{"id":63797,"date":"2024-04-04T17:23:08","date_gmt":"2024-04-05T00:23:08","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/lapost.us\/?p=63797"},"modified":"2024-04-04T17:23:08","modified_gmt":"2024-04-05T00:23:08","slug":"visual-communications-celebrates-40-edition-of-film-festival","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/lapost.us\/?p=63797","title":{"rendered":"VISUAL COMMUNICATIONS CELEBRATES 40 EDITION OF FILM FESTIVAL"},"content":{"rendered":"<p dir=\"ltr\" style=\"text-align: center;\"><strong>VC Film Fest Announces Lineup of Asian, Black, Latine\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\" style=\"text-align: center;\"><strong>and Native Hawaiian &amp; Pacific Islander Storytelling<\/strong><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">\n<p dir=\"ltr\" style=\"text-align: center;\"><strong>Film Fest Celebrates 40 Years With Main Focus On VC Archives<\/strong><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">\n<p dir=\"ltr\" style=\"text-align: center;\"><strong>World Premieres of Yi Chen\u2019s DISSIDENTS;\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\" style=\"text-align: center;\"><strong>Quy\u00ean Nguyen-Le, Tadashi Nakamura\u2019s\u00a0NOBUKO MIYAMOTO: A SONG IN MOVEMENT;\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\" style=\"text-align: center;\"><strong>Jeff Man\u2019s PAPER MARRIAGE;\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\" style=\"text-align: center;\"><strong>Alexander Bocchieri\u2019s SHAKA: THE STORY OF ALOHA And More<\/strong><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">\n<p dir=\"ltr\" style=\"text-align: center;\"><strong>LA Premiere Of Iram Parveen Bilal\u2019s\u00a0WAKHRI<\/strong><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">\n<p dir=\"ltr\" style=\"text-align: center;\"><strong>West Coast Premiere of Uyghur film NIKAH, Directed By\u00a0Mukaddas Mijit &amp; Bastien Ehouzan<\/strong><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">\n<p dir=\"ltr\" style=\"text-align: center;\"><strong>North American Premiere Of Aizhan Kassymbek\u2019s MADINA<\/strong><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">\n<p dir=\"ltr\" style=\"text-align: center;\"><strong>Democracy Series To Feature LA Premieres Ramona Diaz\u2019s AND SO IT BEGINS,\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\" style=\"text-align: center;\"><strong>Vanessa Hope\u2019s INVISIBLE NATION And More<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\"><strong>(April 4, 2024) Los Angeles, CA<\/strong> &#8211; Visual Communications (VC),\u00a0\u00a0the first non-profit organization in the US dedicated to the honest and accurate portrayals of Asian, Native Hawaiian &amp; Pacific Islander communities through media arts announced the lineup for VC FILM FEST &#8211; the 40th edition of their film festival, formerly known as the Los Angeles Asian Pacific Film Festival (LAAPFF).\u00a0\u00a0Set to open on\u00a0May 1st,\u00a0VC FILM FEST will center the storytelling power from Asian, Native Hawaiian &amp; Pacific Islander communities, and will encourage audiences to activate that power into action at home and action with organizations that serve\u00a0Black, Indigenous, and additional people of color.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">VC FILM FEST, produced annually by Visual Communications, will present over 150 films during the 10 day festival. The festival will be anchored in Little Tokyo, as a way to build regenerative power in the Arts District\/Little Tokyo neighborhood; with\u00a0 in-person events at Aratani Theatre @ Japanese American Cultural &amp; Community Center (JACCC), Japanese American National Museum (JANM), and the Union Center for the Arts. Additionally, the VC FILM FEST will bring programming to the Art Theatre of Long Beach;; closing out the festival with films that center Black, Southeast Asian and Pasifika stories.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">\u201cVC Film Fest honors our beloved elder cultural workers and their solidarity work, linking them to present and emerging artists who continue to empower our communities and challenge perspectives.\u201d said Francis Cullado, Visual Communications Executive Director.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">LA STORYTELLERS<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">As one of the most diverse cities in California, Los Angeles has many unique storytelling threads that connect the communities. Honoring that legacy, VC FILM FEST will present films that reflect some of the diverse talent\u00a0 in LA, with films including:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li dir=\"ltr\">\n<p dir=\"ltr\" role=\"presentation\">The world premiere of NOBUKO MIYAMOTO: A SONG IN MOVEMENT: Directed by Quy\u00ean Nguyen-Le, Tadashi Nakamura this feature documentary is a sweeping tale that follows the life of visionary artist-activist Nobuko Miyamoto. Born and raised in Los Angeles, Nobuko\u2019s cultural impact stretched across both coasts of the nation and her work that changed Asian America forever.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li dir=\"ltr\">\n<p dir=\"ltr\" role=\"presentation\">CRUISIN\u2019 J-TOWN: Produced in 1975 and directed by Duane Kubo, one of VC\u2019s founders, this documentary explores the roots of the popular jazz fusion band Hiroshima and connects them to the era of pre-redevelopment Little Tokyo. Select group members discuss the sociological and cultural pulse of the early 1970s. Dan Kuramoto describes the political movements of the 1960s out of which Asian American music emerged, while June Kuramoto relates being ridiculed in her youth for playing the Japanese koto. Percussionist Johnny Mori delves into the influence of African American, Latino, and rock \u2018n roll music on his art. The film goes beyond a mere profile of a band to investigate the core and influences of Asian American music.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">VC ARCHIVES<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Home to the VC Archives, of the largest photographic and moving image archives on Asian Pacific experiences in America, VC designed this year\u2019s festival to honor the archives and VC\u2019s practice of documenting Asian American and Pacific Islander communities in California and beyond. In doing so,\u00a0 VC Fest will present a slate of films, to celebrate that legacy, including:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li dir=\"ltr\">\n<p dir=\"ltr\" role=\"presentation\">STAND UP FOR JUSTICE : A Production of Visual Communications and Nikkei for Civil Rights &amp; Redress STAND UP FOR JUSTICE, directed by John Esaki, presents the story of Ralph Lazo, a 17-year-old Mexican American student at Belmont High School in Los Angeles who devises a remarkable plan to support his Japanese American friends confined at Manzanar concentration camp during World War II. After President Franklin D. Roosevelt signs Executive order 9066, Ralph witnesses the pain and humiliation of his Japanese American friends and their families, who are forced to sell their belongings and \u201cevacuate\u201d to a concentration camp in a remote California desert. Against the backdrop of the chaos when armed soldiers ordered tens of thousands of Japanese Americans to board trains and buses to unknown destinations, Ralph\u2019s response remains a rare act of friendship, loyalty and strong principles in a time of crisis.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li dir=\"ltr\">\n<p dir=\"ltr\" role=\"presentation\">PIECES OF A DREAM: Directed by Eddie Wong, one of Visual Communications\u2019 Founders, this lyrical documentary follows Immigrant farm laborers \u2014 Chinese, Japanese, and the Filipino manongs \u2014 who came to America through Angel Island to work the land. PIECES OF A DREAM tells the story of Asian Pacific American life and history on the Sacramento River delta. Their stories are told through a montage of voices from the past, adapted from Victor Nee and Brett de Bary\u2019s Longtime Californ\u2019. Delta life is captured in lush, pastel colors and presented with the music of jazz\/fusion band Hiroshima. A visit to the Locke Historic District, a town founded by Chinese immigrants shows viewers the sharp realities of the present: The crumbled wooden Chinatown looks like a quaint tourist landmark, but is revealed as low-income housing for the Delta\u2019s poor; a Japanese American farmer talks about the pressures of the large agribusiness on small farmers. Original format: Documentary, 16mm, color Following the short film program, presented on Opening Day, VC Founder Duane Kubo will join Eddie in a fireside chat, to discuss the power of community, the synergy of media-production and civil rights activism, and early days of Visual Communications.