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Northwest Asian American Film Fest * Call for Entries * (Deadline: Dec 5, 2008)

nwaaff — Mon, 27 Oct 2008 16:52:13 GMT

Please distribute widely.

thanks!

Northwest Asian American Film Festival
---

Mark your calendars!
The next Northwest Asian American Film Festival takes place February 26-March 1, 2009

Call for Entries

Northwest Asian American Film Festival is now accepting entries for films on subjects related to the Asian Pacific American experience. Along with screenings of curated and selected works from the Pacific Northwest and North America, the four-day film festival will offer a variety of social events and programs relating to Asian American media.

Submission Format: DVD or URL link (to YouTube, Google Video etc.)
Genres: Short; Experimental; Documentary; Narrative
Screening Format: 35mm; 16mm; mini DV; DVD
Deadline: December 5, 2008

INSTRUCTIONS FOR SUBMISSION:

1) Complete and send the entry form to NWAAFF 2009 (form is available on our web site www.nwaaff.org)
• By email to info@nwaaff.org
• By mail to 1463 E. Republican St. #106, Seattle, WA 98112

2) Send your film to NWAAFF 2009:
• DVD sent by mail to NWAAFF, 1463 E. Republican St. #106, Seattle, WA 98112. Please indicate the film's title and contact information on the tape/disc.
OR
• As a URL where your film can be viewed online (e.g. YouTube, Google Video, etc.).

Please do not include additional promotional materials.

DEADLINES: Mailed entries must be postmarked and electronic entries must be sent no later than December 5, 2008. Receipt of entries will be confirmed via email. Final selections will be announced in late December/early January.

ENTRY FEE: There is no entry fee for this year's festival.

Questions? Email info@nwaaff.org

--
Northwest Asian American Film Festival 2009
1463 E. Republican St. #106
Seattle, WA 98112
Email: info@nwaaff.org
Web Site: http://twww.nwaaff.org
MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/nwaaff
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Seattle-WA/Northwest-Asian-American-Film-Festival-Seattle-WA/8338821821
Join mailing list: subscribe@nwaaff.org

posted in Asian American Film - 0 replies

To live?

John — Thu, 22 Nov 2007 09:13:44 GMT

I just watched "To Live".

The movie was very sad, and I pondered at the end if doing what *seems* necessary to stay alive in a totalitarian society is really living, or just enduring. There seemed to be a subtle fear that underlies all the post-revolutionary conversations of the couple who are the main characters. They *live* by never standing up, by making concessions and sublimating their conscience to what is *necessary* to remain alive. I am certain the director toned down the reactions of the movies characters to the injustices which occur throughout the film, to accommodate the Chinese government. As a result, I was left wondering whether the couple subtly despise their actions *to live* by repeating to each other past mistakes (which led to personal tragedy) or see the life of their grandchild -- the hope in a future generation for a better life as a sort of redemption -- as justification for the compromises they made . Or perhaps both.

Any answers?

posted in Asian American Film - 0 replies

Asian-Americans in hip-hop, my documentary idea

Le4Life — Wed, 14 Nov 2007 01:41:46 GMT

Thoughts and feedback welcomed for this documentary idea I've had for a while....

http://people.tribe.net/le4life/blog/c735cc0b-249f-4f9a-936c-ba7e63edd7a0

another documentary I want to write and direct someday is one on Asian-Americans in hip hop. In honor of that, here are some of the artists who are contributing to the movement, with links to pics. Read more info at my myspace blog...
http://blog.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=blog.view&friendID=116932167&blogID=230602282&Mytoken=E7CA7B56-C9D5-45F7-8E889865FE15193512761076

The Invisible Skratch Piklz, pioneers of the team battle and winners (3 yrs in a row in the early 1990's) of the World DMC's. Member Qbert has long been regarded as the best scratch artist on earth, and Mix Master Mike became the DJ for the Beastie Boys. They disbanded in 2000 and are all working separately now. Qbert recently invented the QFO, a single turntable/mixer instrument.
http://www.djtimes.com/original/djmag/may00/images/F1-b.JPG
http://www.hiphopslam.com/news/g/022/phot_Qbert-QFO.jpg

Tyra from Saigon: composer, pianist, guitarist, and scratch DJ, one of the many fine ladies featured on Femaleswitfunk.com
http://www.femaleswitfunk.com/fwf2/bioimages/tfs.jpg

DJ Mike Relm. If you're ever lucky enough to catch him on tour, you'll be treated to some synchronized music and cinematic montage. The fuker sets up a live system where he has edited footage (mostly from random films) that he can manipulate when scratching his vinyl.
http://www.sfgate.com/c/pictures/2005/12/04/lv_clubland20c_at.jpg

Kid Koala, scratch DJ and downtempo producer. I just had to include him cuz I don't know many artists (much less Asian-American ones) who do his style of music.
http://image.listen.com/img/356x237/4/0/7/6/506704_356x237.jpg

Mike Shinoda got his claim to fame with Linkin Park, but then went on to form his own hip hop band Fort Minor, whose debut album featured a track about his Japanese-American family's internment during World War II.
http://www.rafu.com/images/mike_shinoda_2.jpg

Lyrics Born, MC from Berkeley/Oakland (hooray!!!) who has worked with artists and producers such as DJ Shadow.
http://media.musictoday.com/store/bands/926/product_medium/IVCD118.jpg

Native Guns = two MC's and one DJ. In addition to their collaborative album, they also do a lot of community and youth work. And they're in Oakland, yaaayyy!!!
http://i42.photobucket.com/albums/e349/beatrock/c74d0ee5.jpg

Chad Hugo is one half of The Neptunes and one third of N.E.R.D. He produced his first song (Rump Shaker) with Pharrell Williams when they were both 18.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/collective/dnaimages/040319/nerd.jpg

If Solow is part of the Southern Cali-based crew featured in Hypen Magazine and the documentary Rize, then he must be a member of The Rice Track, one of the few (if not only) groups of Asians in the underground dance scene known as krumping.
http://www.krumpkings.com/images/bio/solow.gif

Several years back, Jin made his television debut on BET 106 & Park's Freestyle Friday competition and ended up beating seven consecutive challengers, becoming the show's longest running champion. He then got signed onto the Ruff Ryders label but his debut album flopped. He has been releasing albums with other labels since and continuing to win MC battles all over the world.
http://bookweb.kinokuniya.co.jp/vlimgdata/4562134332762.jpg

I don't know if these fools are actually with any record label, but if you find any of their albums or songs online (I'm sure they have a Myspace) you might get quite a laugh. Three Chinamen from NYC rapping about the perils of being Asian in America.
http://www.escapist.net/receptacle/images/notoriousmsg.jpg

The Far East Movement, sort of like Notorious MSG but not as much absurdity and they're probably more attractive too. Passionate lyrics about what it means to be Asian-American. They got their first track deal by being on the soundtrack for Fast & the Furious 3: Tokyo Drift.
http://www.theplatform2006.com/photo/random/GROUP1.jpg

Miss Info, radio personality and host who got into an argument on the air with her fellow DJ's at Hot 97 in NYC. The station had recently released a song poking fun at the tsunami disaster which had just struck Southeast Asia. Apparently, she was the only one there who thought the song was too racist and insensitive.
http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c286/silentkilla_911/Miss.jpg

Jeff Chang, Berkeley graduate and hip hop author/editor. One of his recent books Can't Stop Won't Stop has been hailed as the best scholastic/literary work on this music culture.
http://mcc.studentaffairs.duke.edu/images/cantstop.gif
http://www.giantpeachnews.com/news/db/archives/jeff_chang.gif

posted in Asian American Film - 0 replies

Must Sees

nonogirl — Wed, 15 Feb 2006 22:38:37 GMT

Are there any "MUST SEES" for folks?

I can vouch for American Fusion, a romantic comedy about a dysfunctional, Chinese American family.

Of course, I also want to see James Shigeta live in the flesh after Crimson Kimono.

Any thing else folks highly recommend or are excited about?

posted in Asian American Film - 19 replies

Winners at the 24th SFIAAFF

gary — Fri, 24 Mar 2006 18:00:15 GMT

From Karen Larsen of Larsen Associates:

At last night's closing night festivities for the 24th San Francisco International Asian American Film Festival, the Festival awards were announced.

Last night closed the San Francisco portion of the Fest, but keep in mind that the Festival continues through the weekend at the Pacific Film Acrchive and the Camera Cinemas in San Jose.

