I must say I saw this film with a group of friends here in Hawaii and the theatre was jam packed. This movie shows both the good and bad sides of Hawaii. Where movies like "Aloha Summer" and "North Shore" failed "Beyond Paradise" succeeds. The story focuses on California native Mark[Roy Newton] as he moves to Hawaii to live with his mother. He is befriended by three local students named Zulu[Kalani], Ronnie Boy[Lorenzo Callender] and Keao[Daryl Bonilla]. We then are taken on a journey of both beauty and violence and what a journey it is. Aside from one flaw[which I'll talk about a little later]I thought this movie was excellent. The cinematography is superb and the story is brutal but utterly endearing and touching. But the thing that stands out most is the acting. This film showcases some young talented actors. I'd take these actors over any from the "Dawson Creek", "Scream" crowd. Newton is okay but shows little depth and even lesser growth as Mark[this being the flaw I mentioned earlier]. Being on the screen with talented actors as he was only made his so-so performance stand out more[which in his case was not a good thing]. Kalani is a charmer as the storytelling Zulu[not a bad surfer as well]. Callender delivers a solid yet heartbreaking performance as Ronnie. He's got talent. Bonilla distinguishes himself as Keao. He is a scene stealer. This guy is something special to watch as the crowd just ate him up. Priscilla Basque[Lehua], Troy Ignacio[Aku] and Eric MacArthur[Jason]do good work in supporting roles. I seriously recommend that people see this film for just the great acting alone as this movie delivers 9/10.