This spring, two talented youth filmmakers from the Tlingit village of Angoon, Alaska are heading to Hawai‘i! Angoon students, Justice Duncan and Angel Jack, will be debuting their films on the Angoon Bombardment at the 2025 ‘Ōpio Fest at the Hawai‘i International Film Festival (HIFF), a celebration of student voices and storytelling from across the Pacific.

We asked Justice and Angel to reflect on their selection, their films, and what they’re most looking forward to about the trip.

---

Meet Justice Duncan

Film Title: The Canoe That Saved Angoon
Film Bio on HIFF →
Watch it on See Stories →

What are 3 words that describe how you felt when you found out your film was selected to HIFF?
“Excited, honored, and grateful.”

What are you most looking forward to about going to Hawai‘i for HIFF?
“I’m looking forward to experiencing world-class cinema while enjoying the stunning scenery, culture, and hospitality of Hawai‘i. I’m excited about connecting with filmmakers, industry professionals, and fellow film enthusiasts in a vibrant, creative environment.”

Why do you think your film is important?
“I think it’s very important to share information about your community’s history. In my film, I shared the effects of the destruction to our Tlingit village by the Navy 142 years ago. The apology from the Navy will help our community start healing from the wrongs that were committed.”

What do you hope people will take away after watching your film?
“My hope is that people who view my film will have a better understanding of the trauma from the attack on our village 142 years ago. The apology will help our people start healing and moving forward.”

Top activity you want to do in Hawai‘i:
“Go and see Pearl Harbor.”

---

Meet Angel Jack

Film Title: Healing Through Time
Film Bio on HIFF →
Watch it on See Stories →

What are 3 words that describe how you felt when you found out your film was selected to HIFF?
“Shocked, happy, and surprised.”

What are you most looking forward to about going to Hawai‘i for HIFF?
“I’m looking forward to meeting new people and seeing all the other films people have made. I’m also looking forward to the nice weather :)”

Why do you think your film is important?
“My film is important because it shows the different perspectives of a Native and a Navy person about the bombardment — and whether they think it was a misunderstanding. It’s good to get different perspectives because it can lead to deeper conversations with people.”

What do you hope people will take away after watching your film?
“I hope people learn about the bombardment and how it has affected us for the past 100+ years.”

Top activity you want to do in Hawai‘i:
“Driving to a different part of the island… I also want to get shaved ice 🙂 (sorry that was 2 things)”

---

This trip marks more than a celebration of youth creativity — it’s a moment of cultural connection and healing. Justice and Angel are using the power of film to educate, spark conversation, and represent their community with pride.

We can’t wait to see what’s ahead for these two amazing storytellers! Their films will be featured at the HIFF ‘Ōpio Fest, which takes place April 8 – 13, 2025, at Consolidated Theatres Kahala in Honolulu, Hawai’i. (And tickets are still available to purchase!)

🎥 Follow @HIFFHawaii and use #HIFFOpio to keep up with their journey!