Film buffs know two things about indulging their movie passion in the Islands. First, it's hard to catch an art-house release here, given the multiplexes' habit of filling up with popular titles.

But second — a far happier reality — Hawai'i is blessed with a wonderful occasion that at least partially compensates for the daily dearth of cinematic creativity.

The 27th Louis Vuitton Hawaii International Film Festival is in full swing, and will continue to unreel screen gems through Sunday at the Hawaii Theatre, Regal Dole Cannery Stadium 18 and on Kaua'i, and through Oct. 31 on the Big Island.

HIFF was founded in 1981 under the wing of the East-West Center; the debut event screened seven films from six countries for 5,000 people. Now the event has an audience of 65,000. This year, 200 films are being shown, representing 40 countries.

Some of the thrill arises from off-screen sideshows: Chinese film star Joan Chen turned up for Sunday's screening of "The Home Song Stories," in which she plays a Shanghai club singer. Visitors might catch other VIPs at tomorrow's awards ceremony or the daily Cafe Chats at Dole.

But the centerpiece attraction remains the films themselves. Isle musician Eddie Kamae showcased his new Lahaina documentary. And attendees got a rare, advance look at the much-anticipated rendering of "The Kite Runner," the bestselling novel about Afghan boyhood friends.

Whatever your personal film fascination, HIFF is an invaluable, annual opportunity that shouldn't be passed up, even if it's to see just one film.