The University of Hawaiʻi Academy for Creative Media (ACM) System is offering a unique opportunity for ACM students and faculty across all 10 campuses to engage with the film industry through the 44th annual Hawaiʻi International Film Festival presented by Halekulani (HIFF). The highly anticipated festival opens on October 3, and ACM participants are encouraged to register for free tickets and passes, courtesy of the HIFFxACM Accelerator program.
The HIFFxACM Accelerator is designed to help budding filmmakers and creative media students make critical connections within the industry while furthering their own professional and creative goals. The exclusive ACM pass offers free admission to five HIFF44 premiere screenings, access to industry panels, and invitations to special presentations at UH West Oʻahu, including screenings of renowned films.
Said ACM System Founder and Director Chris Lee, “We’re so excited to partner for a second year in the HIFF x ACM Accelerator program. Already, over 400 students and faculty from across the UH System have signed up for the free tickets and we’re going to keep the registration open through the Festival.”
Boba Fett, special screenings
One of the festival’s highlights is the in-person appearance of Star Wars actor Temuera Morrison at UH West Oʻahu on October 16, for a screening of The Book of Boba Fett. The event will be followed by a special presentation of Hawaiʻi Ponoʻī 1970, a documentary celebrating Hawaiian cultural icons, such as ʻIolani Luahine and Sonny Chillingworth, featuring precious images out of the campus’ premiere archive, ʻUluʻulu.
Beyond screenings, ACM students can dive deeper into the festival through networking events like the Cinema and Media Mentor program, and HIFF’s Metaverse, which connects them with media professionals globally. These opportunities expand their exposure to the broader film and media industries, helping them explore career paths beyond the classroom.
“We are thrilled to collaborate with the University of Hawaiʻi Academy for Creative Media through the HIFFxACM Accelerator program. This initiative has proven wildly popular and impactful for students and professors alike, providing our talented ACM participants with invaluable access to the festival and fostering vital connections within the film industry. HIFF is excited to support the next generation of filmmakers as they explore their creative potential and engage with the rich tapestry of international cinema,” said Beckie Stocchetti, HIFFexecutive director.
The HIFFxACM Accelerator program aims to empower students through hands-on experiences, mentorship, and a deeper understanding of international cinema. HIFF continues its mission to promote cultural exchange among the people of Asia, the Pacific, and North America while advancing film literacy and career development for Hawaiʻi’s emerging filmmakers.
ACM System supports 16 different programs across all 10 UH campuses.