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">ARMED WITH A CAMERA<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">In continuation of VC\u2019s mission to\u00a0build connections between peoples and generations through\u00a0 film, video, and media,\u00a0VC FILM FEST will debut 24 works from VC\u2019s artist development programs: Digital Histories (DH), designed to encourage older adults to make films with their perspective; and the Armed With A Camera Fellowship, a program that cultivates\u00a0a rising generation of artists committed to social and political changes and movements, these storytellers are encouraged to empower communities and challenge perspectives through their creative works.\u00a0This year, the AWC world premieres center the perspectives of 6 creatives and their artistic response to selections from the VC Archives. The AWC 2023-2024 artist cohort is comprised of:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li dir=\"ltr\">\n<p dir=\"ltr\" role=\"presentation\">Alfred Bordallo is a CHamoru visual artist from Gu\u00e5han currently based in Los Angeles. His work focuses on recollecting and honoring the fragmented and, more importantly, repurposed facets of CHamoru identity through the analog mediums of photography and video. Bordallo\u2019s self-taught practice began in 2018 while attending the University of Southern California, and has since grown into editorial shoots for fashion and music, live-visual (VJ) sets accompanied with lo-fi hip-hop, and to video art installations that interrogate CHamoru identity within the context of indigeneity, diaspora, and imperialism.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li dir=\"ltr\">\n<p dir=\"ltr\" role=\"presentation\">Bryson Nihipali is a visual artist born and raised in Los Angeles with a passion for both photography and filmmaking. With ancestral ties to the Hawaiian and Philippine Islands, he draws much inspiration for his photographic work from his family and their rich cultural heritage. He is a current undergraduate studying Communication and Cinematic Arts at USC. As an aspiring filmmaker, he aims to focus on the indigenous diaspora and share his unique perspective with wider audiences. Embracing his diverse background and experiences, Bryson&#8217;s artistry reflects a deep connection to his roots and a drive to create impactful visual stories.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li dir=\"ltr\">\n<p dir=\"ltr\" role=\"presentation\">Honestine Pa&#8217;ala-Fraser is a writer and social media professional born and raised in the Los Angeles area. She graduated from CSU Long Beach with a BA in Communication Studies and went on to Syracuse University to receive her MS in Digital Communications. Her work can be found in publications like Teen Vogue, POPSUGAR, and HuffPost. She is passionate about storytelling and sharing the stories of the Pasifika community and is extremely excited to be a part of this year&#8217;s cohort!<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li dir=\"ltr\">\n<p dir=\"ltr\" role=\"presentation\">Kayli Kimura is a Japanese-American creative director, visual storyteller, and talent manager. Her work spans across various genres with a focus on non-fiction storytelling and musically-driven films. In addition to her directorial and cinematography work, Kayli worked in the camera department for a variety of commercials, TV shows, documentaries and music videos including projects for Netflix, Hulu, Food Network, PBS, The Metropolitan Museum of Art, and Telfar. Kayli is the creative director and manager for Queens, NY-born, Nigerian-American rapper, AKINYEMI. Kayli was born and raised in Boulder, CO and recently relocated to LA after living in NYC for almost 5 years. She graduated from Bowdoin College in Maine with majors in Sociology and Environmental Studies and a minor in Music.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li dir=\"ltr\">\n<p dir=\"ltr\" role=\"presentation\">Paula Kiley (she\/her) is a multimedia journalist and documentary filmmaker who strives to tell stories that connect and empower people with information, the truth, and most importantly \u2014 one another. She most recently worked on a feature documentary titled Body Parts, a Sundance-selected film that explores the evolution of desire and \u201csex\u201d on-screen from a female perspective \u2014 allowing women to reclaim the parts of themselves that have been objectified and exploited for decades. Paula received her BA in journalism and a minor in film at Cal State Long Beach and is currently a digital content coordinator at PBS SoCal where she produces arts and culture stories in the Greater Los Angeles area.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li dir=\"ltr\">\n<p dir=\"ltr\" role=\"presentation\">Zaynah Waseem is a graduate student at the University of Southern California pursuing her Master of Arts in Visual Anthropology. She received her Bachelor of Arts in Global Studies and Media &amp; Cultural Studies from the University of California, Riverside. As a Pakistani-American, her work uplifts the diverse stories of South Asian, Muslim communities through ethnographic film, media production, digital storytelling, and archival research. Having grown up in various communities across the world, Zaynah has a special interest in exploring themes like memory, belonging, diaspora, immigrant experiences, third culture identities, and migration. Her most recent project was with NPR\u2019s Next Gen Radio, through which she produced a non-narrated audio piece and a multimedia story. She is now working on her first documentary film as part of her master\u2019s thesis project.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">\u201cThe VC Archives are an unsung hero of LA storytelling. We\u2019re thrilled to center the archives in the fest this year. It has been inspiring to share the archives with the next generation of artists, and witness how their practice grows VC\u2019s legacy of community participatory media.\u201d said Jason Tiangco, Visual Communications Archives Steward.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">VC FILM FEST will feature over 150\u00a0films with: 37 World Premieres, 5 International Premieres, 11\u00a0 North American\/ United States Premieres, 24 West Coast Premieres and 37 Los Angeles Premieres. Highlights from the fest\u2019s robust feature film lineup, include:<\/p>\n<div dir=\"ltr\" align=\"left\">\n<table>\n<colgroup>\n<col width=\"677\" \/><\/colgroup>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Narrative Features and Documentary Features\u00a0will take us around the world: from the Uyghur Region, to Monterey Park to Pakistan and beyond. Some highlights, include:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li dir=\"ltr\">\n<p dir=\"ltr\" role=\"presentation\">World Premiere of HOME COURT: This documentary feature. Directed by Erica Tanamachi traces the ascent of Ashley Chea, a Cambodian American basketball prodigy whose life intensifies amid recruitment, injury, and triumph throughout her high school career.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li dir=\"ltr\">\n<p dir=\"ltr\" role=\"presentation\">JEWELLE: A JUST VISION, directed by Madeleine Lim, shines a hope-filled spotlight on the Lambda award-winning novelist, activist, and philanthropist, Jewelle Gomez, an Ioway\/Wampanoag Native American, and Cape Verdean\/Black lesbian Femme elder.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li dir=\"ltr\">\n<p dir=\"ltr\" role=\"presentation\">The North American Premiere of MADINA: Directed by Aizhan Kassymbek and starring Madina Akylbek, the narrative feature, starring Madina Akylbek, tells the story of a single mother&#8217;s day-to-day routine in a harsh Kazakhstan winter\u00a0 -a battle for survival with lack of confidence in the present and lack of hope in the future.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li dir=\"ltr\">\n<p dir=\"ltr\" role=\"presentation\">The West Coast Premiere of NIKAH, directed by Mukaddas Mijit Mijit, Bastien Ehouzan is a Narrative Feature, from the Uyghur Region, that follows a 27-year-old woman who is still single, and has to endure pressure from her family to get married. Her friend Gulnur, who lives in Paris and with whom she shares her daily life by phone, then offers her a solution.