Winners for this year's 24th San Francisco International Asian American Film Festival are:

Best Narrative Feature Award - PUNCHING AT THE SUN, directed by Tanuj Chopra

Special Jury Award for Best Narrative Feature - COLMA, directed by Richard Wong

Best Documentary Feature Award - ABDUCTION, directed by Chris Sheridan and Patty Kim

Special Jury Award for Best Documentary Feature - CHINESE RESTAURANTS: Latin Passions, directed by Cheuk Kwan

Audience Award for Best Narrative Feature (tie) - WATER, directed by Deepa Mehta

Audience Award for Best Narrative Feature (tie) - JOURNEY FROM THE FALL, directed by Ham Tran

Audience Award for Best Documentary Feature - SENTENCED HOME, directed by David Grabias and Nicole Newnham

posted in Asian American Film - 2 replies

AMC Van Ness announced as new venue of SFIAAFF 2007

Ravi — Sat, 16 Dec 2006 05:42:35 GMT

I hope I don't get in trouble for spilling the beans, but this just came across in a press release:

The next edition of the SFIAAFF will celebrate its 25th anniversary, and will feature a new location, AMC Van Ness Theatres, as its primary venue. The full program will be announced at a press conference on February 13, 2007.

What do you all think?

I know the Kabuki had it's share of problems, and it was always hard reading subtitles there, but I LOVED IT! I haven't been too fond of the AMC Van Ness the few times I've been there, and moreover, it really doesn't have the Asian American neighborhood vibe.

I hope this is temporary --- but who knows, maybe I'll love the Van Ness. Find One-ness at Van Ness...

posted in Asian American Film - 6 replies

TEARS OF THE BLACK TIGER

FilmFanSF — Wed, 10 Jan 2007 22:39:49 GMT

TEARS OF THE BLACK TIGER is back! Come see it in the Bay Area--

Engagement begins Friday, February 9, 2007
Landmark’s Lumiere Theatre, 1572 California St., San Francisco (415) 267-4893
Landmark’s Shattuck Cinemas, 2230 Shattuck Ave., Berkeley (510) 464-5980

Note that this movie is only playing for one week since it's one of our calendar films.

If you don't know what this movie is about, here is a short synopsis:
TEARS OF THE BLACK TIGER takes a journey back to a lost past – the heroic years of Thai genre cinema, when influences from Hollywood and everywhere else were subsumed into rollicking Thai melodramas for an audience of avid fans. Wisit Sasanatieng’s film is a brilliant pastiche of vanished themes, styles and characters, almost all of them easily recognizable as variants on the prototypes from other popular cinemas. But the film’s project is not simply nostalgic. Sasanatieng uses the tricks and tropes of film style from the 1960’s- iris shots, wipes, obvious back-projection – but combines them with a startling, modernist approach to color and storytelling. The result is not only unique in Thai cinema but also an entirely new way of looking at genre entertainment. TEARS OF THE BLACK TIGER offers nostalgia as future shock.

When Dum, a young peasant boy, falls in love with Rumpoey, the daughter of a wealthy family, they vow that, whatever happens, they will one day be together. When they meet again ten years later, their rekindled passion is thwarted by the murder of Dum’s father by outlaws and by Rumpoey’s betrothal to a smooth-talking police captain. Dum soon transforms himself into the gunslinging bandit, “Black Tiger,” in order to infiltrate the gang who murdered his father. Fate will reunite the lovers one more time, but will they be able to continue their romance? Or will tragedy strike again?

The film’s running time is 110 minutes; it is not rated.

Visit Landmark's website:
http://www.landmarktheatres.com

posted in Asian American Film - 0 replies

Cave Of The Yellow Dog

jb2unique — Thu, 26 Oct 2006 21:52:06 GMT

CAVE OF THE YELLOW DOG

A Mongolian nomad family find themselves in disagreement when the oldest daughter, Nansal, finds a dog and brings it home. Believing that it is responsible for attacking his sheep, her father refuses to allow her to keep it. When it’s time for the family to move on, Nansal must decide whether to defy her father and take her new friend with them. Oscar-nominated director Byambasuren’s follow up to the hugely successful THE STORY OF THE WEEPING CAMEL is a thought provoking mix of documentary and drama that tells the story of the age-old bond between man and dog, a bond which experiences a new twist through the eternal cycle of reincarnation in Mongolia.

playing in select cities
beginning
november 10th 2006

check local listings or visit the official site

http://www.caveoftheyellowdog.com

posted in Asian American Film - 0 replies

ImaginAsian will distribute Journey from the Fall

Steve — Tue, 24 Oct 2006 02:07:47 GMT

Through some kind of deal with the Weinsteins, which overall makes me just a little bit nervous. But I'm looking forward to seeing it out there.

http://www.variety.com/index.asp?layout=print_story&articleid=VR1117952007&categoryid=19

(thanks to AngryAsianMan)

posted in Asian American Film - 0 replies

Taiwan Film Festival starts Sept 29

brad — Tue, 26 Sep 2006 20:09:41 GMT

http://2006tff.blogspot.com/

posted in Asian American Film - 0 replies

What's going on with Journey from the Fall distribution?

Steve — Mon, 25 Sep 2006 01:07:02 GMT

I assume this movie's going to get a solid arthouse release. Does anyone know any dates or companies?

posted in Asian American Film - 0 replies

"Desperately Seeking Shah Rukh" -- my very silly movie :)

videowallah — Wed, 26 Jul 2006 09:09:30 GMT

Last month in London I met a white American woman who impersonates a Bollywood star onstage. We heard he was in town as well, so we "stalked" him one afternoon. The end result is this:

http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=-839861326041149625

:)

posted in Asian American Film - 0 replies

Colma: The Musical on SFGate

Steve — Mon, 19 Jun 2006 19:32:51 GMT

There's a whole article on the movie at SFGate. Check it out:

http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2006/06/19/DDGUGJFMLB1.DTL&type=movies

posted in Asian American Film - 3 replies

72 Hour Film Shootout

Chris — Tue, 06 Jun 2006 07:00:25 GMT

still not too late to register...

72 Hour Film Shootout

June 9 - 12, 2006 Nationwide

The 72 Hour Film Shootout is a nationwide competition where filmmaking teams have 72 hours to write, shoot, edit and produce short digital films up to six minutes in length and based on a common theme. The intention of this competition is to create opportunities for Asian Americans to demonstrate their talent, gain exposure in the entertainment industry, and impact the visibility of Asian American stories and characters in film and television. At least one key production member and a principal actor from each team must be of Asian descent.

At the 2005 72 Hour Film Shootout competition, the launch party was attended by over 300 local filmmakers and their supporters. Over 51 registered teams around the nation (i.e. CA, NJ, NY, TX) spent the next three days intensively conceiving and creating their films. The top film had the opportunity to create a MTV World Promo. The top three films were awarded a one-on-one pitch session with MTV industry executives for new programming. The 15 finalists' films were screened at the 2005 NY Asian American International Film Festival, presented by Asian CineVision, in New York City.

On June 9th, 2006, at 8:00pm, the 3rd Annual 72 Hour Film Shootout will commence. The competition theme will be announced at the New York City launch party and simultaneously relayed over the internet to out of town competitors. This year, The Shootout anticipates 75 to 100 teams with an average of five people per team (a total of 375 to 500 participants). In addition, over 300 attendees are expected at each of The Shootout events (Launch Party, Wrap Party, After Party, Screening) not including the countless numbers of spirited supporters and enthusiasts.

REGISTRATION DEADLINES:

* Regular June 2
* Late June 8.

For more information: http://www.aafilmlab.com

posted in Asian American Film - 0 replies

FREE SNEAK SCREENING - FAST AND FURIOUS 3 - June 14 - SF

Chris — Mon, 05 Jun 2006 04:27:50 GMT

THE FAST AND THE FURIOUS: TOKYO DRIFT

The Center for Asian American Media and Universal Pictures invite you and a guest to attend a Special Sneak Preview screening of THE FAST AND THE FURIOUS: TOKYO DRIFT, from director Justin Lin (BETTER LUCK TOMORROW, ANNAPOLIS). An American street racer gets caught up in the underground world of drift racing on the streets of Tokyo. Screening followed by Q&A with star SUNG KANG (BETTER LUCK TOMORROW, THE MOTEL).

Wednesday, June 14, 2006
7:30 pm
AMC Van Ness
1000 Van Ness Ave, San Francisco

In order to attend this event, YOU MUST RSVP to events@asianamericanmedia.org with "FAST AND THE FURIOUS" in the Subject heading and the number in your party. Please note: YOUR RSVP IS REQUIRED TO ATTEND, BUT DOES NOT GUARANTEE ADMISSION TO THE SCREENING. SEATING IS FIRST COME, FIRST SERVED. THE SCREENING WILL BE OVERBOOKED. PLEASE ARRIVE EARLY.

