During my time in The United States Marine Corps, I had experienced life changing moments both good and bad. These events have an effect on who I am as a person today. Although those days in the Marines have past they are not gone.
When Paul originally told me about the idea which formed into Empty Streets, my thought was "who cares." It sounded great, but the idea that someone else wanted to share one of the hardest times of my life with the rest of the world scared me because I didn't think my life could be used to help others. As this idea became a reality, I found myself humbled.Dredging up memories and feelings I wanted to forget helped pave the way for the desire to see this film completed which would in essence help me move on in life. After being given the honor of co-writing, my closure is nearing completion.
Everyone that contributed to this film has had made many personal sacrifices. These sacrifices have made this a part of us all. During the time we helped to build this film as friends, we became family. Paul, Kendyce, Kevin, Tony, Des, I love you all and thank you.
— Ely Kalilikane (Co-Writer, Producer, Technical Consultant)
San Francisco — Ely and Paul heading back from the pizza place.
4 comments:
Hi Ely,
I just saw your story on the news. It was the 10pm news, so I had already missed the UH screening tonight (10/5), but congratulations and good luck on the work!
Jenn Lo
(MoHS)
Thanks Jenn,
We are working on more screenings and hopefully you get to see it soon.
Ely
Ely,
It was great to see you after all these years. Thank you for sharing your story with the world. As a long-time film buff, I can appreciate all the work that went into the film and enjoyed it a great deal.
I'm sure that your film will help many veterans across the country come to terms with their own struggles with PTSD. We really need to take better care of our combat veterans. From the Walter Reed Hospital debacle, to troops initially not being able to get a measly 3.5% pay raise, it's a disgrace how the government continues to screw the men and women who are willing to give so much for their country.
I wish you all the best with this film and your future projects. Happy Holidays!
Peace,
Ira Wong
iraw@hawaii.edu
P.S. - I always remembered the story you told me about how you played the trumpet because of your father. It's a touching story and I'll never forget it.
Aloha Ely - I saw this and kinda funny... but did you go to Kamehameha many MANY years ago?
If so, I used to go to school with you back in the day (Elementary). Anywhos... I stumbled onto this and thought I would say hello.
Keala
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