Fan Casting Somewhere Over the Rainbow: The Braddah IZ Story

"Somewhere Over the Rainbow: The Braddah IZ Story" is a moving and inspiring biopic that captures the life, struggles, and transcendent legacy of Israel Kamakawiwoʻole—an artist whose music touched millions and a cultural icon who carried the spirit of Hawaii in every note. From his humble beginnings in Honolulu’s working-class neighborhoods to his rise as a beloved Hawaiian musician, the film delves into IZ’s unwavering dedication to his culture, his family, and his dream of sharing Hawaii’s story with the world. We follow his journey through the streets of Makaha, where he found his voice and a brotherhood in music with the Makaha Sons of Niʻihau, to the recording studio where his haunting medley of “Somewhere Over the Rainbow/What a Wonderful World” became a global sensation. But this isn’t just a story of fame—it’s a deeply personal exploration of a man grappling with the pressures of his growing success, his health struggles, and the weight of being a cultural ambassador for Hawaii. As IZ faces his battles, his music becomes a beacon of hope, resilience, and aloha, inspiring his people to stand proud of their heritage and bringing a message of unity and love to a fractured world.