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li dir=\"ltr\">\n<p dir=\"ltr\" role=\"presentation\">World Premiere of PAPER MARRIAGE: Written and directed by Jeff Man, with The Duplass Brothers as Executive Producers, this feature narrative follows a young professional seeking an U.S. green card enlists the help of a directionless slacker to stage a marriage. The two strangers have less than a year to convince everyone, including themselves, that they are a real couple.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li dir=\"ltr\">\n<p dir=\"ltr\" role=\"presentation\">World Premiere of SHAKA, A STORY OF ALOHA: Directed by Alexander Bocchieri, this feature documentary invites you on a global journey, from a temple in Japan to surf breaks in Brazil and the white sandy shores of Hawai&#8217;i, to discover the Shaka hand sign\u02bbs origin, meanings and why it\u02bbs the secret to paradise.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li dir=\"ltr\">\n<p dir=\"ltr\" role=\"presentation\">The LA Premiere of WAKHRI: Written and directed by Iram Parveen Bilal. This drama travels to Pakistan to follow a widowed school teacher who becomes a viral sensation overnight when she accidentally unleashes her unabashed opinions on social media. This newfound fame comes with its own challenges as she must navigate archaic mindsets and secret identities.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li dir=\"ltr\">\n<p dir=\"ltr\" role=\"presentation\">World Premiere of Risa Morimoto\u2019s WE CARE:\u00a0 The documentary feature follows four Asian American families \u2013 The Shahanes in Cedar Park TX, the Herrs in Los Angeles, the Simtumuangs in New Jersey, and the Woos in Hemet, CA as they share their personal experiences, struggles and self-discoveries caregiving for aging family members.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">DEMOCRACY SERIES:\u00a0\u00a0This year, more than 80 nations will hold elections; and the current political commentary grows more urgent by the day, as Democracy seems to slowly break down in governments around the globe. The Democracy Series will be a courageous space to reflect on Democracy from different nations, through films including:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li dir=\"ltr\">\n<p dir=\"ltr\" role=\"presentation\">World Premiere of DISSIDENTS: Directed by Yi Chen, the film follows an artist&#8217;s sculpture is burnt down, a protester is charged with a criminal case, and a democracy movement is violently attacked. Not even exile is safe.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li dir=\"ltr\">\n<p dir=\"ltr\" role=\"presentation\">LA Premiere of AND SO IT BEGINS: In a decades-long nonfiction saga of the Philippines, director Ramona Diaz presents the latest chapter on her homeland as the despotic reign of President Rodrigo Duterte is coming to an end. And So It Begins proffers unbridled access to all the key players in the months leading up to the country\u2019s 2022 presidential election. With her keen observational eye and deep knowledge of the socio-political history and landscape, Diaz continues to find her own forms of storytelling as political disruption.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li dir=\"ltr\">\n<p dir=\"ltr\" role=\"presentation\">LA Premiere of BREAKING THE CYCLE: This documentary feature, directed by Aekaphong Saransate, Thanakrit Duangmaneeporn, \u00a0captures the political awakening among Thais after the rise and fall of Thanatorn, a young politician who calls to end the cycle of coups d\u2019etat. The film explores the 2019 election in Thailand, which marked the end of five years of full military rule and a new group of young politicians who campaign against an authoritarian constitution, sparking hope and a once-in-a-generation youth movement.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li dir=\"ltr\">\n<p dir=\"ltr\" role=\"presentation\">LA Premiere of INVISIBLE NATION: With unprecedented access to Taiwan\u2019s sitting head of state, director Vanessa Hope investigates the election and tenure of Tsai Ing-wen, the first female president of Taiwan. Thorough, incisive and bristling with tension, Invisible Nation is a living account of Tsai\u2019s tightrope walk as she balances the hopes and dreams of her nation between the colossal geopolitical forces of the U.S. and China.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">PACIFIC CINEWAVES:\u00a0Pacific Cinewaves programming celebrates stories and storytellers emerging from Hawai\u2019i, Aotearoa (New Zealand), Gu\u00e5han (Guam), Rapa Nui (Easter Island), Samoa, and throughout the Pacific region. Film presentations include:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li dir=\"ltr\">\n<p dir=\"ltr\" role=\"presentation\">US Premiere of INKY PINKY PONKY (Dirs.: Ramon TeWake, Damon Fepuleai) Written by\u00a0 Amanaki Prescott-Faletau, this feature film paints a tale of High School crushes with the new arrival of the fakaleiti (2 Spirited) Lisa causes a stir, particularly with rugby captain Mose.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li dir=\"ltr\">\n<p dir=\"ltr\" role=\"presentation\">LA Premiere of K\u016aKINI (Dir. Mitchel Merrik) LA Premiere: Written by Paula Fuga, In 1790 Hawai\u02bbi, an elite warrior must leave his family behind when sent on a deadly mission to report on the bloody war waged by Kamehameha against Maui. When captured by the enemy, he is miraculously saved by someone who has a message for him of their own.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li dir=\"ltr\">\n<p dir=\"ltr\" role=\"presentation\">LA Premiere of LEA TUPU&#8217;ANGA \/ MOTHER TONGUE (Dir. Vea Mafile&#8217;o): Written by Luciane Buchanan, this short film follows a young speech therapist who is disconnected from her Tongan heritage and lies about her Tongan language skills to get a job. Out of her depth, she must find a way to communicate or risk her patient\u2019s life.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li dir=\"ltr\">\n<p dir=\"ltr\" role=\"presentation\">THE SHAUN NUA PROJECT (Jess Speight, Jake Zielenski): Pittsburgh Steelers Super Bowl champion and USC defensive line coach Shaun Nua returns to his home island of American Samoa to donate uniforms to every high school football team. This short documentary celebrates the enduring spirit of American Samoa and highlights Shaun&#8217;s profound impact on his community, drawing powerful parallels to his own upbringing and the lack of support for athletes on the island.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">OUR STORYTELLING POWER:\u00a0This short film program is curated from arts organizations that\u00a0 encourage community-centered filmmaking that begins with the community members as the lead creatives. Working with peers from the\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.colorcongressinitiative.org\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-saferedirecturl=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/url?q=https:\/\/www.colorcongressinitiative.org\/&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1712362593675000&amp;usg=AOvVaw1yeGYtgInqGkwEx4iQ3FBs\">Color Congress<\/a>\u00a0cohort and beyond, this documentary lineup will feature Asian, Black and Latine communities from New York, Philadelphia, Rio Grande Valley, and San Diego, and will embody a multicultural solidarity that amplifies the combined storytelling power that can impact all of our lives. Participating films and organizations include:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li dir=\"ltr\">\n<p dir=\"ltr\" role=\"presentation\">THE BOTANICAL GARDENS: AN URBAN OASIS: Produced with guidance from ENTRE FILM CENTER in Rio Grande Valley, TX, this short documentary features archival footage of the McAllen Nature Center and interviews with Jessica Tanguma and Angelina Vasquez, 2 former park employees.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li dir=\"ltr\">\n<p dir=\"ltr\" role=\"presentation\">THE GRASS ISN\u2019T ALWAYS GREENER: MIGRANTS IN THE WORKPLACE: Produced through EDUCATION VIDEO CENTER in New York, NY, this documentary explores the dangers of workplace exploitation among immigrant communities.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li dir=\"ltr\">\n<p dir=\"ltr\" role=\"presentation\">STAYING PUT: Produced by Philadelphia\u2019s Chinatown Community Development Corporation, with guidance from SCRIBE VIDEO CENTER\u2019S PRECIOUS PLACES COMMUNITY HISTORY PROJECT, the documentary traces voices from the 1960s to present day to chronicle Philadelphia Chinatown\u2019s history of community and resistance to external forces of development, gentrification, and erasure.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li dir=\"ltr\">\n<p dir=\"ltr\" role=\"presentation\">LA NUEVA FLOR: Directed by Emmanuel Enriquez, with guidance from PacArts Reel Voices, this documentary follows a San Diego family as they discuss their past, present, and future familial blooms.