Aloha Summer (1988)
A sun-soaked coming-of-age story set in 1960s Hawaii, where six teenagers from different worlds discover friendship, love, and themselves.
Aloha Summer - Movie Information
- Release Year: 1988
- Directed by: Tommy Lee Wallace
- Type: Movie
- Genres: Comedy, Drama
- Age Rating (US): PG
- Runtime: 1h 38m
- Original Language: English
- Spoken Languages: English
- Release Date (Theatrical): February 26, 1988 (United States - PG)
- Production Companies: Hanauma Bay
- Production Countries: United States of America
Aloha Summer - Plot
It's the 60s and a bunch of crazy teenagers meet in the beautiful island of Hawaii during their summer holidays. Although they come from different backgrounds, they hang out together and shake up the island! They surf, dance, drink, fight and fall in love. As the summer approaches its end, they find themselves inseparable, friends for a lifetime...
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Aloha Summer - Cast & Crew
Director(s)
- Tommy Lee Wallace
Main Cast
- Chris Makepeace
- Yuji Okumoto
- Don Michael Paul
- Andy Bumatai
- Warren Fabro
- Scott Nakagawa
- Sho Kosugi
- Ric Mancini
- Robert Ito
- Tia Carrere
Writers
- Mike Greco
- Bob Benedetto
Producers
- Mike Greco
Aloha Summer - FAQs
What is Aloha Summer about?
Aloha Summer follows six teenagers from different backgrounds who cross paths in Hawaii during the 1960s. Over one unforgettable summer, they surf, fall in love, and navigate friendship across cultural divides, ultimately forming bonds that will last a lifetime. It's a warm, nostalgic coming-of-age story set against stunning Hawaiian scenery.
Is Aloha Summer based on a true story?
Aloha Summer is not based on a specific true story. It's an original screenplay by Mike Greco and Bob Benedetto, though it draws on the real cultural landscape of 1960s Hawaii, capturing the era's spirit of cross-cultural connection, surf culture, and youthful freedom with an authentic sense of place and time.
Does Aloha Summer explore cultural tensions between characters?
Yes, cultural tension is central to the film. The group includes Japanese-American, Native Hawaiian, Italian-American, and white mainland characters, and their friendships are tested by prejudice and misunderstanding. The story uses these conflicts to show how shared experiences — surfing, music, first love — can bridge even deep cultural divides.
Where can I watch Aloha Summer?
Streaming availability for Aloha Summer varies by region and platform. Your best bet is to check JustWatch, which tracks current streaming, rental, and purchase options across all major services so you can find the most up-to-date viewing options available in your area.
Who are the main actors in Aloha Summer?
The cast features Chris Makepeace, Yuji Okumoto, Don Michael Paul, Andy Bumatai, Warren Fabro, and Scott Nakagawa as the core group of friends. Sho Kosugi, Robert Ito, and Ric Mancini round out the supporting cast, with a very early appearance from Tia Carrere in one of her first screen roles.
What is the age rating for Aloha Summer?
Aloha Summer is rated PG, making it a family-friendly watch suitable for most ages. The film deals with teenage romance, mild conflict, and coming-of-age themes, but keeps things light and wholesome — perfectly in line with the breezy, sun-soaked tone of a 1980s summer movie.
Is Aloha Summer worth watching for fans of 1980s teen films?
If you have a soft spot for 1980s coming-of-age films, Aloha Summer is a charming, underrated gem. It blends the nostalgic warmth of beach-party movies with genuine heart and multicultural storytelling that feels ahead of its time. The Hawaiian setting and period soundtrack add to its enduring appeal.
Where was Aloha Summer filmed?
Aloha Summer was filmed on location in Hawaii, with much of the production centered around the island's iconic beaches and coastal landscapes. The authentic Hawaiian setting is one of the film's greatest assets, giving it a vivid, sun-drenched atmosphere that perfectly captures the carefree spirit of a 1960s island summer.
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