Regular engagement begins Friday, June 16, 2006 in theatres nationwide.

posted in Asian American Film - 0 replies

FREE SNEAK SCREENING - CAVITE - June 6, 2006 - SF

Chris — Mon, 05 Jun 2006 04:26:21 GMT

CAVITE

2005 SFIAAFF Special Jury Award Winner, Narrative category

The Center for Asian American Media and Landmark Theatres invite you and a guest to attend a Special Sneak Preview screening of CAVITE, followed by Q&A with directors Neill Dela Llana and Ian Gamazon.

Tuesday, June 6, 2006
7:30 pm
Embarcadero Center Cinema
1 Embarcadero Center, Promenade Level, San Francisco

In order to attend this event, you must RSVP to events@asianamericanmedia.org with "CAVITE" in the Subject heading and the number in your party. Please note: YOUR RSVP IS REQUIRED TO ATTEND, BUT DOES NOT GUARANTEE ADMISSION TO THE SCREENING. SEATING IS FIRST COME, FIRST SERVED. THE SCREENING WILL BE OVERBOOKED. PLEASE ARRIVE EARLY.

Winner of the Independent Spirit's "Someone to Watch Award" and recently screened at the prestigious New Directors/New Films festival, CAVITE is a brilliantly resourceful suspense thriller that follows a young Filipino-American back to his native country. Upon his arrival, an anonymous cell phone call by an unseen Muslim extremist forces him to undertake a torturous labyrinthine journey to save the lives of his family.

Bay Area public engagement begins Friday, June 16, 2006 at these theatres:

* Landmark's Lumiere Theatre, 1572 California Ave, San Francisco (415) 267-4893
* Landmark's Shattuck Cinemas, 2230 Shattuck Ave, Berkeley (510) 464-5980

posted in Asian American Film - 0 replies

Chili Film Festival (UK) seeks shorts!

videowallah — Sat, 27 May 2006 14:58:22 GMT

As part of the Brick Lane Festival in London on Sept. 10, the Chili Film Festival will be showcasing the best in independent filmmaking. Like a spicy chili that gets your mouth tingling, we want you, the filmmakers, to set people's hearts and minds on fire!

Just as the chili travelled to the UK and changed the cuisine, people from all over the world have made Britain what it is today. The theme for the first festival is 'JOURNEY'. It can be as specific as an immigrant's tale, or as general as a neighborhood's development over the years. It can include comedies about someone's journey to work, documentaries about journeys into crime, dramas about the journeys and trials of love, animations, music videos -- if you feel that your film represents a journey, we want to see it!

The films will be shown free at a new cinema (richmix.org.uk) and will be part of a multicultural one-day event (bricklanefestival.com).

Films should be no longer than 30 minutes and submitted in DVD format by Monday the 17th of July to:

Chili Film Festival
PO BOX 42885
London N19 4WY

info@chilifilmfestival.com

p.s.: the reason I'm posting this on an Asian American group is because we are particularly interested in South Asian diaspora films (Brick Lane is the Bangladeshi area of town) -- but we also just want a fun, global day of film. :)

posted in Asian American Film - 0 replies

THE SLANTED SCREEN AT THE ROXIE FILM CENTER - MAY 19-25

Kathy — Tue, 02 May 2006 22:56:09 GMT

Fresh from two-sold premieres at the SF International
Asian American film festival, Jeff Adachi’s new film,
“The Slanted Screen,” opens for a one-week run at the
Roxie Theater in San Francisco on May 19-25, 2006.
The 60-minute film, which chronicles the experiences
of actors who have had to struggle against ethnic
stereotyping and limiting roles. The film presents a
critical examination of Hollywood’s image-making
machine, through a fascinating parade of 50 film clips
spanning a century. Winner of the Best Short
Documentary award at the NY International Independent
Film & Video film festival, the Slanted Screen “brings
into focus the most dangerous aspect of prejudice.”
(The Evening Class Review)

“Highest recommendation … the Slanted Screen hits all
its marks.” --- SF Chronicle

“Compelling social reality.” --- Asian Week

“Well-researched study of how Asian American men have
been stereotyped."
--- SF Bay Guardian

The Slanted Screen plays at the Roxie Theater, 3117
16th Street (at Valencia)
Opening Night Friday, May 19, 2006, 8:00pm (one show
only)
Followed by Q&A w/ Director Jeff Adachi
May 20-25 – Three shows daily 6:30, 8:00 and 9:30pm

Tickets: $8 general admission; $5 seniors; $4 matinee
seating.

Sponsored by the Center for Asian American Media,
Asian Week & the SF Bay Guardian.

For more information, visit www.slantedscreen.com
To buy tickets now, go to www.roxie.com

posted in Asian American Film - 0 replies

Interview with the Colma guys

Steve — Mon, 01 May 2006 04:50:08 GMT

H.P. and Rich from "Colma: The Musical" did a little interview for my website. They had some fun stories to tell:

http://www.globality.org/film/interviews/qa_colma1.html

For Colma completists, I hope to get more of a full transcript up later on.

Steve

posted in Asian American Film - 0 replies

NY Times article on diasporic film

brad — Sat, 29 Apr 2006 20:28:09 GMT

By the estimable Dennis Lim:

http://www.nytimes.com/2006/04/30/movies/30lim.html

One Chi-hui Yang is quoted as saying: "People are realizing that it can't just be about identity... Issues of immigration and assimilation are getting more complicated, and you're finding more in-between kinds of experiences — filmmakers who are mixed race or born and raised in another country."

posted in Asian American Film - 0 replies

DHAMAAL 7 YEAR ANNIVERSARY SAT 4.29 @ Club Six

Maneesh_Twister — Thu, 27 Apr 2006 22:00:32 GMT

Over the last seven years, the Dhamaal crew has created cutting edge music, video, art and events that tap into the rich culture of South Asia, while creating a future-forward style all their own. The crew has won numerous awards including SF's "Best of Bay" twice, been broadcast all over the world from John Peel's BBC Radio 1 show to NPR, has released albums in the US, Japan & India, and has produced three month-long festivals and several massive club events at Club Six and 1015 Folsom, making Dhamaal events the largest and longest running showcase of South Asian infused electronica events in the world! Also Dhamaal recently started it's weekly radio show on ImaginAsian Network which broadcasts worldwide every Friday from 10am-12noon PST at www.imaginasianradio.com/dhamaal/

On April 29th Dhamaal celebrates Seven years of the most unique club experience in the country, with a patented blend of bangin’ bass heavy breaks, drum’n’bass, dub, ragga, bhangra, live South Asian folk & classical, tabla, emcees, and wicked visuals.

Dhamaal welcomes internationally renowned producer and dj Cheb i Sabbah (Six Degrees) and dhol champion Mitch Hyare. Also Maneesh the Twister & Kush Arora will perform a live laptop/dj hybrid dub set. Expect world bass, beats and breaks with a ragga touch from djs Janaka Selekta & Maneesh the Twister, plus a special bhangra breakbeat set by guest dj Jimmy Love of Non Stop Bhangra. Also on hand will be Senegalese sensation Samba Guisse on the mic, Dhamaal’s stellar video DJs Skip Intro and El Diablo, and live tabla accompaniment by Shabi Farooq & Ferhan Qureshi. There will also be special guests Riffat Sultana (daughter of Salamat Ali Khan), featuring Shiraz Ali Khan (guitar) and Ferhan (tabla) who will perform live South Asian classical, qawalli, & folk music in the Azaad lounge. As always Dhamaal transforms the venue with fine art paintings by NYoMI to create space like no other!

Dhamaal expands to 3 Rooms of Bangin Bass Heavy Breaks, Bhangra, D’n’B, S. Asian Folk & Classical, plus live Tabla & MC!

Dark Room
Very Special Guest Cheb i Sabbah (Six Degrees) +
Mitch Hyare (Dhol Champion)
Maneesh the Twister & Kush Arora (live laptop/dj set)

Surya Vault
World Bass, Beats and Breaks
Janaka Selekta & Maneesh the Twister
Special Guest DJ Jimmy Love (Non Stop Bhangra)
Samba Guisse on the Mic
Video DJs Skip Intro (Farewell Performance) and El Diablo & Ohashu
Shabi & Ferhan on Tabla

Azaad lounge
Live South Asian Classical & Folk Music featuring Special Guests
Riffat Sultana & party featuring Shiraz Ali Khan (guitar) and Ferhan (tabla)

Fine Art by NYoMI
Flyer Design by Kai-wen

Club Six
Saturday, April 29th, 2006
60 6th St b/w Mission & Market
$10 adv w/flyer or printout at www.dhamaalsf.com/Dhamaal7y...ntTix.pdf/ $15 door
21 + : 9:30pm-3:30am
info@dhamaalsf.com
www.dhamaalsf.com
Also catch Janaka & Maneesh on DJ Push's www.FutureBreaks.FM show this Sat afternoon from 4-5pm on KUSF 90.1FM or worldwide at www.kusf.org

Yes Folks, all this wouldn't have been possible without you so please come and celebrate with us, relive old memories, or turn on newbies to the Dhamaal sound!

peace&vibes
Dhamaal crew!

posted in Asian American Film - 0 replies

Citizen Dog

Karen — Sat, 18 Mar 2006 21:20:50 GMT

Did anyone else here just LOVE that movie!?
I just wish there was Q&A afterwards, I would have had so many questions. I'm assuming there weren't any filmmakers present though.

posted in Asian American Film - 16 replies

CONVENTIONEERS wins top award at Florida

Taro — Thu, 06 Apr 2006 22:50:54 GMT

Mora Mi-Ok Stephens' CONVENTIONEERS wins the Grand Jury Prize for Best Narrative Feature at the Florida Film Festival:

http://www.floridafilmfestival.com/

posted in Asian American Film - 0 replies

COLMA: THE MUSICAL WORLD PREMIERE AFTER-PARTY!!!

