HIFF Opens: Here's My Checklist

French film The Artist premieres at EuroCinema Hawaii.

Photo: Courtesy HIFF

The Hawaii International Film Festival begins showing its films from around the world and thousands will be flocking to Regal Dole Cannery Stadium.

There are over 250 films to choose from, so it will be a challenge to fit all the films I’d like to see into just ten days.

Therefore, I’ve created a short list. Here are a few highlights:

EuroCinema Hawaii
For the second year, EuroCinema is showcasing eight European films in conjunction with HIFF. Think of it as a festival within a festival. You’ll be able to catch films from France, Italy, Belgium, UK, Germany and Ireland. European films are “good for the mind in opening it up to the world,” says Princess Dialta Alliata di Montereale, director of public relations for EuroCinema Hawaii. The films include a restored version of La Dolce Vita. See the full schedule.

The Descendants
This film, starring George Clooney, and shot entirely in Hawaii, sold out within 48 hours. When HIFF executive director Chuck Boller was asked about creating a second screening, he said, “It’s impossible.” Better luck to the public on November 23, when it opens in theaters. See my story on The Descendants: Behind the Scenes.

An Afternoon with Hawaii 5-0
Executive Producer Peter Lenkov and actors Alex O’Loughlin, Grace Park and Daniel Dae Kim are among the list of panelists appearing at this talk story event, happening Sunday, October 16. Tickets are still available, but not for long, so stop reading and buy now!

Made in Hawaii films
“Twenty years ago, it was a huge undertaking for local filmmakers to enter HIFF,” remembers Chuck Boller, executive director of HIFF. Today, the digital revolution has given rise to an increase in local film submission. This year, HIFF presents six new films made in Hawaii. Check out the schedule.

Master Class with Surrogate Valentine team: How to shoot, edit and distribute your feature for under $30,000.
Hawaii filmmakers have a chance to learn from a team who has produced films with budgets of $25,000, and met with critical success to boot. White on Rice was a HIFF favorite in 2009.

Visit hiff.org for the full schedule of films and events.

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