Wishful Thinking

Even when everything burns, our bonds of aloha survive.

After the devastating Maui fires, a woman risks everything to find the man who taught her connection. A testament to selfless community heroism and the enduring power of aloha and memory amidst unimaginable loss.

Our Story

Aloha friends, ʻohana, and partners in impact. Join us in bringing Wishful Thinking to life. A powerful Maui based narrative that transforms profound grief into a celebration of unwavering aloha and heroic community spirit.

Inspired by Maui’s darkest hours, this film shares the real-life loss of Alfie, a dear friend of Lahaina and our writer/director, Kim Mi Ly. Yet, in our story, Alfie survives. This fictional “what if” journey offers a powerful way to process loss, while profoundly honoring the countless unsung heroes who selflessly stepped up to support those in need. Our protagonist, Kailea, embodies this spirit, undertaking a perilous journey across the Molokaʻi Channel to reach her elderly friend. A testament to the enduring bonds of human connection.

Cultural Impact & Community Empowerment:

Wishful Thinking is a profound love letter to Lahaina. Our commitment extends beyond storytelling: we actively uplift the community by prioritizing local crew, collaborating with Hawaiʻi-based actors and non-actors, and featuring real community heroes like those from the S-Turns support hub. This ensures the narrative authentically reflects and empowers the voices of those it honors, championing the exceptional individuals who gave their all to support those who lost everything.

Synopsis

In the wake of the devastating 2023 Maui fires, Wishful Thinking tells a poignant and gripping tale of connection, loss, and resilience. Kailea, a spirited woman from Oahu, recalls an unforgettable journey she shared years ago with Alfie, an eccentric widower living in Maui. What begins as a chance encounter transforms into a life-changing adventure as the two strangers bond over shared grief, breathtaking landscapes, and moments of daring courage.

Years later, as flames ravage Lahaina, Kailea discovers Alfie is among those trapped in the inferno. Against all odds, she returns to Maui, bringing supplies and hope to the victims. The story builds to a harrowing yet heartwarming reunion that illuminates the enduring power of human connection.

The feature expands on the emotional core of the short film by deepening character arcs, intertwining other heroic stories, exploring community impact, and elevating the scale with cinematic sequences across Hawai’i.

Director’s Vision

Kim Ly envisions “Wishful Thinking” as a deeply personal and visually stunning film, drawing inspiration from true events and the resilience of the Maui community. The film will blend intimate character studies with sweeping landscapes, capturing the raw emotion and beauty of the island. With a focus on authenticity and cultural sensitivity, Ly aims to create a cinematic experience that honors the stories of those affected by the fires and offers a message of hope and healing.

Character Introductions

Kyla Hee as Kailea

Kyla is a talented multi-ethnic actor, with Chinese, Hawaiian, and Caucasian heritage. Miss Teen USA, she also played a lead role in Psychosis and made notable appearances in numerous commercials and films. Her authentic portrayal will bring a powerful blend of resilience and aloha to the screen, making her the perfect choice to lead this heartfelt story.

Robert Angelo as Alfie

With a distinguished thirty years career and a remarkable ability to convey warmth and wisdom, Robert is ideally suited to portray Alfie. His nuanced performance will capture the gentle spirit of the 84-year-old man whose unexpected bond with Kailea forms the emotional core of our narrative.

Ta’imua as Noa

Ta’imua is an emerging talent in Hawai’i. His local roots bring authenticity and depth to his roles. Credits include notable appearances in Truth Be Told and Doctor Odyssey, as well as critically acclaim short film like, Dasher, showcasing his versatile acting experience. His portrayal of Kailea’s boyfriend Noa, adds a vibrant and authentic presence to our cast.

KIM LY

WRITER / DIRECTOR

Kim Ly is a seasoned professional with over 15 years experience in the film and television industry. She has created, produced, and directed a variety show celebrating Asian artists, earning a Telly Awards and achieved the #1 spot on Nielsen Ratings across multiple demographics. In addition to her extensive work behind the scenes in film production, she has written and directed four short films, three entirely made in Hawai’i; collaborating with local talent and crews to bring meaningful stories to the screen. With a strong foundation in both productions and post-production, Kim is ready to make a feature. She has a keen ability to navigate the complexities of filmmaking, seamlessly transforming scripts into visually compelling narratives.

Ly’s latest project, Wishful Thinking, is one of her most personal works, inspired by the loss of her friend Alfred, who tragically passed away in the Maui fires. Selected for the ‘Ohina Labs mentorship program, the film reimagines a reality where Alfie survives and Kailea visits him annually on his birthday—an alternate reality shaped by Ly’s own regrets. In truth, she was unable to fulfill Alfie’s invitation to his 80th birthday due to life’s obstacles and the Covid pandemic, leaving their last meeting as a single, cherished memory. The film’s title, Wishful Thinking, reflects her way of processing grief and longing, offering a poignant tribute to both Alfie and the many lives impacted by the tragedy.

Ranked number-one on the Nielsen Ratings across multiple demographics, beating out “Inside Edition.”

