FRAN ROCKSTAR!
- Shorts Programs, VC Presents
- 90 mins
FREE/PAY WHAT YOU CAN
Filmmakers in attendance. Film program will be followed by Q&A
Journey down memory lane with a special retrospective of short films celebrating one of VC’s beloved veterans of the Digital Histories program, Frances Ito. Ito, who will celebrate her 90th birthday this year, will also celebrate the world premiere of her 12th film at this year’s fest.
In this program
TEGAMI: THE LETTER
Directed by Arlene Maala, Christy Ishimine, David Osako
An office worker finds a letter that leads him on a mysterious journey.
POPO CRUISING ANTARCTICA
Directed by Frances Ito
Popo, at 81 years old, cruises Antarctica during a holiday trip. It’s fun, food, and penguins.
RETURNING TO HEART MOUNTAIN
Directed by Frances Ito
During World War II, 12,000 Japanese immigrants and Japanese American citizens were interned at Heart Mountain, including my husband’s family.
“71º10’21”N (LAND OF THE NORTH STAR)
Directed by Frances Ito
With temperatures in the 40’s in the Arctic Zone in the summer, the midnight sun never sets. Journey with me to the North Cape of Norway, the northernmost point in Europe. We will travel via Flam Railway and witness spectacular views of snow-capped fjords and cascading waterfalls — in July.
POPO’S GARDEN
Directed by Frances Ito
In exploring the origins of her edible garden, Ito unearths cherished family memories.
HELLO KITTY AND HER FANS
Directed by Frances Ito
Sanrio created Hello Kitty and began her globalization in 1974. She is not a cat, does not have a mouth but is an ambassador of friendship. Watch how she takes over the world with her motto: you can never have too many friends!
POPO’S GRANDSON
Directed by Frances Ito
Wes is a 16-year-old free spirit with a blue mohawk. Growing up is a struggle in itself, so what will be of his future?
MOTHER DAUGHTER JOURNEY
Directed by Frances Ito
A mother and daughter journey to the northern-most part of the United States and encounter nature at its best.
WALKING THE TALK
Directed by Frances Ito
Ann Burroughs shares her journey as a young activist against apartheid in South Africa to the current President and CEO of the Japanese American National Museum and how her early experiences shaped her stand against injustice.
FRAN
Directed by Robert Shoji
With her infectious laugh and great sense of humor, Pearl Harbor survivor Fran Ito answers a series of questions designed to reveal her outlook on life.
FUN ON 4 STRINGS
Directed by Frances Ito
Every Monday (rain or shine) 30 to 40 seniors gather to jam on their ukuleles. Jamming and having fun! This group, Hui Aloha Na Makana (Gift of Love), began in 2000. They are invited to share their music to Elders at retirement and nursing homes, birthdays celebration, and special events. They sing in Hawaiian, Japanese, Pilipino and in English. Spreading good will and socializing…especially having fun.