“I’ve attended a few film festivals over the years but nothing like the Big Island Film Festival. Everything from the venues to the people that put on the festival was first-class. The films I saw were very good. I think one of my favorite parts was hearing the filmmakers talk about their productions. You could feel the passion that they had for their craft, and they were just really nice people.”
-Justin Finestone, Hawai’i Island Film Commissioner

Mahalo to Big Island Film Festival for a fantastic weekend in paradise! What an incredible experience. ‘Til next time… Aloha! -Edd Bender, “Superior”

Phil Payson So happy to have been a part of such a stellar line up! Thanks for the recognition!

Vinnie Taranto: Thank you Leo, Jan, all the staff and all the filmmakers for an unforgettable weekend and making us a part of your ʻohana. Aloha.

BIFF is a filmmakers film festival, they make you feel like a rock star.
–Jack Niedenthal, Microwave Films of the Marshall Islands

BIFF was a wonderful experience. Connecting with creative people and seeing great films in such a lovely setting was unforgettable. -Bradley King, “Time Lapse”

The Big Island Film Festival is the ROLLS ROYCE of Film Festivals! Everything is 1st class from the minute you arrive till the time you leave, you’re experience will be one of viewing good films, making new friends, and having great fun! You do not want to miss this Festival Memorial day weekend! And don’t forget we have Celebrities too!  -Rich Gonzalez, GIFilms

The Big Island Film Festival treats all filmmakers like royalty, with a cool, chill vibe.  Our film “Pretty Rosebud” had a great reception…one of the most positive film festival experiences out there, with catered parties, passionate filmlovers, and a gorgeous location!  Thank you, BIFF!  –Chuti Lynn Tiu

It was hard for me to really think of one adjective when describing the BIFF, but if I have to choose it would be IMPRESSIVE. The venues, the projects, the staff and crowds, really truly impressive. BIFF is easily one of the most organized festivals I’ve gone to. The staff is very friendly and takes the time to answer any questions one might have. The experience of viewing films under the stars on the big island is truly breathtaking. Winning a Golden Honu my second time at the festival was an amazing experience. I tell all my film friends the BIFF is a perfect balance of work and play. There is a reason I’ve submitted to the festival twice and rest assured I’ll be sending all my future projects. -Lance Dumais, “Decklin and the Darkness”

Having had the pleasure of traveling to the festival twice – I have plenty of wonderful things to say about it!! I’ll boil it down to:
A truly wonderful experience – surrounded by a crazy beautiful environment and crazy talented filmmakers”
An absolutely sublime experience
One of the most rewarding festivals I have traveled to
The perfect place to screen and meet like-minded filmmakers
Well, I could go on and on – I’ve loved each of my experiences at the festival!
mahalo! -Scott Ballard

Unique, Inclusive, Intimate, Nurturing, Once-In-A-Lifetime (except for those of us fortunate to attend every year)! – Brian Kohne, “Get A Job,” Malama Pono Productions