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/div>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Tickets go on sale April 15, 2024 For more information, please visit<a href=\"http:\/\/festival.vcmedia.org\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-saferedirecturl=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/url?q=http:\/\/festival.vcmedia.org\/&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1712362593675000&amp;usg=AOvVaw0sFyTpH0HSkU9mD51OOs2u\">\u00a0festival.vcmedia.org<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Stay tuned for forthcoming announcements regarding attending talent, special presentations, panel programming and more!<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">FESTIVAL LINEUP<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Special Presentation TBA<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">\n<p dir=\"ltr\">\u00a0Feature Documentary<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">ABOVE AND BELOW THE GROUND<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Myanmar, Thailand, United States, 2023<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Directed by: Emily Hong<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Produced by: Maggie Lemere, Ja Nang Tsen, Emily Hong<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Featuring: NA<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Synopsis: In Myanmar\u201a\u00c4\u00f4s first and only country-wide environmental movement, Indigenous punk rock pastors and women activists protect a sacred river from a Chinese-built megadam through protest, prayer, and Karaoke music videos.<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">West Coast Premiere<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Feature Documentary<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">AND SO IT BEGINS<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Philippines, US, 2024<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Directed by: Ramona S. Diaz<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Produced by: Ramona S. Diaz<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Featuring: n\/a<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Synopsis:<br \/>\nIn a decades-long nonfiction saga of the Philippines, director Ramona Diaz presents the latest chapter on her homeland as the despotic reign of President Rodrigo Duterte is coming to an end. And So It Begins proffers unbridled access to all the key players in the months leading up to the country\u201a\u00c4\u00f4s 2022 presidential election. With her keen observational eye and deep knowledge of the socio-political history and landscape, Diaz continues to find her own forms of storytelling as political disruption.<\/p>\n<p>Taking place in the thick of the Covid pandemic, And So It Begins is a shape-shifting story of the raucous collective act of joy expressed in a quirky resistance movement that pits itself against the haunting specter of increasing autocracy. Weaving together multiple narratives against the backdrop of a gloves-off campaign for the most powerful office in the land, what emerges is a dazzling cinematic portrait of a beleaguered nation fighting for its very soul.<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Los Angeles Premiere<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Feature Documentary<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">BREAKING THE CYCLE<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Thailand, 2024<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Directed by: Aekaphong Saransate, Thanakrit Duangmaneeporn<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Produced by: Tanwarat Sombatwattana, Komtouch Napattaloong<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Featuring: Thanathorn Juangroongruangkit, Pannika Wanich, Piyabutr Saengkanokkul, Panitaluck Manokhan, Yingcheep Atchanont, Kanokrat Lertchoosakul, Lalita Hanwong, Sulak Sivaraksa<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Synopsis: Breaking The Cycle captures the political awakening among Thais after the rise and fall of Thanathorn, a young politician who calls to end the cycle of coup d&#8217;etat in the 2019 election.<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">U.S. Premiere<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Feature Documentary<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">DISSIDENTS<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">United States, 2024<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Directed by: Yi Chen<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Produced by: Yi Chen<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Featuring: Juntao Wang, Weiming Chen, Chunyan Wang<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Synopsis: An artist&#8217;s sculpture is burnt down, a protestor is charged with a criminal case, and a democracy movement is violently attacked. Not even exile is safe.<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">World Premiere<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Feature Documentary<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">H\u014cK\u016aLE\u02bbA: :FINDING THE LANGUAGE OF THE NAVIGATOR<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">United States, 2023<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Directed by: Ty Sanga<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Produced by: Ann Botticelli, Heather Giugni, Sonja Rogers<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Featuring: Nainoa Thompson, Wade Davis<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Synopsis: Renowned navigator Nainoa Thompson and Wade Davis examine the mysteries of traditional wayfinding.<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">West Coast Premiere<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Feature Narrative<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">INKY PINKY PONKY &#8211; THE ODD ONE OUT<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">NEW ZEALAND, 2022<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Directed by: DAMON FEPULEA&#8217;I, RAMON TE WAKE<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Produced by: Elizabeth Koroivulaono, Hope Papali&#8217;i<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Featuring: Amanaki Prescott- Faletau, JP Foliake, Sesilia Pusiake, Bianca Seinafo<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Synopsis: A new fakaleiti student at St Valentines High causes a stir, as rugby players, gender fluidity, Island mums and transphobia converge in this high school romance like no other.<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">U.S. Premiere<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Feature Documentary<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">JEWELLE: A JUST VISION<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">United States, 2022<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Directed by: Madeleine Lim<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Produced by: Madeleine Lim<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Featuring: Ajuan Mance, professor of African American literature; Brian Freeman, playwright and co-founder of Afro Pomo Homos; Cheryl Clarke, poet and former Rutgers University professor; Crystal Jang, co-founder of Asian Pacific Islander Queer Women and Transgender Community; Denise DeJean, friend; Diane Sabin, beloved spouse; Dorothy Allison, author of Bastard Out of Carolina; Jennifer DeVere Brody, Stanford University professor of Theater &amp; Performance Studies; Katherine Acey, Executive Director Emerita of the Astraea Lesbian Foundation for Justice; Kim Shuck, San Francisco Poet Laureate and Cherokee artist; Nancy Bereano, founder of Firebrand Books; Phillip LeClaire, brother; Troy Rockett, artist and actor<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Synopsis: From Black Power in late-60s Boston, to AIDS activism in mid-80s New York, to Marriage Equality in early-10s San Francisco,JEWELLE: A Just Vision, shines a hope-filled spotlight on the Lambda award-winning novelist, activist, and philanthropist, Jewelle Gomez, an Ioway\/Wampanoag Native American, and Cape Verdean\/Black lesbian Femme elder.<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">\n<p dir=\"ltr\">\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Feature Narrative<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">NIKAH<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">China, France, 2024<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Directed by: Mukaddas Mijit, Bastien Ehouzan<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Synopsis: 2017, Uyghur Region. Dilber, a 27-year-old woman who is still single, has to endure pressure from her family to get married. Her friend Gulnur, who lives in Paris and with whom she shares her daily life by phone, then offers her a solution.