Rich — Sat, 18 Mar 2006 16:55:31 GMT

Hey all, I know I'm new here, but please allow me and H.P. to invite you all to...THE COLMA: THE MUSICAL WORLD PREMIERE AFTER-PARTY!!! It will take place after the screening of the film at the DOT Bar and Lounge @ the Miyako hotel - roughly 11:30pm to 2am (come on you insomniacs). Come help us celebrate with drinks, people, conversation and, of course, the music. And hey, we are at a bar, I'm thinking "Goodbye, Stupid" Live....kind of like Sesame Street Live...except no puppets.

Hope to see you all there!

Rich

posted in Asian American Film - 27 replies

AMERICANese review from Roger Ebert

Taro — Sun, 02 Apr 2006 03:39:00 GMT

http://rogerebert.suntimes.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20060330/REVIEWS/603300302/1023

posted in Asian American Film - 0 replies

SFIFF schedule up

brad — Fri, 31 Mar 2006 05:17:04 GMT

Peruse the International Film Fest schedule at

http://fest06.sffs.org/

The lineup includes many Asian movies I've been waiting to see, including HHH's Three Times, Tsai Ming-Liang's The Wayward Cloud, and Seijun Suzuki's Princess Raccoon.

posted in Asian American Film - 1 reply

Eve and the Fire Horse

H.P. — Tue, 21 Mar 2006 11:35:45 GMT

This is one smart, funny, poignant, provocative film. The acting all across the board (loved the mother) was superb. The writing was absolutely amazing. It's the kind of movie that shows how much heart went into it. It doesn't hurt that it has a huge amount of brains to it, too. Ballotwise, it has to be the biggest '5' I've ever torn, and anyone who doesn't concur will find their nipples twisted off by yours truly.

Anyone else see it?

posted in Asian American Film - 7 replies

What are your predictions for Audience / Jury awards?

mikanboy — Thu, 23 Mar 2006 16:38:42 GMT

I obviously didnt see all the movies in the festival, so these are pure speculation. But what is a message board without speculation? Based on what you saw, reply with your picks.

Asian-American/Canadian Features
http://www.asianamericanfilmfestival.org/films/aa_can_features.php

Audience Award: Colma: The Musical
Jury Award: Eve and the Firehorse

Documentaries
http://www.asianamericanfilmfestival.org/films/documentary_features.php

Audience: China Blue
Jury: Burnt Theater

International Showcase
http://www.asianamericanfilmfestival.org/films/international_films.php

Audience: Citizen Dog / Linda Linda Linda
Jury: Water

posted in Asian American Film - 6 replies

thoughts on the Festival

Joyce — Mon, 27 Mar 2006 19:03:17 GMT

Congrats on attending the 24th San Francisco International Asian American Film Festival! Now that it's over, and y'all have had some time to decompress/process, would love to get people's thoughts:

-Favorite films?
-Favorite events/parties?
-Favorite/most exciting moments?
-Did anything surprise you?
-Things you loved/things that could be improved for next year?
-How is the tribe working for you? Did you find it to be useful? Anything that would make it more useful?

Finally, just a reminder: this is the Asian American Film tribe, so everyone should feel welcome to continue using this tribe as a place to discuss Asian American film in general, not just a particular Asian American Film Festival. We also have over 800 photos on flickr now; so check 'em out! If you have some, please upload yours to www.flickr.com and tag them with "sfiaaff2006". Check out all the photos at http://www.flickr.com/photos/tags/sfiaaff2006.

Also, if you missed anything at the Festival, check out the daily recaps at www.asianamericanfilmfestival.org/outtakes.

posted in Asian American Film - 0 replies

mystery arcade

amir — Tue, 21 Mar 2006 09:12:35 GMT

since i unfortunately missed my screening of "my break ups into a million pieces" at the Mystery Arcade shorts program on Sun, did anyone here check it out. i will be in town Wed-Fri i believe to check out the second screening on Thurs, so let me know if anyone is planning on going to that. the film goes on to play at the Chicago Asian American FF in a few weeks then the VC FF in my home town of Los Angeles in May...i can thank Abe F. for that one..

posted in Asian American Film - 3 replies

Mystery Arcade: "Astronaut"

Richard — Sat, 25 Mar 2006 23:54:11 GMT

Hi, my name is Richard, I played Yunchen in "Astronaut" of "Mystery Arcade". I'm also one of the soundtrack composers and action choreographer for this film. I would like to know the feedback from this film, particularly about my personal acting skill, and the quality of the song I composed, and the fight scene I choreographed. Since I'm stuck in Vancouver, it's too bad that I couldn't go and watch my first film. But if anybody has ever seen "Astronaut", tell me about how you feel about this film. Thank you very much!!

posted in Asian American Film - 0 replies

3/24 - 3/25: Heroic Grace series at Pacific Film Archive (Berkeley)

Joyce — Sat, 25 Mar 2006 00:41:48 GMT

Has anyone seen/is going to see the HEROIC GRACE SERIES: PART II at the Pacific Film Archive in Berkeley? Four films are screening in Berkeley tonight (3/24) and 3/25. Also, there is one more screening of CAFE LUMIERE at PFA on Saturda y 3/25 at 4:45 pm.

The films are:
CLANS OF INTRIGUE, THE BOXER FROM SHANTUNG, DIRTY HO, and KING BOXER.
http://www.asianamericanfilmfestival.org/films/tributes.php

Also, the SF Chronicle mentioned the films as one of their picks for this week:
http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2006/03/23/NSGKPHRF6D1.DTL&hw=heroic+grace&sn=002&sc=883

posted in Asian American Film - 0 replies

Final Stretch, SFIAAFF 3/24 - 3/26: San Jose screenings

Joyce — Sat, 25 Mar 2006 00:35:53 GMT

This is the final weekend of the SFIAAFF, happening in San Jose.

San Jose's Opening Night is SOLD OUT, and is RUSH ONLY.

What other films are folks seeing?

The two San Jose exclusives are VC DIGITAL SLAM: BEST OF 2003-2005 (featuring super short films by filmmakers like Justin Lin, Greg Pak, Robert Nakamura, Rea Tajiri and Tanuj Chopra. Bay Area artists who have participated include Matthew Abaya, Loni Ding, Felicia Lowe, Debbie Lum, Spencer Nakasako, Michael Siv and Valerie Soe.
http://www.asianamericanfilmfestival.org/films/film_detail.php?i=119

The other is A VIEW FROM TOPAZ, which has gotten a lot of interest -- it has rare footage that was secretly shot in the desolate Topaz, Utah internment camp during World War II.
http://www.asianamericanfilmfestival.org/films/film_detail.php?i=4

SAN JOSE Schedule:
Friday, March 24th OPENING NIGHT FILM
7pm Punching at the Sun

Saturday, March 25th
12pm A View from Topaz: An Undercover Look at an American Concentration Camp
2pm The Jounrey of Vaan Nguyen
4pm Punchcards and Preoccupations (Shorts program)
5pm Red Doors
6:45pm Only The Brave
9:15pm Rules of Dating

Sunday, March 26th
12pm Dear Pyongyang
2:15pm VC Digital Slam: Best of 2003-5
4:30pm Kieu
5pm Gaijin2: Love Me As I Am
6:45pm 3rd I South Asian Shorts 2006
9:15pm American Fusion

posted in Asian American Film - 0 replies

tix for closing night reception only?

Amy — Wed, 22 Mar 2006 23:56:18 GMT

Is it possible to get into only the reception on closing night? Scheduling conflicts prevent me from watching the closing movie, but I wanna know who wins the awards (and get a chance to hang out with you fine people some more). If it involves paying the full $35, I may skip out (sorry, I'm cheap).

posted in Asian American Film - 3 replies

Rush Only

Ben — Wed, 22 Mar 2006 21:11:45 GMT

Does anyone know how many tix are held for "Rush Only" when online sales are full? Have you been able to get seats?

