“Mother,” the highly anticipated South Korean drama directed by Bong Joon-ho, will be the opening night film at the 2009 Hawaii International Film Festival, HIFF officials announced today.

“Mother” featuring veteran Korean actress Kim Hye-ja, is the story of a mother setting out on a lonely fight to clear her son of a murder charge. It will screen at Regal Dole Cannery Stadium 18 Cinemas on Oct. 15 at 8 p.m.
The 128-minute film, in Korean with English subtitles, received a standing ovation after premiering at this year’s Cannes International Film Festival in May and also garnered attention at the Toronto International Film Festival.
“Mother” is one of several South Korean films playing at HIFF, which runs through Oct. 25. “Scandal Makers” is one the most successful comedies in South Korea with more than 8 million tickets sold. Also showing are “Running Turtle,” “A Million,” Frozen Flower” and “Private Eye and Antique.” In the Reel Life category, “Old Partner” and “Home From Home” will also be screened.
HIFF is showing more than 170 films from 36 countries at next month’s festival. All will be at the Regal Dole Cannery Stadium 18 Cinemas.
Tickets go on sale Oct. 1 for HIFF Ohana members and Oct. 5 to the public. General admission tickets are available for $10 or $9 for students, seniors, children and military. Tickets can be purchased at HIFF’s box office at 650 Iwilei Road #101 across from Regal
Dole Cannery Stadium 18 Cinemas, by phone 548-5905 or visit www.hiff.org for more information.