<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">West Coast Premiere<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Feature Documentary<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">NOWHERE NEAR<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">USA, Philippines, 2023<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Directed by: Miko Revereza<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Produced by: Shireen Seno<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Featuring: Pedro Revereza II, Aurora Fernandez Revereza, Paul Revereza, Jet Revereza, Jovito Gutierrez, Lourdes Gutierrez, Geraldine Inigo, Matthew Revereza, Matthew So, Kristian Henson, Joseph Revereza, PJ Bautista, Sincero Bautista, Helen Aquino Bautista, Salvamar Bautista, Nora Ramos, Kuya Ming &amp; Family, Carolina Fusilier<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Synopsis: A poetic memoir through the lens of a stateless person returning to an estranged homeland.<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">\n<p dir=\"ltr\">\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Feature Narrative<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">SALLI<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Taiwan, Mandarin, English, French, 2024<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Directed by: Chien-Hung Lien<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Produced by: Amanda Manyin Reinert, Uilin Ong<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Featuring: Esther Liu, Austin Lin, Ying Hung Lee, Li Yin Yang, Yung Hsu Tang<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Synopsis: An online romance with a foreigner takes a lonely middle-aged chicken farmer to an unknown land. Despite everyone saying it is a romance scam, she wants to prove that her love indeed exists.<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">U.S. Premiere<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Feature Narrative<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">SMOKING TIGERS<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">USA, 2023<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Directed by: So Young Shelly Yo<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Produced by: Guo Guo<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Featuring: Ji-young Yoo, Joon Ho Jung, Abin Andrews, Erin Choi<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Synopsis: over one summer spent at an elite academic bootcamp, a lonely korean-american teenager hides her true identity to fit in with her new friends, only to discover the bittersweet pains of adulthood.<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Los Angeles Premiere<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Feature Narrative<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">WAKHRI<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Pakistan, USA, 2024<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Directed by: Iram Parveen Bilal<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Produced by: Abid Aziz Merchant, Apoorva Bakshi, Iram Parveen Bilal<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Featuring: Faryal Mehmood, Gulshan Majeed, Shees Sajjad Gul, Akbar Islam, Bakhtawar Mazhar, Sohail Sameer, Saleem Meraj, Tooba Siddiqui<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Synopsis: A widowed school teacher becomes a viral senasation overnight when she accidentally unleashes her unabashed opinions on social media. This newfound fame comes with its own challenges as she must navigate archaic mindsets and secret identities.<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Los Angeles Premiere<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Short Film<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">120,000 LUMENS<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">U.S.A., 2024<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Directed by: Scott Oshima<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Produced by: Scott Oshima<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Synopsis: &#8220;120,000 lumens,&#8221; a short experimental documentary, observes the time and memory embodied by a historic Japanese American building.<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">World Premiere<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Short Film<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">A SHADOW&#8217;S GLOW<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">United States, 2023<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Directed by: Josh Mizrahi, Cole Fourqurean<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Produced by: Allison Witzmann<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Featuring: N\/A<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Synopsis: A creature of shadow cares for a young spirit of light, guiding him home through a dark realm.<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Los Angeles Premiere<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Short Film<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">AIKANE<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">USA, 2023<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Directed by: Daniel Sousa, Dean Hamer, Joe Wilson<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Produced by: Hinaleimoana Wong-Kalu<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Featuring: n\/a<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Synopsis: A valiant island warrior, wounded in battle against foreign invaders, falls into a mysterious underwater world. When the octopus who rescued him transforms into a handsome young man, they fall in love and an epic adventure begins<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Short Film<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">ALL THIS WASTED SPACE<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">The Philippines, 2023<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Directed by: Cris Bringas<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Produced by: Mark Cyril Bautista<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Featuring: Angelu (as an actor, Angelu prefers to use just her first name)<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Synopsis: The search for a burial token for her mother forces a woman to dig up a buried past and confront the house she abandoned for 11 years. As she descends, the house speaks to her.<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">North American Premiere<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Short Film<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">ANCESTORS<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">United States, 2024<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Directed by: Emilio J. Virata, Jr.<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Produced by: Emilio J. Virata, Jr.<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Featuring: Emilio J. Virata, Jr.<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Synopsis: Reflections on Ancestry are expressed in this poem put to film.<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">World Premiere<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Short Film<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">APARTMENT 605<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">USA, 2023<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Directed by: Bianca Catbagan<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Produced by: Andrea A. Walter, Bianca Catbagan<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Featuring: Elena Heuz\u221a\u00a9, Zedrick Restauro<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Synopsis: Mika visits their father\u201a\u00c4\u00f4s apartment when they are interrupted by a stranger at the door.<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Los Angeles Premiere<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Short Film<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">ART21: CHRISTINE SUN KIM<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">United States, 2023<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Directed by: Chiemi Karasawa<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Produced by: Nick Ravich<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Featuring: Christine Sun Kim<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Synopsis: A portrait of artist Christine Sun Kim and her practice.