Pacific Rim
Bryan Silver
Kalani High School Teacher,
Head Robotics Adviser for Kalani Falcons Robotics Team
What is your official title/occupation? Kalani High School teacher, teaching engineering and CAD design for 2013, and head robotics adviser for the Kalani Falcons Robotics Team.
Where and with whom did you see the movie? Ward Stadium 16 in the Titan XC cinematic experience, with Zi Jun Lin, a Kalani High School senior and Kalani Falcons Robotics team member.
Overall, what did you think? We loved it: an action-packed giant robot movie battling giant alien monsters uniting the world to save humanity.
Without giving away the ending, what was one of your favorite scenes? From beginning to end it was awesome nonstop action, as the world was united in a common cause and “gracious professionalism” – it shows what wonders can be achieved when we all work together.
On a scale of one to four stars, what would you rate this film? We gave it ★★★ 1/2. The destruction of cities, aliens and robots felt real. Although not entirely unique, it combine lots of our favorite elements together from Godzilla-style knocking down cities to aliens bent on world domination and extinction of the human race. It does add a new sci-fi twist in robot operation.
Was the message/theme clear? A good old rock ’em, sock ’em robot vs. alien movie, which had the continuing message: We can only survive if we work together in all nations as Earthlings and not as individual countries.
Did it remind you of any other works of film? Yes, it showed elements from several films, from Godzilla, Transformers and Real Steal to the anime Gundam. Even with all these similarities, it added its own twist of sci-fi possibilities, which we felt was unique.
To whom would you recommend this movie? For the action-packed kid at heart who loves giant robots you control to go a few rounds with enormous aliens, all to save the world, and everyone takes some good lickins.
Did any of the actors stand out? As in any good film, we had several character personalities that drove the tension, drama, connection, so when they were in harm’s way, you felt for them.
Did the soundtrack contribute significantly to the film? The soundtrack was great in the Titan XC theatrical experience, in that you saw, heard and felt the movie. It built the drama and suspense keeping you on the edge of your seat.
Would you buy this movie when it comes out on DVD? Yes. I typically don’t buy films, as there is so much to choose from now days. But this one I would, as it was light and easy to watch, and I could pick up on any part of the film and enjoy.
What’s your favorite movie snack? Sour Patch Kids with popcorn and jalapeños.
On a different note, what’s new with you? We, as a robotics team, are gearing up for a fast-paced year planning tournaments to host and games to play from VEX, FIRST Robotics, LEGO, Underwater ROV, Botball, Real World Design Challenge, VEX IQ and FIRST Tech Challenge among the programs offered in Hawaii and supported by Friends of Hawaii Robotics. Check out the Friends of Hawaii Robotics website (friendsofhawaiirobotics.com) to find out more information.
One of our dreams currently being developed is a central robotics center to enhance and provide science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) experiences outside of schools that would provide greater opportunities for students of all ages to get involved in robotic competition. We are in the hunt for a space to house a facility of this type in the Honolulu area and hopefully develop a model that can be replicated throughout the state and across the country.
