Posted on: Tuesday, September 10, 2002
TIP-OFF
Hawai'i firefighters honored in documentary
By Wayne Harada
Advertiser Entertainment Writer
Edgy Lee's "A Tribute to Hawai'i's Fire Fighters" will receive its public premiere from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Saturday at the city's "Sunset on the Beach" event at Queen's Surf Beach.
It then will be televised from 7 to 8 p.m. Sept. 19 via KHON-Fox 2.
"The story of Hawai'i's firefighters is a fascinating history that reflects a rich cultural heritage unique in comparison to all other fire departments worldwide," said Lee, who wrote and directed the documentary through her FilmWorks Pacific company. "Typically when we begin research, we have a feel for what the story is about, but just as we discovered when delving into the paniolo story, we uncovered a magnificent history, way beyond our expectations, and everyone who worked on this film has had a particularly rewarding experience."
The events of 9/11 brought new focus and recognition to the heroic men and women whose lives are dedicated to saving others. For the public, the notion of firefighters merely cooking, playing volleyball and responding to a fire call has changed immensely.
The special reveals some fascinating elements. For example: During the attack on Pearl Harbor on Dec. 7, 1941, firefighters raced to the scene. Three Honolulu firefighters were killed and six wounded by enemy fire. They were awarded Purple Hearts — the only civilians so honored in the country's history.
"When we recall events like these, it is apparent that Hawai'i's firefighters have chosen a dangerous, life-threatening occupation. Their deeper motivations are based on a desire to serve the public and the community," Lee said.
Lee repeatedly has won critical acclaim for her work. Her documentary, "Papakolea: Story of Hawaiian Land," about the Hawaiian homestead near Punchbowl, received the Corporation for Public Broadcasting Silver Award and numerous international awards. "Paniolo O Hawai'i" also received awards from the Chicago International Film Festival for documentary film direction and for individual achievement in writing for co-writers Lee and Paul Berry.
Her latest film, "Waikiki: In the Wake of Dreams" received Best Cinematography and Best Editing awards from the New York International Independent Film & Video Festival 2002.
