as the making of all the celestial environments that make up Elio's universe.
• Out of This World: An Astro Q&A – Calling all space enthusiasts! Voice actors Yonas Kibreab (Elio) and Remy Edgerly (Glordon) meet with a real-life astronaut to discuss space travel, possible alien life on other planets, and why it's important to study space.
• Astronomic Art Class: Ooooo and Glordon – Join Nicolle Castro, the lead story artist, as she shares her role on the film and guides viewers through drawing a couple of the film's interstellar characters, Ooooo and Glordon.
• Extraterrestrial Easter Eggs and Fun Facts – Uncover the references and characters from some of your favorite Pixar films hidden throughout Elio, along with other fun facts.
• Galactic Gag Reel – Discover the fun inside the recording booth with the starry voice actors from Disney and Pixar's Elio as they bring their characters to life with some entertaining laughs.
• Deleted Scenes – Check out the scenes that didn't make the final cut:
• Bike Chase
• Garden Party  
• Carver Legend
• Questa's Second Test
• Home Visit

*Bonus features may vary by product and retailer

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Killer Brownie Review

When I got an email asking if I wanted to get a sample of Killer Brownie, I did not hesitate to say yes!  

I received samples of Cookie Dough Brownie + Cookie with Caramel and Triple Chocolate Brownie with Caramel.

Each brownie is thick and rich and full of chocolate chips and caramel.  They were cut up into 4 servings so it's shareable.  Just looking at them I knew I was in for a treat.

Talk about indulgent!  It was decadence in every bite!

Unfortunately, as of this post, they do not ship to Hawaii nor are there locations that carry Killer Brownie in Hawaii, but they are working on it!

And I hope Hawaii shipping or availability happens soon, because the Killer Brownies really are some of the best brownies I've had in a long time!

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My First Time Flying Cathay Pacific

When we went to Hong Kong last year, we flew on Cathay Pacific.  I did a lot of research on what would be the best airline, and even though it was pricey compared to the popular budget airlines, I read a lot of great things about Cathay Pacific, and I was also able to convert AMEX points to Asia Miles.  

It was our first time flying on that airline, and I was quite impressed, despite a few minor negatives.

One was that our seats had been changed weeks after I booked our HND-HKG RT flights.  It wasn't a plane change or anything and I'm not sure why and how (if it was done by a human or computer), but I was able to revert them back to the original seats I had chosen upon booking.

Check-in was a breeze via the app, and although upon leaving HKG I accidentally tried to get bag tags at the premium cabin kiosk (I didn't realize there was a specific one for premium cabin and main cabin), the agent was super helpful.

They do have lower carry-on weight limits, and I thought they were going to weigh our carry-ons, but they did not. 

I was impressed how quickly they boarded a 300+ passenger plane in just 30 minutes.  Out of HND, boarding was exactly on time.  Out of HKG, boarding was slightly delayed.

The main cabin seating was just fine - I was comfortable, and the food was great.  Of course I loved the ice cream.  

They had seat-back entertainment, and one of the options was the ability to view the live cameras on the plane exterior, so you could see what you're flying over and even watch the landing (going to HKG, we had an aborted landing due to ATC, so watching the plane nearly touch down and have to pull back up was a little nerve-wracking).   

The only other negative was on the flight to HKG - one of the FAs was not very customer service-oriented, being rude to some passengers and even bypassed us when passing out blankets and the immigration cards.  I didn't realize he was passing out immigration cards until after we were near immigration, when I saw people filling out the pieces of paper that he was holding.  

I was actually surprised he nor anyone on the plane made no announcement about the cards, so we were rushing to fill them out at immigration since we had booked a car hire to take us to the hotel and didn't want to be late.

Despite that, the other FAs we encountered were great, and I simply loved just how efficient and high-tech their overall operations are.  

Out of HKG, they actually offer baggage drop at some of the train stations so you don't need to lug them all the way to the airport.

Would definitely fly them again!

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Mufasa: The Lion King Review

A recent movie night was spent watching Mufasa: The Lion King (currently streaming on Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV and Fandango at Home).

Film Synopsis
Exploring the unlikely rise of the beloved king of the Pride Lands, “Mufasa: The Lion King” enlists Rafiki to relay the legend of Mufasa to young lion cub Kiara, daughter of Simba and Nala, with Timon and Pumbaa lending their signature schtick. Told in flashbacks, the story introduces Mufasa as an orphaned cub, lost and alone until he meets a sympathetic lion named Taka—the heir to a royal bloodline. The chance meeting sets in motion an expansive journey of an extraordinary group of misfits searching for their destiny—their bonds will be tested as they work together to evade a threatening and deadly foe.

Review (with input from my youngest)
The movie focuses on young Mufasa and the story of how he became king of a land known as Milele. A place that symbolized abundance and safety - a place that everyone wanted to go to.

Mufasa the movie tells the story of how he was swept away by a raging flood, separating him from his family.  He ended up in a far away land where he met another cub named Taka. His mom, Eshe, accepted him into the pride, despite initial hesitancy from his dad, King Obasi, who didn't like the idea that Mufasa was not blood.

