Chaperone is an unsettling drama set in the sunny of Hilo, Hawaii. This indie film, with an impressive 8.4 IMDb rating from over a thousand viewers, has been a hit at festivals like Mill Valley and local screenings at Hilo’s Palace Theater.
The story follows Misha, a 29-year-old who feels stuck, judged by friends and family for her lack of drive. When she meets Jake, an 18-year-old high school athlete who thinks she’s a fellow student, their connection sparks something risky. Instead of a light romance, the film explores the dangerous line between connection and crossing boundaries. The dialogue feels real, like eavesdropping on actual conversations, pulling you into Misha’s world.
Mitzi Akaha shines as Misha, bringing a quiet, desperate energy that’s hard to shake. Her face shows both fear and longing, making you feel for her even as she makes bad choices. Laird Akeo’s Jake is full of youthful energy, totally believable as a teen caught up in something he doesn’t fully understand.
What makes Chaperone different is how it handles a tricky topic. It doesn’t glamorize the age gap between Misha and Jake but shows the creepy reality of grooming and unbalanced relationships. Misha isn’t a cartoonish villain; she’s a lost soul scared to move forward. Jake stays a believable teen—impulsive and hopeful—making the situation feel truly wrong.
The tension builds steadily, with bits of humor to ease the stress without breaking it. The way the story ties together makes you want to watch it again to catch the clues. Every moment feels planned, leading to an ending that hits hard. The film isn’t perfect. It’s hard to believe no one questions Misha’s age for so long, and some side characters could use more depth. But these small issues don’t ruin the experience.
Chaperone is a look at what happens when you’re stuck in life and make risky choices. It’s a must-see for anyone who’s ever felt lost, showing flawed people without letting them off easy. Highly recommended.
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