#United States #Honolulu #Vilcek Foundation #HIFF #Ke Huy Quan

The New American Perspectives Program at HIFF 2026

The Vilcek Foundation, in a creative collaboration with the Hawaiʻi International Film Festival (HIFF), proudly announces the return of its New American Perspectives (NAP) program, set to captivate audiences from October 21 to November 5, 2026, on the beautiful island of O'ahu. This esteemed program, a part of the festival for over two decades, shines a bright light on immigrant filmmakers, celebrating their invaluable contributions to contemporary cinema in the United States.

Featured within this year’s lineup is the talented Ke Huy Quan, an Academy Award® winner known for his exceptional performances, including in Everything Everywhere All at Once. Quan will lead a master class where he will share insights from his remarkable career, as well as engage in a thought-provoking book talk about his memoir, Never Say Die. His journey from childhood stardom to a celebrated filmmaker is an inspiring story not to be missed.

The NAP program showcases the work of five visiting filmmakers, including Henry Ian Cusick (from Peru), Liz Sargent (originally from South Korea), Alex Tarrant (a New Zealander), and Michelle Zhou (from China). Each filmmaker will bring their unique perspective and voice to the festival, presenting their latest projects while also participating in interactive sessions with the audience. This offers viewers the opportunity to gain insights into their creative processes and the challenges they face as artists in the industry.

Events to Look Forward To

1. Panel Discussion: The four guest filmmakers will take part in a panel discussion, exploring the significance of diverse narratives in film and the impact of immigrant and Indigenous viewpoints on the storytelling landscape. This is a crucial conversation that aims to challenge conventional filming narratives and promote inclusivity within the industry.

2. Master Class and Screening: Following a screening of Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom, Ke Huy Quan will lead a master class discussing the intricacies of filmmaking and his experiences in the industry.

Film Screenings and Special Features

As part of the festival's diverse offerings, several exciting films will have limited screenings. The selection features:

• - Los Vampires: Henry Ian Cusick stars in this horror film blending reality and performance set in 1930s Hollywood, marking its U.S. premiere at HIFF.
• - Take Me Home: Directed by Liz Sargent, this poignant film dives into the life of a Korean American adoptee dealing with family responsibilities amidst life's challenges.
• - Sgt. Haane: Showcasing the bravery of Māori soldier Haane Manahi during WWII, Alex Tarrant takes center stage in this gripping narrative.
• - Big Little Things: Explore themes of familial duty and personal authenticity in this film by Michelle Zhou, which brings together cultural expectations and self-identity in a thought-provoking manner.

The program aims to enrich narrative filmmaking by elevating immigrant stories, enhancing visibility, and empowering future storytellers through impactful cinema. As Jean H. Lee, executive director of HIFF states, “These films reflect the rich tapestry of American storytelling today and offer a platform for the next generation of creators to find their voices.”

Join Us

The NAP program promises an extraordinary celebration of talent and storytelling. Tickets for the screenings and events can be purchased online at hiff.org. Don’t miss this opportunity to engage with cinema that speaks to the heart of the human experience and showcases the incredible diversity of voices shaping modern narrative.

The Vilcek Foundation continues its mission to spotlight immigrant contributions to the arts, demonstrating that stories from a variety of backgrounds enrich the cultural fabric of America. Join us at HIFF for an unforgettable exploration of cinema that celebrates inclusivity and creativity. Every story matters, and every voice deserves to be heard.