FESTIVAL Titles from KIDS FIRST!

The story follows a young boy trying to find connections and belonging through a time where it's difficult for him to have a sense of belonging. He goes on a long journey where he is bullied and made fun of because of his appearances. Through his journey, he discovers himself and his true identity.

This is definitely my favorite film of the week! Its perfect for KIDS FIRST!I like the message of the film. It is about self-discovery and identity and has a huge connection to today's societal issues. The animation is outstanding; it reminds me of classic animated film classics like The Iron Giant or Who Framed Roger Rabbit. The background music is great and fits each scene, helping convey messages through music and emotions. There are also visual effects that convey messages associated with identity and self-discovery. The director adapted this film from a picture book and it is really extraordinary. It is self-funded and produced independently. My favorite scene is at the beginning - I wasn't expecting the background music and character to start the story right away, which was great.

The film's message is that not everyone is the same; being different is unique and desirable.

My Partner tells a story of how two groups of high school boys are drawn into conflict defending their cliques and cultures, Hawaiian and Filipino and, through an interesting turn of events, work out their issues and develop a close bond. Assigned to work together as partners on a class project, two of the high schoolers actually become attracted to each other.

The locations are beautiful; Hawaii is shown throughout the film in all its splendor. The actors play their parts well and, yet their stereotypes (jocks and nerds) are not overplayed. The jocks are athletic 'hunks' and the nerds are 'top of the class' smart, but each character is authentic and reveals their endearing humanity as they grew into maturity. Also, the storyline includes many aspects of Hawaiian culture and language that is rarely seen in films. There is also a land ethic theme that adds value to the story. The film does lag a bit and, as a result, feels overly long.

High school movies have a familiar flare that kids can relate to - from the 'hot' teacher gags, to the secrets told at the lockers, how the bully scenes are resolved and how 'enemies' become buddies. Teens would enjoy the things that adults like, as stated above -- the beautiful locations, environmental themes, and the actors. They might also be curious to watch how a same gender attraction expresses itself in a positive way and in a supportive society. The filmmakers play up the physical beauty of Pili (Kaipo Dudoit), using slow motion, and this could make some youngsters uncomfortable, but it feels appropriate to the story line. The humanistic beauty of Pili's and Edmar (Jayron Munoz)'s relationship sets a good example for community and love between same sex individuals.

My Partner is a well-structured film; the story flows at a steady pace; even if it feels a bit slow towards the end. The scene is a modern one, set in rural Hawaii. The Filipino tradition of arranged marriage is introduced, as is one of the Hawaiian agriculture rituals. The film's character development is excellent, and the back-story for the tree main characters, Pili, Edmar and Zach covers three different cultures and economic classes. This draws in viewers who are fascinated with other cultures and attractive people in a new way. Subtitles need to be read when the actors are speaking in various Hawaiian languages. I love that the closed captions include which Hawaiian language is being spoken. Sadly, swear words like 'mofo' and 'bitch' are used and the F-word flows like butter, but otherwise the language is suitable for high schoolers.

Unfortunately the film has an excessive amount of profanity. The F-word seems to flow out of the mouths of these young teen boys and G-damnit is heard once. The attraction that develops slowly throughout the film shows some touch and a kiss between two boys. It is implied that Pili and Edmar sleep together in a tent. They are clothed in their jeans and there is no nudity, but the music has suggestive lyrics of attraction and desire.

The main actors include seven people, but most of the drama is acted by Kaipo Dudoit as Pili, Jayron Munoz as Edmar and Dan Francis Rodriques as Zach. Sometimes what they seem to be doing is 'horse-play' but sometimes the drama is acted out in fights. No blood is spilled and the ganging up on each other is well directed and realistic. The music design is awesome. Hawaiian tunes are used as source music when musicians appear on-screen during the family luau. Modern reggae and guitar discretely seam these scenes together. Some sensual music with lyrics reinforces the attraction that is occurring between Pili and Edmar.

My Partner is a great expose on the cross-cultural aspects of Asian-Pacific cultures in a high school setting. The fresh viewpoint from teenagers on environmental exploitation and hierarchy prejudice - rich vs. poor - is educational and encouraging to see. The budding friendship between two of the boys pushes cultural norms in a tasteful way. The music includes Hawaiian, reggae, and rhythm and blues styles. This film seems good for teens, even if it uses foul language and a same gender attraction. The cultural positives along with, what I would call a realistic 2024 modern life, make it feel like a valuable film. The gang related fights end as the whole group of boys becomes friends in defense of the planet's health. The music is sensual and lovely, and the expose of the authenticity of the characters is heartwarming.

The film's message is that barriers between cultures can be broken down through dialog and forgiveness. It's okay to love who you love - period.

I give My Partner 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for adults, due to the profanity as described above. It is available on digital platforms beginning October 4, 2024.