Hawaii International Film Festival: A celebration of diverse storytelling
The Hawaii International Film Festival (HIFF), now in its 44th year, promises an eclectic mix of films and TV series that celebrate diverse voices and narratives. This year’s festival, presented by Halekulani, will open with the heartwarming drama “Tinā” and close with the thought-provoking “Hakkenden: Fiction and Reality.”
Opening and closing highlights
Tinā: A journey of healing and resilience
“Tinā,” directed by Miki Magasiva, marks a significant debut in the world of feature films. This New Zealand production, with dialogues in English and Samoan, stars Anapela Polata’ivao as a talented vocal coach who faces personal tragedy. Her journey takes her to an elite, all-white private school where she becomes a substitute teacher and forms a choir, finding healing and purpose in the process. Watch the trailer.
Hakkenden: Fiction and Reality
Closing the festival is “Hakkenden: Fiction and Reality,” directed by Sori Fumihiko. The film features Yakusho Koji as a legendary writer who, facing blindness, narrates his unfinished fantasy masterpiece to his closest friend. This narrative explores the blurred lines between fiction and reality, making it a fitting end to the festival. Watch the trailer.
A rich tapestry of films and shorts
This year’s festival boasts an impressive lineup of 92 features and 114 short films. Among the highlights are:
- Moloka’i Bound: Directed by Alika Tengan, this film follows a Hawaiian man recently paroled from prison as he struggles to reintegrate into society. Watch the trailer.
- Agent of Happiness: A Bhutanese film by Arun Bhattarai and Dorottya Zurbó that delves into the pursuit of happiness in a rapidly changing world. Watch the trailer.
- Chinatown Cha Cha: Directed by Luka Yang Yuanyuan, this film explores the cultural intersections between China and the U.S. Watch the trailer.
Celebrating indigenous perspectives and cultural identity
HIFF’s executive director, Beckie Stochetti, emphasizes the festival’s commitment to showcasing films that explore Indigenous perspectives and cultural identity. This year’s selection includes the largest number of Hawaiian films in competition in the festival’s history.
Prestige TV Series Panorama
Recognizing the growing influence of television, HIFF introduces the Prestige TV Series Panorama. This new section features:
- Getting Lost: A documentary series by Taylor Morden that revisits the global phenomenon of “Lost.” Watch the trailer.
- Interior Chinatown: Directed by Taika Waititi, this Hulu series follows an Asian American actor navigating stereotypes in his career and personal life. Watch the trailer.
- Shōgun: An epic series set in Japan, produced by FX. Watch the trailer.
Honoring trailblazers and visionaries
The festival will honor several notable figures with prestigious awards:
- Sandra Ng: Recipient of the HIFF Spotlight On Hong Kong Filmmaker in Profile Award.
- Temuera Morrison: Awarded the HIFF Leanne K Ferrer Pasifika Trailblazer Award.
- Stanley Nelson: Recognized with the HIFF Halekulani Vision in Film Award for his contributions to chronicling the African American experience in nonfiction film.
A yearbook of global cinema
HIFF’s non-competitive selection serves as a yearbook of the best films from major festivals like Sundance, Cannes, and Toronto. Highlights include:
- About Family: Directed by Seok Yang Woo, this film explores the complexities of familial relationships. Watch the trailer.
- An Unfinished Film: A poignant narrative by Lou Ye. Watch the trailer.
- Bird: Directed by Andrea Arnold, this film delves into the intricacies of human connections. Watch the trailer.
Festival schedule and locations
The festival runs from October 3-13 in Honolulu, followed by screenings in various locations across Hawaii, including West Oahu, Maui, Lanai, Kauai, and the Big Island. This extensive schedule ensures that film enthusiasts across the state can partake in the cinematic celebration.
For more information and to explore the full lineup, visit the HIFF official website.
The Hawaii International Film Festival continues to be a beacon for diverse storytelling, offering a platform for voices from around the world. Whether you’re a fan of cinema, TV series, or both, this year’s festival promises a rich and rewarding experience.