WAILEA, Maui » Emma Roberts seems nothing like the spoiled, entitled movie star she played in the creepy FX series "American Horror Story: Coven."

Talking to reporters Thursday night at the Maui Film Festival, the 23-year-old actress appeared down to earth and instantly put those around her at ease with her peppy personality and sweet demeanor. She is at the festival with fiance and "Coven" co-star Evan Peters, who is one of the mutant stars of "X-Men:Days of Future Past."

Roberts was named the Maui festival’s 2014 Shining Star for being "a film artist who dares to dream big dreams and delivers brilliantly charismatic and revelatory performances every time that opportunity knocks."

For the award presentation at the Grand Wailea’s Seaside Cinema venue, she wore a vibrant red cocktail dress by DSquared2 and white pumps, a footwear choice she would come to regret as the entire event was held on the lawn.

At one point the fashion-savvy Roberts asked Peters for some advice on a familiar island accessory — lei or no lei?

"You should definitely wear the lei," he replied.

While excited to be receiving the award, the actress was just as thrilled about the surroundings and atmosphere.

"I need to come to Maui more! The compliments I’ve been getting are just crazy," Roberts said. "I know where to come if I’m ever feeling down."