Cultural Preservation and Romantic Complexity in “My Partner”: A Conversation with Keli’i Grace

Keli’i Grace, the Native Hawaiian filmmaker, is making waves with his feature directorial debut My Partner. It is a film that delicately blends the intricacies of cultural preservation with the complexities of first love. Set in Hawaii, My Partner stands out not only for its engaging story of two high school boys from different social worlds exploring romantic feelings but also for being the last film shot in Lahaina before the devastating fires. This production adds layers of personal and cultural significance for Grace. He considers the film a tribute to the land and people of Hawaii.

Keli’i Grace – Native Hawaiian Filmmaker

“As a Native Hawaiian filmmaker, I feel a deep responsibility to represent both the land where I come from and the people who make up our islands in all their rich cultural diversity,” Grace emphasizes. The significance of Lahaina, a town steeped in history and now ravaged by fire, only magnifies the importance of My Partner. For Grace, it wasn’t just about creating a love story—it was about crafting a respectful representation of Hawaii and its communities. “Knowing this was the last film made before the fire only confirmed for me that… I must treat each story with the respect and honor it rightfully deserves.”

The film’s cultural depth comes from its thoughtful portrayal of both Hawaiian and Filipino traditions. It stems from writer Lance Collins’ real-life experiences. Grace worked meticulously to ensure that this cultural blending was done authentically, especially with the use of both languages. “The challenge was ensuring that the languages were not only accurate but also used authentically in everyday interactions,” he shares. By collaborating with native speakers, Grace succeeded in grounding the film in genuine cultural experiences.

Grace’s filmmaking approach goes beyond technicalities—his “Pono Process” is a testament to his dedication to ethical storytelling. This method, which aligns with Aloha and Pono values, ensures that his productions are rooted in cultural respect and sustainability. “One aspect is using protocols such as meeting with key community members of a location to seek their cultural approval… before obtaining technical permissions to shoot there,” Grace explains. It’s an approach that echoes throughout his filmmaking ethos. Especially in the wake of Lahaina’s loss, where the film’s location now carries deeper meaning.

Working with Kaipo & Jayron

Working with two newcomers, Kaipo Dudoit and Jayron Muñoz, as the leads, was another significant step in Grace’s directorial journey. He recounts how their authenticity was key to the film’s emotional impact .”I approached directing in a gentle yet confident manner, while still allowing them to be their authentic selves. This helped showcase the genuine connection they developed both on and off screen.” Grace’s ability to create a comfortable set allowed for what he calls “real magic” to unfold. He makes the on-screen chemistry feel even more heartfelt.

Despite being asked to direct a film in the globally popular Boys’ Love (BL) genre, Grace admits he wasn’t initially familiar with it. Yet, he dove into research and soon found a way to make the film resonate with universal themes while maintaining its local Hawaiian essence. “I first make sure it’s Pono, then I focus on making it entertaining,” he says. This balance allowed him to handle sensitive cultural and social issues in a way that would both engage and educate viewers.

Environmental and Cultural Concerns

Beyond the romance, My Partner delves into deeper themes. Themes such as environmental and cultural concerns in Hawaii, including overfishing, a pressing issue that affects the island community. Grace’s intention with the film extends beyond entertainment. “I want people to understand that a love for a place doesn’t always mean you have to live there,” he says. His message is clear: respect the land, and it will return that respect. Through My Partner, Grace invites audiences to see beyond the romanticized depictions of Hawaii. To appreciate the real, lived experiences of its people and environment.

With My Partner, Keli’i Grace has crafted more than just a debut feature. He has created a film that is a love letter to Hawaii, its people, and its culture—one that thoughtfully explores the intersection of love, heritage, and responsibility. And as he continues to tell these important stories, Grace’s commitment to preserving and respecting the islands will undoubtedly shape the legacy of Hawaiian film-making for years to come.