As part of the 125th Anniversary of Okinawan Immigration celebrations, the Hawaii International Film Festival (HIFF) and the Hawaii United Okinawa Association (HUOA) are proud to present a Film Spotlight on Okinawa at this year’s festival.
Three films set in Okinawa will make their international premieres at HIFF, highlighting the island’s rich culture, history, and artistry on the global stage.
The 45th Hawaii International Film Festival runs from:
- October 15–26 (Honolulu)
- October 27–30 (West Oahu)
- November 1–2 (Kauai)
- November 7–9 (Big Island, Waimea)
- November 8–9 (Maui)
- November 13–16 (Big Island, Hilo)
- November 14–16 (Molokai)
Tickets go on sale Monday, September 22 at hiff.org.
Featured Films
Army on the Tree
Directed by Kazuhiro Taira
Screenings: October 18 & October 23
Director Kazuhiro Taira (Miracle City Koza, HIFF42; co-director of Step Out) adapts Inoue’s intimate play into a feature-length film, opening with a half-hour prologue and gripping combat sequences. Shot entirely on location in Okinawa, the film is a powerful meditation on survival, loyalty, and the human cost of war—capturing the physical and emotional transformation of two men caught between life, death, and memory.
Step Out
Directed by Yukihiko Tsutsumi & Kazuhiro Taira
Screenings: October 19 & October 20
Teenager Teruya Yō lives in Okinawa with his single mother Akane and younger sister Mai. After falling for dance student Lisa, he discovers a passion for dance, encouraged by his mother’s unwavering support. When a relative reveals his father’s death, Yō must confront his emotions and decide between pursuing dreams in Tokyo or staying rooted in his island home. A heartfelt coming-of-age story from Kazuhiro Taira (Miracle City Koza, HIFF 2022).
Hero’s Island
Directed by Keishi Otomo
Screenings: October 18 & October 29
Based on the bestselling novel, this epic film follows three friends in 1952 Okinawa who steal from U.S. bases until their leader suddenly vanishes. Their paths diverge—one becomes a detective, another a teacher, and the third a yakuza—yet all remain haunted by their missing leader’s legacy. From Keishi Otomo, acclaimed director of Rurouni Kenshin.
Group Tickets
HIFF offers discounted tickets for groups of 10 or more:
- $12 per person (regular $17)
The HIFF Box Office can prepare invoices and send tickets directly via email for group orders.
