The Hawaii International Film Festival today announced a partnership with EuroCinema Hawai'i and will inaugurate its first ever "Festival within a Festival" with the October 2010 launch of EuroCinema Hawai'i.

EuroCinema Hawai'i will feature a special section of films, people, and events, which will highlight European films at HIFF with the ultimate goal of increasing exposure of European films in the Islands, a news release from HIFF officials stated today.

HIFF's Spring Showcase starts Friday and runs through April 22. Now in its 30th year, HIFF officials are hoping the new partnership helps its reputation as a true international festival and not one geared just toward films from Pacific Rim countries like Japan, China and South Korea.

"Asian cinema holds a special place in our hearts and souls,"HIFF executive director Chuck Boller stated.  "It has benefited HIFF tremendously in terms of audience interest, satisfaction, and support and in terms of giving HIFF a special niche in the world of film festivals.  That said, however, HIFF also screens films from other parts of the world which are equally strong, intriguing, and excellent. Our audience members and the public are not always aware of this."

EuroCinema Hawai'i, founded in 2009, will share its cinematic heritage of European films with HIFF.

 "We are excited to partner with HIFF to launch this unique 'Festival within a Festival,'" says Jefferson Finney, President of EuroCinema Hawai'i.  "There are always incredible films being made in Europe and we aim to bring the very best of those to Hawai'i for our first EuroCinema Festival this