<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Short Film<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">BABY GAY<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">USA, 2024<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Directed by: Arielle Frances Bagood<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Produced by: Sam Shapiro, Melissa Peng<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Featuring: Valerie Yu, Leah Zhang, Maya Knell, Mia Sydney<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Synopsis: Desperate to finally prove her bisexuality, Stevie Lee bluffs her way into a lesbian threesome thinking she\u201a\u00c4\u00f4ll \u201a\u00c4\u00fafigure it out\u201a\u00c4\u00f9 when she gets there.<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Short Film<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">BEST FIENDS<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">United States, 2024<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Directed by: Jonathan De Guzman II<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Produced by: Alec Cohen-Schisler, Alexander L. Dunn, Leatrice Ching<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Featuring: Ryan Gatus, Quinn Vu, Gina May Gimongala<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Synopsis: Two best friends confront each other about their friendship and vape addiction.<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Los Angeles Premiere<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Short Film<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">BIRD DRONE<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Australia, 2023<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Directed by: Radheya Jegatheva<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Produced by: Hannah Ngo<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Featuring: NA<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Synopsis: A lonely seagull struggles to accept that his newfound object of affection is a human-operated drone with a limited battery life.<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Los Angeles Premiere<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Short Film<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">BRONX PARK THUNDER<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">USA, 2024<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Directed by: Shaun Vivaris<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Produced by: Michael Villucci<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Featuring: Kurt Griarte, Franchesca Contreras, Laurent Amzallag, Emmanuelle Feliz, Alex Black, Ben Joseph, Anand Tripathi, Daniel Babij<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Synopsis: Forced to run an errand for a Bronx mafioso, a small-time fireworks andecstasy dealer seizes the opportunity of a lifetime and goes rogue.<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">World Premiere<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Short Film<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">BURNING WELL<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">USA, 2023<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Directed by: M.G. Evangelista<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Produced by: Simone Ling; Robert C Winn<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Featuring: Senator Ladda Tammy Duckworth; Chanel Akiko Kipper<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Synopsis: A candid conversation with Senator Ladda Tammy Duckworth, army veteran, mother, one of only two AAPI senators currently serving in the United States Congress.<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">West Coast Premiere<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Short Film<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">CHRONICLES OF A SANSEI ROCKER<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">USA, 2024<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Directed by: Cory Shiozaki<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Produced by: Cory Shiozaki<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Featuring: Harry Manaka<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Synopsis: Former musician and 3rd generation Japanese American fulfilling an item on his \u201a\u00c4\u00fabucket list\u201a\u00c4\u00f9 writing a book of his memoirs of the coming of age during the tumultuous 60\u201a\u00c4\u00f4s and 70\u201a\u00c4\u00f4s.<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">World Premiere<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Short Film<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">COME TOGETHER<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">United States, 2024<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Directed by: Honestine Pa&#8217;ala-Fraser<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Produced by: Aura Rico<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Featuring: Nina Sosefina, Vai Manai, Christian Vunipola, Raelynn Hymas<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Synopsis:\u00a0Inspired by the 1978 documentary \u201cOmai Fa\u2019atasi: Samoa Mo Samoa,\u201d a teenage girl growing up in a strict Samoan household lives the same day everyday cooking, cleaning, and taking care of her siblings until she joins a community organization that helps her realize her full potential.<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Los Angeles Premiere<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Short Film<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">DAISY IS GONE<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">U.S., 2024<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Directed by: Ziyao Liu<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Produced by: Changhui Shi, Yueyi Xing<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Featuring: Stacy Chu, Stanley Wong, David Maquiling<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Synopsis: An absurdist sci-fi with comedic overtones.<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">World Premiere<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Short Film<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">DOG, BRUH!<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">USA, 2022<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Directed by: Katja!<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Produced by: Yingu Chen<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Featuring: Matthew Mitchell Espinosa, Henrie Thompson, Trodarius Provo, Maya Bello<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Synopsis: Remember that one time in 1995 when Shawn appropriated Black culture to impress his crush and best friend to the Prom?<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Los Angeles Premiere<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Short Film<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">EAT SLEEP POOP AND PASS GAS<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">2024<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Directed by: Fran Ito<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Synopsis:\u00a0January 2024 Fran Ito celebrated her 92nd birthday. It\u2019s a miracle that she is still here on earth enjoying life with family and friends in the midst of life threatening health issues. God is good!<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">World Premiere<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Short Film<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">FRAGMENTED<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">United States, 2024<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Directed by: Tina Quach<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Produced by: Jiming Sun Lindal<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Featuring: Ge Geng, Paul Wong, Angel Jin, Darren Huang, Patrick Chou, Florence Ding, Kai-yong Laurizen<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Synopsis: The late stage of dementia erases memories of his wife, but her recollection of their past renews their bond.