HIFF launches
18th annual event

More than 500 filmmakers from 26 countries have submitted films for this year's Hawaii International Film Festival. But final selection of about 100 films to be shown Nov. 6-19 will take place in the next few months, said Christian Gaines, HIFF director.

The festival will take place Nov. 6-13 on Oahu and Nov. 13-19 on the neighbor islands. Gaines expects more than 60,000 people to see the films on the 25 screens statewide.

Details of this year's film festival, including the films to be shown and special guests, will be announced at HIFF's launch party Saturday, Oct. 17.

One of the highlights of this, the 18th annual Hawaii festival, is a special tribute to surf cinematography. In addition, a special section of contemporary French cinema will coincide with the second annual French Festival taking place in Honolulu Nov. 7-22. HIFF also will a feature a selection of Filipino cinema to mark the Philippines' centennial celebration.

Swing out in time

Looking for places to "swing" yourself to the right beat? Swingwood Review will be tearing up the Sand Island R&B from 9 p.m. Saturday.

Swingwood Review, a modern swing band, features the vocals of Mike Brown and Veronica Kelly with backup by Mark Pearlman on guitar, Brad Walker on trumpet, John Velarde on sax, Curtis Ritchie on drums and Dale Kellison on bass.

Their show includes today's swing sounds, such as songs by the Cherry Poppin' Daddies and Squirrel Nut Zippers, and classics from Duke Ellington, Louis Jordan and Louis Prima.

So, if you're ready to do the jitterbug, get your zoot suits and pork pie hats out and lindy on down to 147 Sand Island Access Road. Call 847-4274.

For those who are wondering what "swing" is all about, why not try some lessons, 6:30 p.m. Wednesdays at Field's Dining and Dancing at 478 Ena Road. There is no cover charge and after the dance lessons, practice what you learned with West Coast Swing music beginning at 8:45 p.m. For information, call 946-6499.

Culinary art

Chai Chaowasaree will join other chefs in preparing culinary masterpieces for "Showcase '98," a presentation of food, wine and fine art 6 p.m. Sunday at Honolulu Academy of Arts.

Tickets are $55. Proceeds will benefit the academy's educational programs. Call 532-8700.

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