Experience the Spirit of Discovery and Redemption at HIFF46
Opening Night: A Historic Voyage Reimagined
The 46th Hawai‘i International Film Festival, proudly sponsored by Halekulani, will inaugurate its festivities with the global debut of “The Navigator.” This compelling documentary, crafted by director Jordan Manley, will grace the screens of the venerable Hawai‘i Theatre Center. It marks a significant return to this historic venue for the festival's opening night since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, symbolizing a renewed connection with cinematic tradition.
The Legacy of Nainoa Thompson Through Film
“The Navigator” delves into the remarkable journey of Nainoa Thompson, a Native Hawaiian who, nearly five decades ago, achieved the extraordinary feat of sailing from Hawai‘i to Tahiti without contemporary navigation tools. The film captures his subsequent return voyage spanning 2,400 miles, accompanied by a new cohort of wayfinder apprentices. Their training draws upon the profound wisdom imparted by the legendary master navigator, Mau Piailug, weaving a narrative that connects generations through ancestral knowledge and seafaring prowess.
A Celebration of Hawaiian Identity and Heritage
Jean H. Lee, the Executive Director of HIFF, expressed immense pride in opening the festival with “The Navigator.” Lee emphasized the film’s deep resonance with Hawai‘i’s cultural identity and the festival’s core mission. She highlighted Nainoa Thompson’s enduring legacy as a symbol of revitalized ancestral knowledge, bridging Oceania and underscoring the vital responsibility of transmitting this wisdom to future generations.
Centerpiece Presentation: Sung Kang's “Drifter”
The centerpiece of HIFF46 will be the Hawai‘i premiere of “Drifter,” the debut feature film from actor and filmmaker Sung Kang. Kang not only directed but also penned, produced, and stars in this gripping narrative. “Drifter” unfolds within the vibrant drifting subculture, following a solitary racetrack janitor haunted by past wounds. He finds a singular opportunity for redemption on the track, contingent upon learning to trust those around him.
An Extensive Showcase of Global and Local Cinema
This year’s festival boasts an impressive lineup of 84 films, featuring 34 world premieres, six North American premieres, 12 U.S. premieres, and three international premieres. The program also includes selections previously showcased at prestigious festivals such as Cannes, Sundance, Berlin, and Busan. Additionally, HIFF will present 86 short films, distinguishing itself as the sole Academy Award-qualifying film festival in Hawai‘i for this category.
Diverse Premieres Spanning Genres and Regions
Among the 24 exclusive premiere titles are a rich array of films. World premieres include “Beyond the Smiles: Yani Tseng,” “Making the Line,” “Niu Forever,” “Orphan Myth,” “Sukiyaki,” and “Protecting Kahoʻolawe: 50 Years of Aloha ʻĀina.” North American audiences will first see “The House on the Moon,” “The Mage,” “Ugly Duckling Ms. Maeng,” and “Will You Still Be My Friend?” U.S. premieres feature “Big Little Things,” “Chura Vita,” “Fruit Gathering,” “Lomu,” “Los Vampires,” “Satoko Always,” “Sgt. Haane,” “Sukundimi Walks Before Me,” “We Are Born Good,” and “You Are the Film.” International premieres include “2 Valid IDs,” “Guided by Horses,” and “Shadow Work.” The festival also presents studio highlights from Netflix, A24, IFC Films, Searchlight Pictures, Amazon MGM Studios, and Neon, showcasing a broad spectrum of cinematic excellence.
HIFILM Industry Conference: Fostering Dialogue and Connection
Beyond the film screenings, HIFF46 will host its second annual HIFILM industry conference. This significant event will feature engaging conversations with acclaimed filmmaker Destin Daniel Cretton, “Romanticals” creator Jonah Feingold, producer Walter Hamada, Desert Eclipse CEO Jason Chen, and actors Holt McCallany, Henry Ian Cusick, Alex Tarrant, and Amy Hill, as well as writer-producer Dana Ledoux Miller, among other distinguished guests. The conference aims to foster dialogue and connections within the film community.
A Global Tapestry of Cinematic Stories
Anderson Le, HIFF’s artistic director, highlighted the festival’s intrinsic connection to its location, emphasizing its unique ability to present a diverse range of films. Le noted that HIFF can seamlessly transition from an awards contender from Cannes or Sundance to a Hawaiian world premiere, and then to a film from a new filmmaker from Korea, Japan, the Philippines, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Aotearoa, or other parts of Oceania. He stressed that “they all belong in the same conversation,” underscoring the festival’s inclusive and globally-minded approach.
Festival Dates and Locations
The Hawai‘i International Film Festival will take place from October 21 to November 5 on Oahu. The cinematic celebration will then extend to Maui, Molokai, Lanai, and the Big Island of Hawai‘i, concluding on November 15, allowing a broader audience across the islands to partake in the festival’s offerings.
