Dakine: HIFF Picks

"A Touch of Sin": An exploration of violence and corruption in contemporary China inspired by true events that forced the world’s fastest-growing economy into a period of self-examination. Written and directed by Jia Zhangke, the film focuses on four characters driven to violent ends: an angry miner enraged by widespread corruption who decides to take justice into his own hands; a migrant who discovers the possibilities of owning a firearm; a young receptionist pushed beyond her limits by an abusive client; and a young factory worker who faces degrading circumstances. In Mandarin with English subtitles. North American premiere, 3 p.m. today at Dole Cannery Stadium 18

"Philomena": A cynical journalist (Steve Coogan) travels with Philomena (Judi Dench) to America in search of the son she was forced to give up for adoption as a young, unwed mother in Ireland. A surprising relationship develops that is both profoundly moving and very funny. Directed by Stephen Frears. Hawaii premiere, 6 p.m. today at Dole Cannery Stadium 18

"Jellyfish": Yuki (Mio Otani), a lonely high school girl, enters into a taboo relationship with a female classmate, Kyoko (Rumi Hanai). When Kyoko finds a boyfriend, the sweet romance turns poisonous, unveiling dark secrets involving fetishism and erotic asphyxiation. Directed by Shusuke Kaneko. In Japanese with English subtitles. North American premiere, 9 p.m. today at Dole Cannery Stadium 18