<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">World Premiere<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Short Film<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">GRAPEFRUIT<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">USA, 2024<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Directed by: Jessica Liu<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Produced by: Jessica Liu, Kimberly Divad, Nandi Zulu Peck<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Featuring: Hana Wu, Kimberly Divad<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Synopsis: Strangers connect over grapefruit, jelly, and a chance to truly be seen.<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">World Premiere<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Short Film<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">HAPPY INDEPENDENCE DAY<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Kazakhstan, 2023<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Directed by: Camila Sagyntkan<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Produced by: Camila Sagyntkan<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Featuring: Erken Gubashev, Kamila Fun So<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Synopsis: After the death of his love, a middle-aged man tries to find a new sense of life against all changes in the country.<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">West Coast Premiere<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Short Film<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">HOMESTEAD<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">United States, 2023<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Directed by: Justin Pascua<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Produced by: Justin Pascua<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Featuring: Aiden Phengsy, Liane Phengsy<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Synopsis: A local farmer Liane works on her Japanese cucumber farm with only the help of her grandson Aiden, and her husband Boun, with hopes to return to her home in Laos and reunite with her children after 20 years.<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Los Angeles Premiere<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Short Film<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">I LOVE YOU, YOUR KAMO<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">United States, 2022<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Directed by: Isaac Kau<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Produced by: Isaac Kau and Ian Lima<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Featuring: Fern Kuo, Michelle Jonan, Bailey<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Synopsis: A 93-year old Taiwanese widow recounts her love story with her late husband and the sacrifices they made for their children while 6,891 miles apart.<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Los Angeles Premiere<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Short Film<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">I WOULD&#8217;VE BEEN HAPPY<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">USA, 2023<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Directed by: Jordan Wong<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Produced by: Jordan Wong<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Featuring: Jordan Wong<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Synopsis: An attempt to map a fraught relationship through the use of intricately coded pictographs and schematic abstractions applied onto glazed ceramic tiles and quilted cyanotype fabric. The aesthetics of architectural language are used to reconstruct memories of my family&#8217;s domestic spaces in the hope to uncover logic to a broken home.<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Los Angeles Premiere<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Short Film<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">INTO THE EMERALD SEA<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Japan, 2024<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Directed by: Asuka Lin<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Produced by: Giuliana Foulkes, Charlotte Hong Bee Her<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Featuring: Arisa Leisure, Misao Tamai<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Synopsis: Suzu emerges from the ocean after a long disappearance, reuniting with their grandmother &#8211; who has reincarnated into sea turtle.<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">West Coast Premiere<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Short Film<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">IT&#8217;S NEVER TOO LATE TO LIVE YOUR DREAM<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">USA, 2024<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Directed by: Tracy Quan-Nichols<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Produced by: Tracy Quan-Nichols<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Featuring: Parker Dean<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Synopsis: Meet artist Parker Dean and see how it&#8217;s never too late to follow your dream.<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Los Angeles Premiere<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Short Film<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">KAI HALI \u00aaA (SEA OF MEMORY)<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Kingdom of Hawai\u02bbi, 2024<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Directed by: Angelique Kalani Axelrode<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Produced by: aka productions, Tiare Ribeaux, Kiki Rivera<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Featuring: Brigitte Leilani Axelrode, Kalikopuanoheaokalani Aiu, Trisha Hattie Perreira-Axelrode<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Synopsis:\u00a0Through layers of space, time and memory across the ocean and \u02bb\u0101ina (land) on Maui, a diasporic K\u0101naka (Hawaiian) remembers how to connect back to themselves, their family and their lover.<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">North American Premiere<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Short Film<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">KILIG!<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">United States, 2023<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Directed by: Kacey Layson<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Produced by: Achim Mendoza<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Featuring: Ariana Basco, Aurora-Blessing Basco, Fenix Basco, Angelina Regoso<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Synopsis: &#8220;A film about a mother and daughter, meeting each other where they are.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">\n<p dir=\"ltr\">\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Short Film<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">KOWLOON!<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">USA, 2024<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Directed by: Mona Xia, Erin Ramirez<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Produced by: Mona Xia, Erin Ramirez<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Featuring: Bobby Wong, Stanley Wong, Andy Wong, Lillian Moy<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Synopsis:\u00a0As the biggest Chinese restaurant in the US, Kowloon represents the Wong family\u2019s American Dream come true. However, as third-generation owners Bobby Wong and his brothers approach their seventies, they consider the weight of their family and community legacy.<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">West Coast Premiere<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Short Film<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">LA NUEVA FLOR<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">United States, 2023<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Directed by: Emmanuel Enriquez<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Produced by: Emmanuel Enriquez<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Featuring: Family<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Synopsis: Building upon their foundational roots, a family discusses their past, present, and future familial blooms.<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Los Angeles Premiere<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Short Film<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">LEA TUPU&#8217;ANGA | MOTHER TONGUE<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">New Zealand, 2024<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Directed by: Vea Mafile&#8217;o<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Produced by: Alex Lovell, Eldon Booth<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Featuring: Luciane Buchanan, Albert Rounds, Mikey Falesiu, Michael Koloi, Elizabeth Thomson<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Synopsis: A young speech therapist disconnected from her Tongan heritage lies about her Tongan language skills to get a job. Out of her depth, she must find a way to communicate or risk her patient\u201a\u00c4\u00f4s life.