June 16 marks the return of this year’s Maui Film Festival at the Wailea Resort and the Maui Arts & Cultural Center in Kahului.  This year’s 10th annual gathering features unique film screenings as well as social events to keep its guests entertained.  Attendees of the film festival will be treated to screenings on the Celestial Cinema’s 50 foot outdoor movie screen in the comfort of the cool summer weather and the stars of the Hawaii night shining right above them.  The event is even doing its part to stay environmentally conscious, by utilizing methods such as applying solar energy to power the cinema.  With more than 35 previews of documentaries and short films, the event is sure to have something for everyone touring Maui.  Fans will surely appreciate an appearance from young actor Zac Efron this year, as he is awarded the event’s 2010 Maui Film Festival Shining Star Award.  Following the festival’s theme, “Trust the Future,” the event’s producers felt Efron’s obvious talent will undoubtedly pave the way for a promising acting career.  Tim Burton, Clint Eastwood, and Claire Danes are just a handful of other celebrities who have also been presented this prestigious award.  

The event will also end with the traditional Taste of Wailea gala for those on a trip to Hawaii. The celebration, which showcases the culinary talents of native Hawaiian chefs, treats guests to a night of exciting cuisine and palatable wine pairings.  The event will also feature their annual Taste of Chocolate and the Starry Night Moon Dance.  

Movie fans from all over the world await the Maui Film Festival and the Taste of Wailea.  If you’re planning to tour Maui in June, make a visit to the festival!