HAAPIFEST 2026 Presents “Centerpiece Shorts” — Six Bold Stories from Emerging Asian & Pacific Diaspora Filmmakers
HAAPIFEST 2026 invites Houston audiences to experience one of the festival’s most dynamic short film showcases with the “Centerpiece Shorts” program screening on May 30, 2026 at 1:15 PM. Featuring comedy, drama, satire, horror, and heartfelt family stories, this curated lineup highlights the creativity and range of today’s independent filmmakers.
From chaotic family gatherings and intergenerational secrets to cultural identity and futuristic anxieties, these six short films deliver unforgettable storytelling in one powerful screening block.
Featured Films in “Centerpiece Shorts”
GYOPO
Directed by Christina YR Lim
In this emotionally charged Korean-language short, a family goes to great lengths to protect a 10-year-old aspiring violinist from discovering the truth about her father and musical hero.
Grandma Nai Who Played Favorites
Directed by Chheangkea
During a chaotic Qingming family gathering, Grandma Nai escapes the afterlife after overhearing that her queer grandson is about to become engaged to a woman. Funny, heartfelt, and supernatural, the film blends family drama with sharp humor and cultural tradition.
Misadventures of a Nisei Week Queen
Directed by Evan Kodani
This compelling short documentary follows the remarkable life of June Aochi Berk — from surviving World War II incarceration in a horse stall to becoming a celebrated beauty pageant queen.
Chowmein Holiday
Directed by Iris Lanhua Ma
Two Asian American grandmothers embark on a chaotic California crime spree in this wildly original short film filled with humor, secrets, and unexpected emotional depth.
Technicians
Directed by Kelly Luu and Kevin Luu
A nail salon automation technician arrives to install self-service manicure stations, only to meet the Vietnamese American nail tech whose job he may replace. Blending humor and social commentary, the film explores technology, labor, and human connection.
Taga
Directed by Jill Sachs
When a Filipina American travels to the Philippines to reconnect with her heritage, she becomes entangled with a group of eco-volunteers whose disrespect toward local traditions awakens something ancient and terrifying.
A Must-See Shorts Program at HAAPIFEST 2026
Together, these six films showcase the depth, imagination, and bold storytelling emerging from today’s Asian and Pacific diaspora filmmakers. Audiences can expect a memorable cinematic experience filled with humor, suspense, emotional resonance, and cultural reflection.
Event Details
📅 May 30, 2026 @ 1:15 PM
📍 DoubleTree by Hilton Westchase
📍 10609 Westpark Dr, Houston, TX
🎬 “Centerpiece Shorts” Program
⏱ Runtime: 111 minutes
🎟️ Tickets and festival passes are available now at:
HAAPIFEST Official Ticket Website
About HAAPIFEST
HAAPIFEST 2026 takes place May 29 – June 14, 2026, featuring in-person screenings, filmmaker Q&As, cultural events, and select online programming available in Texas. The festival celebrates bold storytelling and creative voices through film, media, and community engagement.
This OCA-Greater Houston event is funded in part by Houston Arts Alliance through the City of Houston.