UK-based Matador Pictures and Hawaii-based Island Film Group have started production today on Barbarian Princess, which director Marc Forby is shooting in Honolulu and in Norfolk, UK.

As previously reporter, Q'orianka Kilcher, Barry Pepper, Will Patton and Shaun Evans star.

The film becomes the first feature to shoot inside Honolulu's Iolani Palace.

The story is based on the true story of an Hawaiian heir to the throne who has to adapt to life in Victorian England and who must choose between love and saving her kingdom.

Matador's Nigel Thomas and Lauri Apelian and Island's Ricardo Galindez and Roy Tjioe will produce. Backers also include Future Films USA, Future Films Production Services and UK regional screen agency Screen East.

ContentFilm International is handling sales.

Matador's Apelian said: 'This is a powerful, epic story about the strength of a young woman who is forced to choose between the love for her country and the love of a man. It's steeped in American and Hawaiian history, and filled with passion and determination. It's very exciting to be a part of this film which has attracted an award-winning cast and crew.'