Wagner is the first Hawai'i filmmaker to be included in Robert Redford's prestigious film festival. The festival kicks off Monday.

Wagner's 21-minute short film can be loosely categorized as a tragic comedy whose lead character — a Samoan chief, played by real-life Samoan Chief Sielu Avea — is on the run from his chiefly responsibilities following the sudden death of his young daughter. He flees to O'ahu where he works as a cabbie until his past catches up with him.

The film is written and directed by Wagner and produced by Dana Satler Hankins (who also produced "Picture Bride," which recieved the audience award at the 1995 Sundance Film Festival).

Master cinematographer Paul Atkins ("The Land Has Eyes," "Master and Commander") is the film's director of photography. Local filmmaker, actress and Showdown in Chinatown regular Christina Simpkins is the executive producer.