Hawaii International Film Festival 2009

After devoting two years to research and filming, director Marlene Booth makes her HIFF debut with a documentary focusing on a language that is interwoven into the fabric of life in Hawaii. Born on sugar plantations and at one time spoken by more than half of Hawaii's population, 'Pidgin' - part English, part Hawaiian, with influences from other languages - captures the essence of multi-ethnic Hawaii. PIDGIN: THE VOICE OF HAWAII profiles this working-class language from its rise as plantation jargon to a source of island identity and pride. The film draws on a variety of sources, including archival, academic and other expert commentary, man-on-the-street interviews and performances that shed light on this colorful language. Dedicating the documentary to the late Kanalu Young, who encouraged and guided Booth to learn more about the language, PIDGIN: THE VOICE OF HAWAII is a worthy homage to all who hold a special place for island life in their hearts.