John Pierson had done almost everything in the independent film world — launching notable careers (including those of Spike Lee, Kevin Smith and Michael Moore), writing books, hosting a popular TV show. But he hadn't run an indie moviehouse. Never one to take the easy route, Pierson signed up to operate one of the world's most remote theaters, the 180 Meridian in Fiji, with the intent of spreading the gospel of good movies to the islanders. Filmmaker Steve James (Hoop Dreams) captured the Pierson family's trials and triumphs: Janet Pierson is happier than expected, except when her laptop is stolen; their daughter forges deep friendships with the locals; and their son offers plenty of smart-mouthed programming advice. More than just a personal tale, Reel Paradise is a movie-love story — watch the Fijians roar with delight during a Three Stooges comedy and you'll remember why we started going to the theater in the first place.

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