How early have you had to get there?

There are still some films I want to see, but don't have tickets yet!

posted in Asian American Film - 2 replies

Colma: The Musical! The Premiere!

mikanboy — Wed, 22 Mar 2006 19:29:21 GMT

Okay, who was at the premiere last night?

First of all: I have never, ever seen so many people having a that much fun in theater #1 at the Kabuki. What a blast. The house was completely full, and they announced that there were 70 people in the rush line. Does anyone know if they all got in?

Then, the movie itself: this is a movie made with a lot of love and heart, and it oozes from every frame. The songs are catchy and funny and the story flows. What I found interesting is that it is not a hugely plot driven story, but more of a character development piece. But instead of the sometimes gloomy indie aesthetic, we see right inside these character's via their music. And it's all a lot of fun.

I was really impressed by the visual presentation of the movie. It's fun to watch--there are plenty of great camera angles, one exceptionally long take, and some dual-camera scenes. The choreography is uneven in places but mostly great.

Three segments the filmmakers should really be proud of: the house party (Crash the Party), the bar scene (Stupid), and the opening (Colma Stays).

Anyway, I loved it. Congratulations. I hope a lot more people have the chance to see this.

Also see: momo posted a <a href="http://www.hyphenmagazine.com/blog/archives/2006/03/colma_the_music.html#more">blog entry about</a> Colma the musical on the Hyphen blog.

posted in Asian American Film - 4 replies

american fusion tix?

steve — Wed, 22 Mar 2006 17:41:58 GMT

Anyone have any extra tix?

posted in Asian American Film - 2 replies

Slanted Screen

nakamuradavek — Wed, 22 Mar 2006 17:38:31 GMT

Just saw the 2nd screening of Jeff Adachi's "The Slanted Screen" last night. I thought it was pretty good. The interview with Frank Chin was particularly entertaining.

It appears that Adachi will try to get the film more future screenings. The website is here:

www.slantedscreen.com

posted in Asian American Film - 1 reply

new post about

momo — Wed, 22 Mar 2006 08:59:41 GMT

Colma: The Musical here:

http://www.hyphenmagazine.com/blog/archives/2006/03/colma_the_music.html#more

~ Momo

posted in Asian American Film - 0 replies

Welcome! Introduce yourselves!

gary — Thu, 23 Feb 2006 19:30:47 GMT

We had a bunch of new folks join recently, so I thought I'd ask them (and everyone else) to introduce themselves.

I might as well start with me.

My name's Gary, and I've been a big fan of the Festival for as long as I've been in the Bay Area, which is 2002, when Better Luck Tomorrow came out. I also run MANJA, which promotes Asian American arts in the San Francisco Bay Area.

I'm most looking forward to seeing Eric Byler's Americanese, based off of Shawn Wong's American Knees novel. I had read American Knees when it came out over a decade ago, and thought Eric was a great match for the film.

Finally, I also work here at tribe, so if you have any questions about how this place works, let me know!

posted in Asian American Film - 37 replies

SFIAAFF 2006 photos!

Joyce — Sun, 19 Mar 2006 00:10:45 GMT

Check out SFIAAFF 2006 photos thus far:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/tags/sfiaaff2006/

If you've got photos, please upload to www.flickr.com and tag your photos with the tag "sfiaaff2006", and yours will show up on this page too!

Let me know if you have any questions about using flickr.

posted in Asian American Film - 2 replies

SFIAAFF limited screening question

nakamuradavek — Thu, 02 Mar 2006 18:47:01 GMT

(forwarded from Taro Goto):

Dave:

As one of the organizers of the SFIAAFF, I wanted to respond to your question.

Like most festivals, we screen all films once, twice or three times, never more. This is due partly to the fact that, logistically speaking, that's all we can fit into an 11-day event. It's also because many of these filmmakers are hoping to secure (or have already secured) theatrical distribution, and if a film is to open commercially at some point, filmmakers and distributors want to limit how many people see it at the festival, fearing that there's a finite audience for independent or foreign films, and that if too many people see it at the festival, it'll cut into box office revenues upon its release. They look to festivals to help generate buzz for the films.

As for why many of the films in the festival often don't get distribution, the reality is that it's an extremely saturated market for independent and foreign films today, and only a limited number of films (Asian American or otherwise) get picked up. Asian American films face an especially diffcult battle, because many distributors feel that the audience for these films are too small to make any profit. To a certain extent, the distributors are correct, because the great majority of Asian Americans often choose to see Hollywood pictures rather than vote with their money by seeing an Asian American film upon its release.

The way to help the situation is by helping to spread the word about this (and other) festivals and about the films, encouraging others to go see the films. If we can demonstrate that there's a big audience for these films, then it's more likely that distributors will take a chance on them.

We're trying to do our part in producing the best possible showcase for Asian American films and to develop an audience for them. But we need the support of Asian American film fans like yourself to spread the word.

Please let me know if I misunderstood your question.

Taro Goto
Assistant Festival Director
San Francisco International Asian American Film Festival

posted in Asian American Film - 17 replies

hyphen blog

momo — Mon, 20 Mar 2006 19:42:52 GMT

about SFIAAFF here:

www.hyphenmagazine.com/blog/archives/sfiaaff

more to come.

xoxo
Momo

posted in Asian American Film - 0 replies

Opening Weekend Highlights

gary — Mon, 20 Mar 2006 17:06:47 GMT

So, I made it out to Opening Night, and got to see Americanese, but I had to jet down to LA on Friday for my brother's wedding. Thus, I missed out on most of the Festivities.

My Festival highlights for the weekend so far are:
(in no particular order)
1. Seeing the new Festival trailer, powered by one of my favorite bands, SCRABBEL ( www.scrabbel.org )
2. Seeing Americanese
3. Hanging out with Sab Shimono
4. Meeting the Red Doors and COLMA folks
5. Hanging out with Angry Asian Man

What's your top 5?
(and is anyone going to the Festival Happy Hour tonite? (5pm)

posted in Asian American Film - 0 replies

Recommendation to avoid: RULES OF DATING

brad — Sat, 18 Mar 2006 09:48:38 GMT

Let me first express my admiration for the programmers, since this is the first feature I've had to walk out on in three years of attending the festival: it was too morally inept and too generally ugly. If you'd like to see a movie about hetero relationships in Asia today, please let me recommend instead the colorful and crowd-pleasing CITIZEN DOG. It has talking toys and plastic mountains and it's still more plausible than RULES OF DATING.

At least I got a free T-shirt. Thanks, TigerCinema.com!

posted in Asian American Film - 3 replies

dumbest question in the tribe

Ben — Sat, 18 Mar 2006 21:09:00 GMT

What's up with the 'scuba steve' film fest mascot?

Don't get me wrong, I really like him, but that's also because I love scuba diving.

How'd he come to be?

Bonus Q: Anyone else notice the leg knife?

posted in Asian American Film - 2 replies

Shorts programs - your experiences; and recommendations for this year?

mikanboy — Sat, 04 Mar 2006 16:12:38 GMT

Hi.

pengrin was asking about shorts programs [in this thread: http://asianamericanfilm.tribe.net/thread/085a727b-4b8a-4b53-b6ef-069636f30b72] . I also am considering a shorts program or two this year, but with the array of choices, it's hard to decide.

I usually am drawn more to the full length features, but maybe it's time to change my approach. I'd love to hear from people who have seen the shorts programs in the past. What did you enjoy about seeing a shorts program? What was the best short you ever saw (at this festival or elsewhere)?

And I'd also like to hear recommendations for this years program. Thanks!

posted in Asian American Film - 7 replies

Rave+Recommend: Rules of Dating

Ben — Sat, 18 Mar 2006 21:05:44 GMT

Saw Rules of Dating at the Castro on 3-17.

Complex movie with characters confused between their own emotional scars, needs, moral ambiguity, and love. S. Korea's rigid hierarchical and Confucian society is present in every scene, but may be unfamiliar to some viewers.

I thought the characters were true to life in dealing with their issues, and Gang was particularly emotionally compelling as Choi.

While it is true that both Choi and Lee are operating with comprimised moral compasses, at times to a degree that is disturbing and hurtful to both them and others, the film is ultimately hopeful. Amidst the pain and flawed Lee, she has a profoundly redemptive experience that brings a sense of wholeness.

Totally worth seeing.

posted in Asian American Film - 0 replies

Anybody want to meet up for a film?

doow — Wed, 15 Mar 2006 04:05:41 GMT

I thought this film festival would be a great way for those of us with similar interests to meet up and get to know each other! Right now, I'm thinking about seeing "Rules of Dating" on Friday night, and "Water" on Sunday night.

