HONOLULU (KHON2) -- The 44th annual Hawai‘i International Film Festival (HIFF) recently wrapped up its Honolulu portion of the festival, marking an exciting chapter in the festival's history. With more than 200 films showcased and 40 world premieres, it truly was a banner year for the festival. Becky Stocchetti, the executive director of HIFF, described the event as an incredible success. Get Hawaii's latest morning news delivered to your inbox, sign up for News 2 You “It’s been an absolutely incredible banner year for the Hawai‘i International Film Festival,” Stocchetti said. “We had more world premieres this year than we’ve ever had before as part of our entire program!” Record-breaking attendance and local focus The festival took over the Consolidated Kahala Theaters with film and shorts also showing at Ward Theaters and also held events at the Entrepreneur Sandbox and the new HIFF headquarters. Stocchetti mentioned that they broke records for attendance as the festival drew in guests from around the globe. “We took over the entirety of Consolidated Kahala Theaters,” she said. “This year, we also had a record-breaking number of guests from all over the world attending the festival.” One of the highlights was the Made in Hawai‘i program, which featured nine feature films and 24 short films. “This program was a huge success for us,” Stocchetti noted. “We broke all kinds of records, showcasing the best local talent.” This included special honors for Maui's own Rachel Kondo who is the creator and showrunner for the multiple award-winning series Shogun. Honoring remarkable filmmakers Each year, HIFF honors outstanding individuals in the film industry; and this year was no exception. Stocchetti emphasized the festival’s goal to bring the best talent from around the world, with a particular focus on Asian and Pacific Rim artists. “This year, our Halekulani Vision in Film Award went to Stanley Nelson,” she explained. “He is one of the highest-rated documentary filmmakers in the United States, and his work focuses on the Black American experience. We are incredibly honored to have him as our honoree this year.” Stocchetti also highlighted other significant honorees the festival sought to spotlight. “We had Temuera Morrison, known as Boba Fett from Star Wars, receiving the Pacifica Trailblazer Award,” she said. “His career began with 'Once Were Warriors,' and he has been a common face in Hawaiʻi films.” The festival also recognized Sandra Ng, the preeminent comedienne/actor from Hong Kong cinema, as a spotlight honoree. “She brought so much energy to the festival,” Stocchetti added. Rachel Kondo and Justin Marks received the Career Achievement Award, which Stocchetti described as a beautiful homecoming. “Rachel was born and raised on Maui, and they currently live there,” she said. “They are co-creators of ‘Shogun’, a series that swept the Emmys this year with 25 nominations and a whopping 18 wins.” Finally, the HIFF44 Maverick Award goes to the entire team of Chinatown International. "This year, the award goes to the entire team behind Interior Chinatown," said Stocchetti. Sneak peeks and community engagement One of the exciting events was the sneak peek of “Interior Chinatown,” a show set to be released on Hulu. The team behind the series received the Maverick Award. Stocchetti expressed enthusiasm for the project. “We are showing a sneak peek of the first pilot episode at HIFF44,” she said. “Charles Yu, the writer and showrunner, and cast members Jimmy Yang, Chloe Bennet, and Ronny Chieng participated in a panel discussion, which allowed local audiences to engage with them directly.” On Oct. 15, HIFF hosted a free event called “Rescue Hi-Surf” which featured a special presentation of a new series praised for integrating kamaʻāina talent. Stocchetti noted, “This event is all about bringing our local community into the spotlight.” Expanding the festival's reach The festival plans to continue its outreach with upcoming showcases on the neighbor islands. Stocchetti mentioned that HIFF would visit several venues after the main event. “We are excited to return to the Maui Arts & Cultural Center on October 19-20,” she said. “This showcase will feature Made in Hawai‘i favorites from the festival.” The festival's itinerary includes: Lana‘i Theater at Hale Keaka: Oct. 21-23. Kaua‘i: KCC Performing Arts Center | Nov. 1-3. Big Island: Kahilu Theatre | Nov. 2-3. Moloka‘i: Kaunakakai Elementary School | Nov. 7-8. Hawaiʻi Island: The Palace Theater | Nov. 7-10. Stocchetti emphasized how important it is to share these films with communities throughout Hawaiʻi. “We want to ensure that everyone has a chance to experience the magic of these stories,” she explained. A memorable experience for attendees For those who attended HIFF44, it was more than just a film festival; it was a celebration of culture and creativity. Stocchetti said, “This festival not only showcases films but also creates opportunities for networking and collaboration among local filmmakers and international talents.” Festival-goers had the chance to explore various films, attend panels, and engage in discussions that sparked inspiration and creativity. The atmosphere buzzed with excitement, and attendees left feeling connected to the stories being told on screen. HIFF44 was a remarkable celebration of film, culture, and community. With its strong focus on local talent and diverse voices, the festival brought together filmmakers and audiences in a meaningful way. As Stocchetti stated, “We are committed to showcasing what we have to offer in Hawaiʻi and creating a vibrant space for artistic exchange.” For those who missed this year's festival, there will be many more opportunities to enjoy the magic of film at upcoming screenings. HIFF continues to be a vital part of Hawaiʻi's cultural landscape, leaving attendees eager for next year’s festivities. To learn more about HIFF and its future events, click here. Get news on the go with KHON 2GO, KHON's morning podcast, every morning at 8 The festival not only entertains but also inspires, making it an essential part of Hawaiʻi's artistic heritage.