Nyong’o tops festival’s starry guest list

Film and fashion star Lupita Nyong’o is headlining the Maui Film Festival, which kicked off Wednesday.

Nyong’o, 31, who captured a best supporting actress Academy Award for her heart-wrenching role in "12 Years a Slave," will receive the festival’s Rainmaker Award on Saturday. The honor recognizes film artists "whose eclectic choices and charismatic performances encourage us all to expand our definition of what it means to be human."

She attended Wednesday’s opening reception at Capische? restaurant at the Hotel Wailea along with fellow honorees Shep Gordon, Joe Manganiello, Emma Roberts and Evan Rachel Wood.

It already has been a big week for Nyong’o, as she was a presenter at the Council of Fashion Designers of America’s annual fashion awards Monday in New York. She also appears on the verge of conquering the sci-fi universe following an announcement that she is joining the cast of J.J. Abrams’ "Star Wars: Episode VII," which is set for release in December 2015.

Roberts attended the reception with fiance and "American Horror Story:Coven" co-star Evan Peters, who is getting rave notices for his work as Peter/Quicksilver in "X-Men: Days of Future Past."

In a ceremony Thursday, Roberts was presented with the Shining Star Award. On Friday, Wood ("True Blood") will receive the Nova Award for her "original and seamless performances" and consistently infusing her characters "with insight, humanity and wisdom."

Manganiello, her "True Blood" co-star, will be presented the Triple Threat Award later in the evening for his role as a director, actor and producer.Manganiello was memorable as a supremely endowed male stripper in "Magic Mike" and is screening his new documentary about male dancers, "La Bare," at the festival.

Wednesday night also saw Maui entertainment impresario and restaurateur Gordon honored with the festival’s Maverick Award.

The Maui Film Festival, in its 15th year, has never had trouble attracting bright lights in filmmaking, who no doubt appreciate the event’s casual atmosphere amid the luxury of the Wailea Resort as well as founders Barry and Stella Rivers’ emphasis on films featuring "compassionate and transformative storytelling." Past honorees include Elizabeth Banks, Adrien Brody, Tim Burton, Jessica Chastain, Clint Eastwood, Zac Efron, Andrew Garfield, Jake Gyllenhaal and Woody Harrelson.

In addition to the presence of Hollywood luminaries, the event is noteworthy for its golf course and beach screening venues.

The festival runs through Sunday. For film times, venue information and ticket prices, go to www.mauifilmfestival.com.