Let me know if you guys have any ideas!

posted in Asian American Film - 2 replies

KARATE KID 2 audience participation idea....

Michael — Tue, 14 Mar 2006 07:04:17 GMT

So I watched Karate Kid 2 when I was just a small little Korean kid who took Tae Kwon Do ( I quit because it seemed like they were adding more and more black stripes to advance to the next color belt, and they kept adding new florescent and pastel color belts... does anyone feel me on this? I can't look all hard with a bright pink and yellow belt? PSHH).

I used to have the little drum the audience all had during the last fight scene. you know, the one with the two small balls that hit the face of the drum when you twirl it. I don't know where it went or where I bought it but that little drum was DOPE! (maybe my dad threw it away cause it probably was really annoying)

Anyways, i was thinking (or more like brainstorming with the festival staff - Taro, Chris, Theresa) what if everyone who has tickets to KARATE KID 2 go out and find these drums, so we can have audience participation during the final fight scene!!!!! How cool would it be if everyone in the audience was drumming along to the scene? It would feel like we are there!~ SNAPS!!~

So yea, what do you think about that? Tacky? Uncool? Lame? I don't care, If i find one of those drums, Im gonna beat the hell out of it during that final fight scene. It's one of those things where you tell your friends and they will say " you are such a dork."

WAX ON-aliscious!~
Michael

posted in Asian American Film - 6 replies

Wanted: tickets for Linda Linda Linda tonight in Berkeley (3/17)

connie — Fri, 17 Mar 2006 18:23:10 GMT

I'm looking for 2 and would be super happy and grateful for anyone who could spare them. I can pick up in SF during the day, or in Berkeley/Oakland in the evening.

Thanks!
connie
constance_hwong@yahoo.com

posted in Asian American Film - 0 replies

SFGate Article

gary — Thu, 16 Feb 2006 05:59:19 GMT

Looks like the press is starting to come in. Here's an SFGate Article:

http://sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2006/02/15/DDGL9H7U5T1.DTL&type=movies

posted in Asian American Film - 2 replies

WORLDLY : 1015 Folsom : March 24, 2006 : Huge Line Up

janaka — Thu, 16 Mar 2006 16:46:32 GMT

Hey All,

Its been a whole six months since we got together to do a WORLDLY.

Here is the webpage for full details
http://www.dhamaalsf.com/Worldly/worldly2006.htm

Main Room
Cheb i Sabbah & Mitch Hyare (Dhol Champion)
Karsh Kale Official Album Release Party
Janaka Selekta & MC Samba Dhamaal
Maneesh the Twister, Kush Arora & MC Daddy Frank Dhamaal

Video DJs Skip Intro and El Diablo Dhamaal

Main Stage Dance Performances
Boom Boom Bollywood, Dhol Rhythms, Belly Groove and Clandestine

Shabaz Live Lounge
Sukhawat Ali Khan & Riffat Sultana vocals
Shiraz Ali Khan Guitar
Ferhan Qureshi Tabla
Rami Ziadeh Middle Eastern Percussion
plus DJ Dragonfly and Giamma
World Breaks Room

RadioHiro & DJ Warp Kollektiv Chicago
David Starfire
Soulsalaam Hynomadic
Lady Ra and Tarun Beats without Borders
Amar with Soozhyq & Haven bansuri.net

Glory STGO Space Transformation
NYoMI Fine Art

You have to check out the brilliant video work of Skip Intro from the last show
http://www.dhamaalsf.com/Festival2006/Worldly2006.wmv

Spread the word - there are 10$ ticket left at groovetickets - the above webapage has all the info.

See you there,
Janaka

posted in Asian American Film - 0 replies

AMERICANese wins two at SXSW

Taro — Wed, 15 Mar 2006 04:31:58 GMT

Some exciting, breaking news.

Eric Byler's AMERICANese, the opening night film at the SFIAAFF, just picked up two awards at South By Southwest Film Festival in Austin. It won the narrative audience award and a special jury award for outstanding ensemble cast.

http://www.indiewire.com/ots/2006/03/bylers_american.html

Talk about momentum!

posted in Asian American Film - 1 reply

Asian American Film on APEX EXPRESS

gary — Wed, 15 Mar 2006 19:15:46 GMT

If you're not going to attend opening night, and you'll be near a radio, check out APEX EXPRESS on KPFA 94.1 in SF:

Apex Express: Asian Pacific Islander radio....catch it
Thursdays 7PM-8PM, KPFA 94.1 FM, KFCF Fresno, www.kpfa.org (on-line listening; past programs)
Thurs. March 16: Womens' strength and sacrifice are stories told in tandem using the Vietnamese classic tale of Kieu and lives of Asian women in the life. Diane Ng - writer of "Kieu" - talks about this film as part of our coverage of the SF International Asian American film festival. Also, Richard Wong, director of "Colma, the Musical" and Mark Decena, director of "The Light" talk about their shorts. And Jeff Adachi, SF public defender, finds time to direct "Slanted Screen" - about Asian actors that have broken barriers in film and yet looks at how barriers still persist. The film fest also includes a night of "Directions in Sound" with DJs, MC's and much more: www.asianamericanfilmfestival.org for more info...Plus, host Pratap Chatterjee talks with prisoner activist Eddie Zheng, paroled by Schwartznegger, but now awaiting deportation by the feds. Plus music, calendar and more... Contacts: www.apexexpress.org; Apex's hip-hop show: www.myspace.com/apexexpress , 510-848-6767x464, apex@kpfa.org.

posted in Asian American Film - 0 replies

Where to eat during the Festival?

gary — Sat, 25 Feb 2006 23:44:15 GMT

Without fail, I find that every year, there's the question of where to eat around Japantown before/after/in-between films.

For a relatively quick and easy meal, I usually like to hit up Suzu, a ramen joint in the mall downstairs from Sophie's crepes, and next to the pasta pomodoro.

What are your favorites?

posted in Asian American Film - 15 replies

Kieu is already sold out! ARGH!

mikanboy — Thu, 02 Mar 2006 23:19:29 GMT

Man, I can't believe Kieu is already sold out for Sunday afternoon March 19th! (As is The Slanted Screen).

Any chance of getting one of those moved to Auditorium 1, and doubling the other in Kabuki 3&4?

I am heading to the Kabuki to buy tickets today, and I ... am incredulous that I'm going to miss this. I could do the rush line but then I'd have to forfeit Letter to an Unknown Woman before it....

Help!

posted in Asian American Film - 10 replies

Vietnamese Films - SF Int'l Asian American Film Festival

Joyce — Sun, 26 Feb 2006 16:18:33 GMT

The Vietnamese films tell varied and interesting stories about the Vietnamese experience, from being set in Vietnam, Israel, and the Tenderloin District in San Francisco. I look forward to hearing people's thoughts about the films!

In addition to films at the Festival, what other Vietnamese film projects are going on?

CLOSING NIGHT: JOURNEY FROM THE FALL
The first major American film to dramatize the traumatic aftermath of th eVietname War from a Vietnamese perspective, Ham Tran's feature-length debut delves into the stories of those left behind after the fall of Saigon. Both the screening and Closing Night Awards Gala will be at the Palace of Fine Arts.
http://www.asianamericanfilmfestival.org/films/film_detail.php?i=61

THE JOURNEY OF VAAN NGUYEN
The unheard story of Israel's Vietnamese refugee community told through the experiences of Hanmoi Nguyen, a man who fled Vietname to settle in Israel, and his daughter Vaan, a writer increasingly alienated from Israeli society, as they look for a sense of belonging.
http://www.asianamericanfilmfestival.org/films/film_detail.php?i=62

KIEU (shot and produced in San Francisco)
This beautifully visualized, tenderly passionate update of an epic Vietnamese national poem gives its heroine a 221st-century double life in San Francisco: keeping up a cheerful front for her family as she works in an "Oriental" massage parlor.
http://www.asianamericanfilmfestival.org/films/film_detail.php?i=66

posted in Asian American Film - 1 reply

Directions in Sound

nonogirl — Wed, 08 Mar 2006 20:35:41 GMT

How many people will Cafe DuNord hold? FMTM sold out Bottom of the Hill for their record release, and that holds about 300.

Do you think that there will be walk up tix available?

posted in Asian American Film - 5 replies

Tickets wanted for Slanted Screen on March 19th!

Ray — Fri, 10 Mar 2006 23:08:16 GMT

I'm looking to buy 4 tickets to the March 19th showing of the Slanted Screen! I will give you $60 for 4 tickets, a 50% premium!

Please shoot me an e-mail at sonbi74@hotmail.com

Thanks.

posted in Asian American Film - 0 replies

seating?

pengrin — Thu, 09 Mar 2006 15:56:48 GMT

Okay, since I'm all new to this scene and I want to prepare myself since I'm really not a crowd enthusiast. :)

Do you have to be there an hour before the show begins?

