New Voices Shorts — Bold Stories from Emerging Filmmakers
HAAPIFEST 2026 proudly showcases the next generation of filmmakers with “New Voices Shorts” on June 7, 2026 at 3:45 PM, a vibrant 133-minute collection of short films spanning comedy, documentary, fantasy, drama, horror, and coming-of-age storytelling.
Screening at the DoubleTree by Hilton Westchase, this showcase highlights rising filmmakers bringing fresh perspectives and original creative voices to the screen through stories centered on identity, friendship, family, cultural memory, grief, and transformation.
Featured Films in “New Voices Shorts”
CHECK PLEASE
Directed by Shane Chung
Two stubborn Koreans can’t agree on who should pay for dinner, causing an ordinary restaurant outing to spiral into an outrageous martial arts showdown. This energetic action-comedy blends humor, pride, and escalating chaos.
Chicago Cafe
Directed by Kristie Chow and Jeffrey Wu
As a beloved 100-year-old Chinese restaurant prepares to close, this intimate documentary follows owners Paul and Nancy Fong through quiet reflections, family memories, and the emotional process of letting go.
Saying Goodbye
Directed by Issa Chao 趙珮妤
Facing the end of her life, Lijuan reflects on motherhood, sacrifice, and the version of herself she left behind. This emotional drama offers a deeply personal meditation on identity and regret.
A Swim in the Desert
Directed by Coffee Kang
After experiencing a haunting vision, K embarks on a surreal journey across California landscapes searching for relief and meaning in this visually poetic drama exploring absence, longing, and water.
Sea Song
Directed by An-Phuong Ly
The last remaining South Vietnamese naval officers reunite one final time with the few people who fully understand their shared history and sacrifices. This documentary reflects on memory, displacement, and community.
Tuimaseve: A High Chief Story
Directed by Benjamin Pola
This documentary follows two generations of Sāmoan high chiefs reflecting on leadership, family responsibility, and how the fa'amatai system continues evolving across the diaspora.
My Brother, My Friend
Directed by Emil Irimpan and Varun Venkatesh
A spontaneous getaway to a lakeside cabin forces two childhood friends to confront buried tensions and unresolved emotions as old wounds slowly resurface.
A Graduation Story
Directed by Linh Tran
A college senior eagerly anticipates graduation day, only to unexpectedly face the milestone alone after plans fall apart. Warm, bittersweet, and relatable, the film captures loneliness and resilience during major life transitions.
Yakuza Ondo
Directed by Ethan Okamoto
Haunted by the ghost of a man he killed, a Yakuza member is pushed toward one final act of compassion in this supernatural drama exploring guilt, redemption, and consequence.
Something Good Going On
Directed by Arnold Setiadi
During his final days at home, a first-generation Indonesian American teen struggles with family expectations, a missing restaurant paycheck, and the pressure surrounding his Ivy League future.
Emerging Voices & Independent Cinema at HAAPIFEST 2026
The “New Voices Shorts” showcase celebrates rising filmmakers bringing bold creativity and emotional honesty to the screen. From action-comedy and documentary to fantasy and heartfelt drama, these films reflect the diversity and innovation shaping the future of independent cinema.
HAAPIFEST 2026 continues its mission of supporting creative storytelling through documentaries, narrative films, shorts programs, filmmaker Q&As, panels, and cultural events in Houston.
Event Details
📅 June 7, 2026 @ 3:45 PM
📍 DoubleTree by Hilton Westchase
📍 10609 Westpark Dr, Houston, TX
🎬 “New Voices Shorts”
⏱ Runtime: 133 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.