Princess Ka'iulani (2009)

Movie about Princess Victoria Kawēkiu Kaʻiulani Lunalilo Kalaninuiahilapalapa Cleghorn (1875-1899) the heir to the throne of the Kingdom of Hawaii at the time that nation was absorbed into the United States. Princess Ka'iulani is a biopic more interested in 'the spirit' of Princess Ka'iulani as a national symbol, then as an exploration of her complex character, or being super faithful to facts. Rated PG it's an odd amalgam of things, coming of age story, fish out of water tale, there is a romance, a Disney-esque character arc of female empowerment, and towards the end hagiography of a national symbol with some standard bio-pic devices. I admire the idea that this film was made, more then I admire what it turned out to be. **1/2