Are you guarenteed a seat when you buy the tickets or do they overbook?

Thanks!

posted in Asian American Film - 4 replies

Documentaries

Ravi — Thu, 16 Feb 2006 07:20:46 GMT

Just screened Journey of Vaan Nguyen - you will be spellbound by her lyrical, haunting, poetic voice chronicling dispossession, uprootedness, and the search for "home". These stories about separation and loss really know where your heart lives...

posted in Asian American Film - 4 replies

Qs from this newbie

pengrin — Sat, 04 Mar 2006 07:23:04 GMT

I'm new to the Film Fest and I wanted advice about buying tickets and the types of film recommendations.

I was thinking about seeing Rules of Dating at the Castro theater for $10. I'm also thinking about seeing the Short Programs for $10. I did notice some of the movies were showing it for $35 for example, Americanese. Can someone explain to me why there's a price difference? And would you advise to buy the tickets in advance?

Thanks!

posted in Asian American Film - 8 replies

Calling all filmmakers!

gary — Thu, 23 Feb 2006 19:31:24 GMT

Any filmmakers out there in the audience? Introduce yourselves and plug your programs!

posted in Asian American Film - 7 replies

CONVENTIONEERS wins Independent Spirit Award!

Chi-hui — Mon, 06 Mar 2006 07:02:47 GMT

Congratulations to Mora Mi-Ok Stephens, who on Saturday, won the John Cassavetes Award for best feature made for under $500,000 at the Independent Spirit Awards! This is a tremendous accomplishment, and much deserved. The next public screening of CONVENTIONEERS is at the SFIAAFF later this month. Don't miss this film, it's excellent.

Also, congratulations to Neill Dela Llana and Ian Gamazon, the co-directors of CAVITE, who won the "Someone To Watch" Award. CAVITE won a Special Jury Prize at last year's SFIAAFF.

posted in Asian American Film - 3 replies

punching at the sun screening & after party - fri the 17th

brent — Wed, 08 Mar 2006 23:08:20 GMT

hi all, a plug for my boy tanuj's film. check it out and then come to the after party benefit at 111 minna....

----------

Hello Bay Area peoples.

A very unique independent film titled PUNCHING AT THE SUN directed by
Tanuj Chopra is making it's west coast premiere on Friday March 17 at the Asian American Film Festival in San Francisco at 7:00 pm at the Kabuki 8. Shot entirely on the streets of Queens, NYC the film stars local teenagers from the community and just premiered at Sundance in January to cheering crowds. It's a film filled with humor, pain and politics and is the first feature by a new director with a fresh voice.

Following the premiere will be the WEST COAST PREMIERE AFTER-PARTY starting at 9:00 pm at 111 Minna. Beats will be laid down by Maneesh the Twister of the Dhamaal crew, Kush Arora and Marcella (Lady-Lu). The party is also featuring a very special live Bhangra dance performace by Dholrhythms. Admission is $10 or $5 with a stub from the movie and all proceeds go towards getting this movie out to the people in 2006. It's gonna be off the hook so come through and celebrate the spirit of independent film.

Check the link for the party flyer:

http://www.punchingatthesun.com/sfevents/

...and please circulate this email to your people in the bay.

peace and blessings,
Tom Rubio
associate producer

South Asian immigrant culture, post 9/11 politics, interracial relationships, violent streets, and the American firestorm of hip-hop culture all mix into a fierce concoction in Tanuj Chopra's vibrant and spirited first feature, Punching at the Sun. Elmhurst, Queens, is a rough place for Mameet Nayak, a beautiful 17-year-old South Asian immigrant with a passion for basketball and a hair-trigger temper. It gets rougher when his older brother, Sanjay, is gunned down in the family convenience store. The loss leaves Mameet in a complicated state of mourning and adolescent nihilism. His rage and antagonism toward the world make him a magnet for trouble. His friends, Ritesh and Parnay, are hilarious company, though not particularly encouraging in Mameet's attempts to rise above the negative forces in his life. But an adorable neighborhood sneaker salesgirl, Shawni, offers a light of hope in cracking Mameet's self-destructive shell. And inspiring rap performances by the charismatic MC Uncle Sonny conjure Mameet's ability to find a sense of optimism in a violent world that he feels is determined to view him as an outsider. Chopra draws passionate and genuine performances from his talented young cast, led by the gifted Misu Khan. Urgent and contemporary, Punching at the Sun sheds light on an American perspective rarely reflected on the screen, and glistens with the freshness and vital energy of a new directorial voice.

— Shari Frilot,
Sundance film festival

posted in Asian American Film - 2 replies

New Screenings Added!

Chris — Wed, 08 Mar 2006 23:24:23 GMT

New screenings of KIEU and SLANTED SCREEN just announced! Buy your tickets now!

Be sure to check our main page under Latest News (left sidebar) for all the latest updates.
www.asianamericanfilmfestival.org

KIEU
Monday 3/20
10pm
Kabuki 8 Theatres
http://asianamericanfilmfestival.org/films/film_detail.php?i=66

SLANTED SCREEN (Screening only, no panel)
Tuesday 3/21
10:15pm
Kabuki 8 Theatres
http://asianamericanfilmfestival.org/films/film_detail.php?i=104

posted in Asian American Film - 0 replies

Films of Spiritual Interest at the SFIAAFF

Ravi — Wed, 08 Mar 2006 10:27:44 GMT

Here are the films which I noted to be of particular Buddhist/Spiritual interest (if I've seen a press screening, I may have a comment attached to the film title):

TIBET RELATED:
Dreaming Lhasa:
http://www.asianamericanfilmfestival.org/films/film_detail.php?i=42
A new independent feature

Kekexili: Mountain Patrol:
http://www.asianamericanfilmfestival.org/films/film_detail.php?i=65
A BRILLIANT, SPECTACULAR film, winner of the Golden Horse in Taiwan's Film Fest.

BUDDHIST THEME
Red Doors:
http://www.asianamericanfilmfestival.org/films/film_detail.php?i=96
Great story, centered on familial and love relationships, but with an interesting Buddhist theme.

SPIRITUAL/RELIGIOUS
Water, by Deepa Mehta (Fire, Earth):
http://www.asianamericanfilmfestival.org/films/film_detail.php?i=127

Eve and the Fire Horse:
http://www.asianamericanfilmfestival.org/films/film_detail.php?i=44
This is a wonderful feature, a child's perspective on beliefs

Dastaar: Defending Sikh Identity:
http://www.asianamericanfilmfestival.org/films/film_detail.php?i=37
About post-9/11 anti-Sikh violence and discrimination

posted in Asian American Film - 0 replies

congrats ang lee!!!

theresa — Mon, 06 Mar 2006 05:04:31 GMT

woo hoo! ang lee! hooray!

whoa good going to crash, as well!
totally took me surprise as an academy pick - my dad and i were definitely rooting for it.
fyi: they used crash for diversity training at my dad's work for the city of fremont.

oh yeah, and big ups to three six mafia. i've always been a BIG fan. seriously. if anybody's seen "baby boy" (also featuring Taraji P. Henson, from Hustle & Flow), they have a couple of awesome tracks on that soundtrack, too.

any thoughts, eh?

cheers, theresa!

posted in Asian American Film - 2 replies

SFIAAFF 2006 Launch Party photos on flickr!

Joyce — Tue, 07 Mar 2006 10:14:08 GMT

Photos from the Feb 16 Launch Party at 111 Minna have been posted. Once the Festival gets underway, expect a lot more photos. With record attendance at the Launch Party, we got a lot of great photos, so check them out...you might see yourself!
http://www.flickr.com/groups/asianamericanfilmfestival/pool. To see all the photos related to SFIAAFF 2006, join the Asian American Film Festival group.

*CALLING ALL PHOTOGRAPHERS*
If anyone has taken photos at the SFIAAFF Launch Party in San Francisco, please upload them to www.flickr.com (a collaborative photo sharing website) and tag them with "sfiaaff2006".

As you all take photos during the Festival, please tag your public photos, and you'll be able to view all of them at:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/tags/sfiaaff2006

For those of you out of town, continue to check out the photos. Hopefully you'll be able to join us in San Francisco!

