KAHALA, Hawaii (Island News) -- A powerful new documentary made on Maui is making its world premiere at the Hawai‘i International Film Festival.

"Lāhainā Rising" tells the story of the wildfire’s devastation, and the community’s strength to rebuild.

The film takes viewers back to August 8, 2023, when deadly flames tore through historic Lāhainā. But the story told here isn’t just about tragedy, it’s about truth, resilience, and rediscovery.

Director Matty Schweitzer says the goal was never to focus on the devastation.

“We don’t want to focus on the devastation. That’s not why we did this. So many people know what happened, we want it to come across as hopeful.”

Producer Blake Rambel says the film is about honesty and healing.

“This is what happened, this is what we need, and

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