Despite King Obasi's disapproval, Mufasa grew up to be an integral part of that family, and showed more loyalty to Obasi and Eshe (Taka's mom), than Taka himself did. Mufasa's courage, commitment, and honor were just a few characteristics that resulted in him eventually becoming King of Milele, and it was Taka's betryal that resulted in him becoming known as "Scar."

The CGI really elevated this film to make the animals and the setting look as realistic as possible. It's truly amazing how technology can create such lifelike animals, adding depth of emotions, as we could really sense the animals' fear, elation, and sorrow.

There were moments of humor as well as many poignant interactions (a striking moment for me was when Mufasa was reunited with his blood mother, and discovered what happened to his father).

My son loved the song called "I Always Wanted A Brother," and his favorite part was when the white lions (the "Outsiders") were defeated.

My favorite line in the movie was one Eshe said to a Mufasa upon discovering him: "To be lost is to learn the way." It's a line that everyone can resonate with in life.

Mufasa: The Lion King is also available on DVD and Blu-ray will be on Disney+ beginning March 26.

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Moana 2 Review - Now Available on Digital

A digital code was received for review purposes.  

In November of last year, Moana 2 debuted with much anticipation, especially in Hawaiʻi, where much of the movie, such as the cultural traditions and customs, resonate with the locals, and of course stars Auliʻi Cravalho (as Moana) and Dwayne Johnson (as Maui) grew up in Hawaiʻi.

Moana 2 is now available on digital (to be released on 4K UHD, Blu-ray and DVD March 18), and below is our review, with input from one of my kids (spoiler alert!). 

Synopsis: Moana 2 reunites Moana and Maui three years later for an expansive new voyage alongside a crew of unlikely seafarers.  After receiving an unexpected call from her wayfinding ancestors, Moana must journey to the far seas of Oceania and into dangerous, long-lost waters for an adventure unlike anything she’s ever faced.

Review:
While out exploring an island, Moana, Hei Hei, and Pua stumbled upon an artifact, signifying human life on other islands. Excited, Moana returns home to tell her parents. Later than night, members from the village participate in a kava drinking ceremony, during which Moana has a vision and was given a mission to find the island of Motefetū. 

She soon sets off with a trusted crew, gets diverted to help other islanders, and stumbles upon Maui.  Reunited with Maui, Moana and the crew all set out to find Motefetū. 

On their journey, they face numerous environmental and otherworldly challenges, but they work as a team to complete their mission, which culminates in some "chicken skin" moments when other wayfarers find their way to Motefetū.  

Don't miss the post-credits scene, which sets up a third movie!

My son really enjoyed when the "coconut dudes," the Kakamora, were introduced.  He also loved the special appearance by Tamatoa. 

His favorite parts of the movie were when Moana talked to her ancestors, how she teamed up with the Kakamora, and when people from other islands appeared at Motefetū.

The lessons of perseverance and not giving up despite failures or getting off track were very important, and also of great importance were the lessons of respecting our ancestors and elders, and protecting our resources and passing on knowledge for future generations.

Moana 2 was full of adventure and humor, and is an empowering and inspirational movie.  It was wonderful to see Polynesian culture represented, as well as cultural aspects such as wayfinding, kava, dance, storytelling, and chanting.  I was very impressed with how the animation really captured the significance of the ocean, and how it connects us all.  

 

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iLive 45-inch HD Soundbar Review

Disclosure: Complimentary product was received for review purposes

My family has movie night frequently, and we're always listening to music in the house. Thanks to the iLive - 45-inch Bluetooth Soundbar with Wireless Subwoofer and Satellite Speakers (ARV $159), our movie-watching and music-listening experiences are elevated!

Set up was a breeze (my husband set it up), and in no time we had surround sound that really made a difference on movie nights and music listening parties.

Here is his detailed review regarding the set-up:

The iLive 45” HD Soundbar is the first soundbar I’ve owned and I’m very happy with it. The soundbar is 45” long with the detachable satellite speakers attached and 32” on its own. It comes with a subwoofer, a wall mount kit, remote control, power adapters for both the soundbar and the subwoofer, charging cables if you keep the satellite speakers detached, and an optical audio cable.Setup was very simple. I plugged in the soundbar and attached the two satellite speakers. Since my TV doesn’t have enough HDMI ports, I used the provided optical audio cable to connect the soundbar to the TV. I plugged the subwoofer into an outlet across the room. I turned everything on and was ready to test it out.

The soundbar was a huge upgrade over my TV speakers. The sound is full and the bass from the subwoofer is more than adequate. The remote lets you choose amongst music, movie, or dialog and they do make a difference in the listening experience. You can also choose amongst the different input options, control the volume, and adjust the bass and treble with the remote.

The Bluetooth is simple to connect with my phone and easy to switch between other sources if someone else wants to play their music. There is an auxiliary port on the soundbar if your music device isn’t Bluetooth capable and you need to connect the old school way.

I do have a few issues with the iLive 45” Sound Bar with Satellite Speakers & Wireless Subwoofer. First of all, the optical audio cable that comes with is only 3’ 4” long. I needed to buy a longer one to be able to run it from my wall mounted TV and through the wall to the soundbar. Secondly, although there are volume, bass, and treble controls on the remote, there’s no visual indication of their levels. You just need to press each up or down and listen to determine the desired level of each. These issues are not dealbreakers.