Thanks,
Joyce

posted in Asian American Film - 0 replies

AFF Dallas Call For Entries thru May 15

Mye — Mon, 06 Mar 2006 18:33:30 GMT

The largest Asian Film Fest in the Southwest wants your film.
www.affd.org for rules and entry forms.
:)

posted in Asian American Film - 0 replies

SAn Diego AFF Call for entries Apr 7 early deadline

Mye — Mon, 06 Mar 2006 18:26:38 GMT

The 7th Annual San Diego Asian Film Festival
Call for Entries going on now!
www.sdaff.org

posted in Asian American Film - 0 replies

FAQs

Chris — Wed, 01 Mar 2006 03:09:42 GMT

Q. One of the questions we get a lot regarding our Pat Morita tribute film Karate Kid 2, is "Why not Karate Kid 1?"

A. Yes, Morita was nominated for an Oscar for his performance in the original Karate Kid, but it's Part 2 that paints him as the central figure in the story, giving his character additional depth and backstory. Plus, after the opening sequence (which is just a long deleted scene from the first movie), the whole movie's filled with Asian and Asian American actors. And finally, how could we pass up the opportunity to play "Six Degrees to Tamlyn Tomita" (remember that Six Degrees to Kevin Bacon game?) - Tamlyn appears in four of our films this year - KARATE KID 2, ONLY THE BRAVE, GAIJIN 2, and PICTURE BRIDE! Incidentally, the late Nobu McCarthy (who plays Morita's old flame in KK2) appears with James Shigeta in WALK LIKE A DRAGON and Tamlyn in GAIJIN 2.

Q. I've heard that some of your staff had crushes on Tamlyn when KK2 first premiered - is that true?

A. Yes.

-Chris

posted in Asian American Film - 2 replies

SFIAAFF 2006 Mentioned on Yelp.com

Joyce — Thu, 02 Mar 2006 04:46:33 GMT

For more review/recommendations on must-sees, check out what people are saying on Yelp.com:
http://www.yelp.com/topic/kvgWkQyJWyQYcvlYgXemiw

posted in Asian American Film - 0 replies

Tanaka's BBC interview and article on Geisha

Tomoyuki — Wed, 01 Mar 2006 19:20:21 GMT

Hi,folks. Maybe I can talk to interested people at the SF film festival.
TT
http://www.geocities.jp/tanaka_usa/PCracismGeisha.htm

=== BBC interview (mp3 from Jan 2006) ===

Tanaka says: "I like the film, but I must say I _despise_ the novel." -- (at 5 min 40 sec)

http://www.savefile.com/files/7470384 (mp3, 16 min, 8 MB)
Tanaka interviewed on Geisha on BBC Radio
Aired Jan 12, 2006 (the day before the film's UK opening)

______________________________

1. A short article (600 words) in AsianWeek. Dec 29, 2005

http://news.asianweek.com/news/view_article.html?article_id=9a2c0cdf24846f77c68102736b6438f6&this_category_id=172

Memoirs from a JA Male (JA=Japanese-American)

(If the above link doesn't work, just go to the main page http://www.asianweek.com and search for "tomoyuki". You'll find two pieces written by me.)

______________________________

2. A longer article (6,000 words) in ejcjs, January 2006

(Electronic journal organized by researchers in the UK and elsewhere)

http://www.japanesestudies.org.uk/discussionpapers/2006/Tanaka.html

Politically correct racism and the Geisha novel
--- The psychology of sophisticated racism mirrors that of ethnic jokes.

Abstract:

In Section 1, politically correct racism (PC racism) is defined as an act with racist intent, justified by righteous appearance, with popularity or near-total acceptance because of its righteous appearance.

In Section 2, after presenting a theory of jokes based on analyses by Sigmund Freud and Marvin Minsky, I show that the pleasure one derives from PC racism is similar to that derived from ethnic jokes.

In Section 3, I point out the inaccuracies and prejudice contained in the novel "Memoirs of a Geisha" by comparing it with the Japanese version.
Based on the study by Anne Allison of the American reception of the novel, I explain its surprising popularity using PC racism.
Pleasures of romanticized subjugation and pleasures of hating the Japanese are made acceptable by the politically-correct appearance.

Finally in Section 4, I characterize the geisha film as a watered-down version with the novel's most racist elements removed.

posted in Asian American Film - 0 replies

Spotlight on James Shigeta - San Francisco International Asian American Film Festival

Joyce — Sun, 26 Feb 2006 16:41:19 GMT

This Festival celebrates and delves into the role of the Asian American male in film, particularly as it relates to sexuality. The "Spotlight on James Shigeta" includes THE CRIMSON KIMONO, the film in which Shigeta finds himself in a love triangle with his white detective partner and a woman embroiled in their murder investigation. A revolutionary film both for the exploration of racism and its romance between an Asian man and a Caucasian woman.

Shigeta will be in attendance at the screening, and this film is followed by an on-stage conversation between Shigeta and filmmaker Arthur Dong.

BRIDGE TO THE SUN is another story about interracial love: it is the true story of a woman from Tennessee who married a Japanese diplomat before World War II and followed him to Japan after the attack on Pearl Harbor.

From the director of SHOGUN, WALK LIKE A DRAGON stars Shigeta as a Chinese immigrant who is caught in a love triangle with a Chinese woman (Nobu McCarthy) and a tough cowboy.

It's great to see stories about Asian American men that are ahead of their time. It will be interesting to hear Shigeta's perspective on how things were back then.

posted in Asian American Film - 0 replies

Music News: Souls of Mischief and opener KERO ONE!!!! FEB 23 @ Agenda Lounge, SAN JOSE

Michael — Thu, 23 Feb 2006 23:08:09 GMT

Hello everyone,

This is a music related post, but I think it has some relevance since KERO ONE, who will be performing at Sound in Directions on Saturday, March 18, is the opener for the infamous SOULS OF MISCHIEF!!! Kero One just released his debut album, Windmills of the Soul, Feb 07, 2006. It has a really laid back jazzy type feel. It's also doing really well overseas in Japan.

Where: Agenda Lounge, http://www.agendalounge.com/

Come check it out,

I'll see you there......

Michael

posted in Asian American Film - 3 replies

Clans of Intrigue (chu liuxiang)

Amy — Fri, 24 Feb 2006 02:03:23 GMT

http://www.asianamericanfilmfestival.org/films/film_detail.php?i=30

I can't blieve it....this is such a blast from the past.

posted in Asian American Film - 1 reply

Music Videos

gary — Thu, 23 Feb 2006 19:34:37 GMT

I saw a number of these videos in last year's Music Video Asia program:

http://www.kidheroes.net/bootlegvisuals/
(via http://angryasianman.com)

I think my fave of the bunch might be Evan Leong's video for the Ill Again song, Next.

posted in Asian American Film - 0 replies

A new AA film fest in Eugene!

Taro — Sat, 18 Feb 2006 21:35:09 GMT

Check out this brand new Asian American film fest:

DisOrient Asian American Film Festival 2006 - Eugene, Oregon
http://www.disorientfilm.org/

* Includes an interview with Lane Nishikawa, director of ONLY THE BRAVE.

Anyone know exactly how many Asian American film festivals there are in this country? (Oh, let's include Canada, too, actually.) With student-run festivals popping up all over the place, must be well over 20, I'm guessing...

Taro

posted in Asian American Film - 2 replies

SLANT CALL FOR ENTRIES - March 3 Deadline

Melissa — Tue, 21 Feb 2006 19:33:10 GMT

SLANT FILM FESTIVAL 2006

--- Call for Entries ---

WHAT: the 6th annual Slant: Bold Asian American Images festival

WHEN: June 3-4, 2006

WHERE: The Aurora Picture Show, Houston

DEADLINE: Postmark by March 3, 2006

Slant, an annual short film festival seeks works by Asian American filmmakers. For the sixth year, Slant will showcase an eclectic mix of the best in emerging Asian American cinema. We’re looking for a great story, a good laugh, and evocative emotion. All genres are accepted.

The Aurora Picture Show is a nonprofit microcinema dedicated to showing non-commercial film, video, and new media. Housed in a converted church building built in1924, Aurora’s primary interest is curating high quality group programs that give exposure to emerging artists and new works.

For All the Details: http://www.hyphenmagazine.com/events/slant06.php

posted in Asian American Film - 1 reply

Launch Party

Ayumi — Fri, 17 Feb 2006 02:22:55 GMT

Hi everybody, I am Ayumi, one of the interns for the festival.
We are having a launch party tonight from 9pm to midnight!
Is anybody coming??
I am pretty excited about the party and looking forward to meeting all of you guys.
If you are bored tonight, sitting in front of the computer screen right now, 111 Minna is the place to go!
Hopefully, see you there in a few hours!!!

Ayumi

posted in Asian American Film - 5 replies

got my festival program

mikanboy — Mon, 13 Feb 2006 22:56:44 GMT

in the mail last friday. got to look at it over brunch on Saturday.

wow! I gotta say, that I am pretty excited about this year's festival. there seem to be a lot of great USA/Canada films in the narrative competition, and the documentaries and int'l showcase are also strong.

although I just gotta say that making me choose between Colma: the musical and Karate Kid Part II is just wrong.

so many choices!

phil

posted in Asian American Film - 3 replies