In the Hawaiian worldview there are layers of meaning to every word, every action, every moment, and every thing. The word kala, for example, refers to both a fish as well as forgiveness.

Kala is the story of two estranged brothers who are brought together at the request of their dying father. When they reluctantly set out with a throw-net to catch a kala fish they endure mishaps, face unresolved feelings, revisit childhood memories and, ultimately, attempt to heal the deep hurt that drug addiction has brought to their family.