Hawaii International Film Fest Coming to Molokai

HIFF News Release

The premier cinematic event of the Pacific, the 44th Hawaii International Film Fest (HIFF) Fall Festival presented by Halekulani will feature an exciting slate of screenings to showcase feature and short films from around the world with a special focus on Asia, the Pacific, and made-in-Hawaii productions. HIFF is a desired destination for celebrated industry professionals, emerging artists, and film enthusiasts from around the world. Free screenings on Molokai will take place at Kaunakakai Elementary School Nov. 7 and 8. Admission is free.

A Molokai filmmaker talk story event will kick off the film festival on Nov. 7 at 4 p.m. Special guests Ciara Lacy, director of “Queen’s Flowers,” Alika Tengan, director, of “Molokai Bound,” Holden Mandrial-Santos, actor in “Molokai Bound,” along with Molokai-based filmmakers Matt Yamashita and Mikiala Pescaia will gather for a special community discussion to share filmmaking experiences on Molokai and beyond. HIFF Executive Director Beckie Stochetti and HIFF Industry Manager Jana Park, who grew up on Molokai, will host the event, along with special community guest presentations by Dan Emhof of Akaku Community TV Director, and the Maui Film Commission.

The talk story will be followed by a 6 p.m. screening of the feature film “Molokai Bound.” Directed by Alika Tengan, “Molokai Bound” tells the story of Kainoa De Silva, a wayward Hawaiian man, recently paroled. In trying to prove himself worthy of his family and native heritage, Kainoa’s journey is a story of reconciliation and redemption.

The film festival will continue on Nov. 8 at 6 p.m. with a showcase of Molokai short films “The Last Cool Thing I’ve Ever Done,” directed by Kevin D’Angelo and starring Justin Luafalemana, along with “Kala,” directed by Matt Yamashita.

For more information on tickets, schedules, and events go to HIFF.ORG.