Selected for the Ohina Labs Mentorship

Cast and Crew 100% made in Hawaii

Vince Keala Lucero

Producer/DP

Award winning Native Hawaiian filmmaker Vince Keala Lucero specializes in indigenous storytelling. His work is recognized for its artistic integrity and cultural depth. As producer and IATSE union camera operator, he expertly bridges Hollywood productions with culturally significant Hawaiian projects.
Since 2008, Lucero has produced broadcast content for Kamehameha Schools and Hōkūleʻa. And the Merrie Monarch Hula Festival since 2012. His work on indie films Waikiki, Ho’omau, and The Wind & The Reckoning demonstrates his commitment to authentic cultural representation.
Notable credits include:
Executive Producer of the Merrie Monarch Festival
Water Unit A Camera Op for FOX’s Rescue HI Surf
2nd Unit Camera Op for Chief of War, Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle, Snatched, Mike & Dave Need Wedding Dates
Drone Op for Snowden
Camera Op for Hawai’i Five-0, Magnum PI, Doogie Kamealoha
His community commitment includes co-producing the Maui Ola Telethon, raising $1.4M 11 days after the Maui fires, and Jam4Maunakea, the world’s first virtual kanikapila featuring Jason Momoa.

Mike Anderson

Co-Producer/Marine Coordinator

Mike Anderson, a proud Lahaina resident, is a highly experienced filmmaker renowned for his exceptional expertise in aquatic cinematography and marine coordination.
With a career spanning since 2009, Mike has made significant contributions to both feature films and TV. His leadership roles include:
Picture Boat Coordinator: Piranha 3D
Marine Coordinator: Drowned, Highway to Havasu
Transportation Coordinator: Hot Water
More recently, Mike’s filmography showcases his versatility and invaluable skills as a Boat Handler for major productions such as the Live Action Moana 2026, Rescue HI Surf, Lilo and Stitch, and The White Lotus. His extensive crew credits further include work on popular series like NCIS Hawaii, Magnum PI, Murder Mystery 2, Hidden Gyms, Deadly Yoga Retreat, and Temptation Island.
Mike, alongside his wife Shawn and their four children, found their home in Maui. In the wake of the devastating fires, they emerged as dedicated leaders at the S-Turns support hub, which became one of the longest-running and most vital relief centers. Even today, the hub continues its crucial work, now relocated to the Veteran’s Center in Lahaina.

Lan Deal

Co-Producer/Casting

Lan Deal is a Vietnamese Italian filmmaker and casting professional from Hawai‘i with over 20 years of film industry experience. She began her career as Grace Park’s stand-in for Hawai‘i Five-0’s first season, then joined the Extra Casting Department for seasons two through four. After four years in Seattle, Lan returned to Hawai‘i, contributing to the show’s final two seasons in Extra Casting.
Her industry experience inspired her to write, produce, and direct a short film. This deeply personal project explores the story of her half-brother, born in Vietnam and abandoned during the Vietnam War—an experience shared by thousands of Amerasian children left with lifelong questions of identity.
Lan’s film delves into themes of identity, abandonment, love, family, friendship, vulnerability, and sacrifice. Though rooted in this specific history, its story universally resonates with anyone feeling unwanted, forgotten, or searching for their place.
Passionate about film’s power to illuminate personal stories and connect cultures, Lan, a local Hawai‘i filmmaker, aims to create meaningful work while supporting and inspiring others.

“This film represents more than just a story. It’s our way of honoring those we’ve lost while celebrating the connections that sustain us. Our goal is to infuse the spirit of aloha and the resilience of our community into every frame. Mahalo for your support.”- Kealaokalani Lucero

Hawaiʻi International Film Festival

Wishful Thinking has been accepted for fiscal sponsorship by HIFF. A vote of confidence in its cultural and artistic value. This partnership validates our commitment to authentic storytelling.

Maui Film Community

The Maui Film office believes in the power of story to change lives, and the importance of regional independent filmmaking in the build of meaningful industry. The production of Wishful Thinking connects makers from many islands and provides rich opportunities for local residents to get in the game…many for their first time on set. Maui County stands firmly behind their efforts.

Brian Kohne

Maui Film Commisioner

ʻOHINA

ʻOHINA is dedicated to fostering authentic storytelling that strengthens Hawai‘i’s film community. We honor the cultural sensitivities of our islands by guiding projects toward the right support for integrity and authenticity.

Wishful Thinking embodies both the responsibility and resilience of Hawai‘i, and ʻOHINA is proud to stand behind this work.

Be Part of Our Journey

Your support is vital to bringing Wishful Thinking to life. This film is more than a story; it’s a testament to the power of community, a heartfelt connection to memory, and a celebration of Hawaiʻi’s unique voice. Join us in uplifting local talent and sharing the spirit of aloha with the world.

Together, we can make something truly beautiful.

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Every dollar directly fuels our production, turning this inspiring vision into a cinematic reality.

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Help us reach a wider audience of friends, family, and film lovers who believe in impactful storytelling.

Mahalo nui loa for believing in this story and in us.

— Kim Mi Ly, Vince Keala Lucero & Mike Anderson
The Wishful Thinking Team.

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