Writer’s Block
Catching up with Kaui Heart Hemmings
The Descendants generated early buzz for movie awards season not only because it showed George Clooney in pretty much the only role in which he can be described as “befuddled,” but also because it showed a very different side of the Aloha State than normally depicted on the silver screen.
That unique—and very specific—p.o.v. is thanks to writer Kaui Hart Hemmings, the author of the book on which the movie was based. On the heels of the movie’s success—it won the Oscar for Best Adapted Screenplay—Hemmings was asked to be the inaugural artist for Waikiki Beach Marriott Resort & Spa’s Guest Artist Program.
A fan of Waikiki to say the least, we caught up with Hemmings for a quick Q & A session, afterward, the famous author signed autographs and posed for pictures with her fans, showing off her own aloha spirit.
WHAT BRINGS YOU TO WAIKIKI?
Usually, what brings me to Waikiki is the surf. We take the kids to the break across from the zoo where you can walk out.
ANY REGULAR STOPS YOU LIKE TO VISIT?
I love the Royal Hawaiian Hotel. It’s so beautiful, stately and classic. The restaurant Azure [located within the Royal Hawaiian Hotel] is one of my favorites. Nobu [at the Waikiki Parc Hotel] is also on my list of choice eateries.
DO YOU RECALL SPENDING TIME IN WAIKIKI AS A CHILD?
Another fond memory of Waikiki is paddling canoes—it’s where my dad taught me how to steer.”