Overall, the iLive 45” HD Soundbar is a great sound system, especially for the price. It’s easy to setup, has enough features for the average user and, most importantly, it sounds great!

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Review - The Banshees of Insherin

 Disclosure: A complimentary code was received for review purposes.

Synopsis
From director-writer Martin McDonagh (Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri) comes a unique film starring Colin Farrell and Brendan Gleeson. Although Pádraic (Farrell) and Colm (Gleeson) have been lifelong friends, they find themselves at an impasse when one abruptly ends their relationship, bringing alarming consequences for both of them.

The Banshees of Insherin has received critical acclaim since it's release, most recently garnering Oscar nominations for nine categories, including Best Picture and Best Actor.

It's a solemn, humorous, and authentic portrayal of life in a remote Ireland island of Insherin during the Irish Civil War in the 20s.  

There are no luxuries, as most residents live and work humbly day after day, and find themselves at the local pub night after night.  

Padraic and Colm, the best of friends, would head to the pub together every day, until one day, their ritual stopped.  Unbeknownst to Padraic, Colm decided he didn't want to be friends with him anymore, as he found him to be dull.  Colm preferred to focus on his music rather than listen to Padraic ramble daily.

Refusing to believe that Colm no longer liked him, even after Colm threatened to chop off his fingers if Padraic talked to him anymore, Padraic relentlessly tried to get back his old pal.

There were glimmers of hope and signs of the old camaraderie, but when Colm did the unthinkable, and chopped off a finger after Padraic talked to him, Padraic knew things were serious.

Padraic's pain at losing his best friend was palpable, and it was more so when he lost the most important living being in his life because of the actions of Colm.  Ultimately their irreparable relationship and inability to compromise caused suffering not only for themselves, but those around them, paralleling what wars do to innocent people.

The Banshees of Insherin is a very thought-provoking movie, and I felt so much empathy for the characters.  There were those who were looking for a better life beyond Insherin, those looking for love, and those simply looking for acceptance.  

The performances of the cast were incredible, and very deserving of all of the awards and accolades.  

The Baneshees of Insherin is available on digital platforms, as well as select theaters nationwide.

 

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Omakase Dinner with Cocktail Pairing at Bar Maze

I had a wonderful dinner at Bar Maze this past weekend.  If you aren't familiar, Bar Maze is a popular restaurant in the Kakaako area by Justin and Tom Park, the same owners as the award winning cocktail bar, Bar Leather Apron.

The omakase dinner course from Head Chef, Ki Chung, and Head Bartender, Justin Park, features a seasonal 5-course tasting menu with your choice of cocktail or non-alcoholic pairings. The cost of the meal is $175 per guest with additional supplement offerings.  It's a splurge, but I thought it was well worth the dining experience of our special occasion.

SEASONAL SNACK SET paired with sake, kiwi, stonefruit, yuzu, champagne

First course pairing: Shochu, vodka, pomegranate, bergamot, elderflower, citrus bubbles

First course: hamachi, fennel, basil, winter citrus

Second course: scallop, seaweed dashi butter sauce, ogo, daikon, brioche

We added the kaluga hybrid caviar supplement. 

Third course: duck breast, buffalo carrot sauce, cauliflower

Third course pairing of hibiki harmony, maple, vanilla, hojicha, chocolate & vanilla bitters 

or goldeneye, pinot noir 2019

Bite sized donut topped with caviar

Seasonal shave ice

campari-rose water, lychee yogurt, raspberry, cocoa nib meringue, lemon curd, mint

Petit four - bourbon chocolate truffle

Bar Maze

604 Ala Moana Blvd. 

Honolulu, HI 

Reservations available through Resy

   

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Hawai`i's Community Cookbook Review

I have a small collection of local cookbooks, so I was thrilled when Hawai`i's Community Cookbook was published.  

This collection of over 600 recipes from cookbooks made through churches, schools, and other organizations offers a glimpse of our food culture in years past, with classic recipes and even replicas of old ads!

It was so nostalgic to see recipes such as guisantes and chicken hekka - many dishes that I've had as a child, but haven't had in years.  

Then there were the recipes that were very familiar since I either eat or make the foods regularly, such as mochiko chicken or Korean-style fried rice.

I loved the authenticity of the recipes and how some had a story behind it or helpful tips.  You'll even finda recipe written in pidgin!

Locals will find so many favorites or discover new ones, such as Teriyaki Short Ribs, Steamed Opakapaka with Lemon Soy Sauce, and Guava Cream Cheesecake.

Of course the first recipe I tried was one for sweets - Leona's Disappearing Mochiko Chocolate Chip Cookies.

They were a hit!  It had a nice crispness to it and my kids ate them up!

I have so many other recipes earmarked that I'm ready to try.

Hawai`i's Community Cookbook is perfect for your cookbook collection or would make a great gift for someone who is missing the islands.  

 

You may order Hawai`i's Community Cookbook online at Mutual Publishing.

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