Kīpuka: From Ashes to Expression

The Honolulu Rainbow Film Festival gathers around the theme Kīpuka—a native plant that marks the first signs of life returning after the destruction of lava flow. Kīpuka speaks to the quiet, steady resilience of LGBTQIA+ communities, especially in moments when the air feels heavy and the headlines drown out our voices.

Through storytelling and film, we create space to feel, reflect, and reimagine. These screens bring together diverse, often unheard voices to celebrate identity, culture, and connection.

Reserve your spot today

Experience Every Story

Tickets for HRFF36 screenings and events are on sale now!
Prices for individual seats and VIP passes are listed below.

All-Access
Student

$30

All-Access
Kūpuna

$55

All-Access
VIP

$100

Individual Screening

$15

Opening Night Film and Reception

$25

Red Carpet Closing Party

$75

JUNe 27 - 29, 2025

Schedule & Trailers

This year’s lineup offers stories that stay with you.
Discover what’s screening, watch trailers, and plan your festival experience.

Friday, June 27, 2025
Doors Open at 5:00pm

Opening Night Reception

Hosted Food and Live Entertainment at HoMA. Beverages available for purchase. VIP Packet available for Pickup.
FRIDAY, June 27, 2025
Showing 7:30PM
Opening night film

Heightened Scrutiny

Follow Chase Strangio, ACLU attorney and the first out trans person to argue before the Supreme Court, as he fights a high-stakes legal battle to overturn Tennessee’s ban on gender-affirming care for transgender youth.
Friday, June 27, 2025
Short Film Preceding

SEAT 31: Zooey Zephyr

After Zooey Zephyr was expelled from the Montana House of Representatives for defending transgender medical care, she made a nearby bench her “office.” Director Kimberly Reed’s intimate camera transforms this explosive political moment into a moving portrait of trans and queer joy.