Blending animation and live-action footage, “Rolling Down Like Pele” is an award-winning film that explores the world of traditional Hula and Chant. Lush oil paintings, watercolors, and pencil drawings illuminate sections of three Hawaiian dances in unique and surprising ways.

Juror comments: The soundtrack begins with the sound of water, and then the music of Hawaiʻi, then the percussive sounds that accompany hula, followed by the sounds of the ocean, wind, and fire – Nature in Hawaiʻi. Images of live-action traditional hula dancers are interspersed with painted hula dancers and the textures and colors of the natural environment of the Islands.

The film stays true to the Spirit of Hawaiʻi, and the sacred communication of hula. I give this film 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 18, plus adults. By Ann B., KIDS FIRST!