<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">West Coast Premiere<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Short Film<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">LET LOVE FLOW &#8211; AN OH MYH DATING HELL STORY<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">United States, 2024<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Directed by: Ryan Fukuda<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Produced by: Vincent Hoai Pham<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Featuring: MYHRALIZA AALA as Myh DeLeon, NICK SERRONE as Dan The Man Ford, CHRISTINA UYENO as Brit, RUBY UPADHYAY REID as Kareena, KRISTINA HADDAD as Auntie Erlinda, RICH COHN-LEE as Steve, DOUG SELLERS as George, KVETKA SANCHEZ as Glow, REBECCA MORSE as Dance Instructor, BRANSEN SANDS as Eddy,\u00a0 SOPHIE INOUYE as Young Myh, LILIANA INOUYE as Teenage Myh<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Synopsis: A woman past her prime age of marriage, seeking to find her perfect match, goes blindly into a date using a new app, only to find it\u201a\u00c4\u00f4s someone a little too close to<br \/>\nhome.<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">World Premiere<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Short Film<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">LOVE WITHOUT WORDS<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">United States, 2024<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Directed by: Bryan Takeda<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Produced by: Bryan Takeda<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Featuring: Frank Sata<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Synopsis: Upon reflection, a son expresses his gratitude and love for his father without words.<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">World Premiere<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Short Film<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">MARAHORO<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Chile, 2024<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Directed by: Camila Flores Hevia, Sof\u00eda Rodr\u00edguez Pizero<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Produced by: Camila Flores Hevia, Camila Flores Hevia, Sof\u00eda Rodr\u00edguez Pizero<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Featuring: Poike Tuki Mej\u00eda, Aka-hanga Rapu Tuki, Sicky Rapu Tuki<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Synopsis: Marahoro is a 15-year-old Rapa-Nui boy who finds in an ancient holler the strength to confront his father&#8217;s harshness and pursue his calling from the voices of the sea.<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">North American Premiere<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Short Film<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">MOSQUITO LADY<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">USA, 2023<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Directed by: Kristine Gerolaga<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Produced by: Kristine Gerolaga, Steven Krimmel, Lauren Bancroft, Jesus Beltran<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Featuring: Hanna Lorica, Maria Lingbanan, Ina Dahilig, Rhandy Torres<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Synopsis: Terrified of telling her parents that she&#8217;s pregnant as restrictions to abortion access worsen, a desperate teenager seeks the help of a reclusive neighbor who her parents warned her about.<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">\n<p dir=\"ltr\">\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Short Film<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">NEVER GO HUNGRY AGAIN!<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">USA, 2024<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Directed by: Bernice Ng<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Produced by: Bernice Ng<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Featuring: Bernice Ng<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Synopsis: A daughter uncovers her mother&#8217;s tumultuous past in China, inspiring a collaborative book detailing survival, resilience, and triumph in America.<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">World Premiere<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Short Film<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">NO ESCAPE<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">United States, 2024<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Directed by: Leena Kurishingal<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Produced by: Timothy Farrell, Leena Kurishingal<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Featuring: Leena Kurishingal, Mike Monreal, Shivani Thakkar, Parvesh Cheena, Gregory Hollimon<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Synopsis: A couple&#8217;s romantic weekend in the woods goes awry with an unwelcome spooky arrival.<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">World Premiere<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Short Film<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">OF SILENCE AND SONG<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">United States, 2023<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Directed by: Dai Leyi<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Produced by: Alex Jiang, Lameng Bei<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Featuring: Kim Jiang Dubaniewicz, Christine Marian Tang, Lynne Bolen, Grace Mar, Sharon Gardner<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Synopsis: A pregnant single mother grapples with revealing the truth to her family as she navigates a world embroiled in a crisis over women&#8217;s bodily autonomy.<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Short Film<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">OVER EASY<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">USA, 2023<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Directed by: Jiyeon Kim-Myung<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Produced by: Kevin Yiu, Jiyeon Kim-Myung, &#8220;Anna&#8221; Yuxing Lei, Shamel Fadloun<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Featuring: Kaitlyn Ohara, Christine Liao<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Synopsis: Two women who just wanted a fun and casual night are delivered a giant egg that will hatch into their baby and are forced to make important life decisions.<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">West Coast Premiere<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Short Film<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">PERFECT CITY: THE BRAVEST KID<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">USA, China, 2023<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Directed by: Shengwei Zhou<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Produced by: Shengwei Zhou, Lei Wang<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Featuring: Meng Wu, Shengwei Zhou<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Synopsis: Chased by a knife hand, a paper boy gradually finds out his biggest fear is the same as his hope.<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Short Film<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">REACH OUT<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">USA, 2024<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Directed by: John Haas<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Produced by: Menchie Caliboso, Joanne Danganan<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Featuring: Vanessa Acosta, Menchie Caliboso, Andrew Dickson, Roger Rigor<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Synopsis: In an intergenerational collaboration between Los Angeles-based electronica\/soul trio Bootleg Orchestra and singer Roger Rigor from iconic Filipino band VST &amp; Co, this short documentary explores the creative process of producing a song that calls for international solidarity for climate justice and highlights the role of music in giving life to a movement.<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">World Premiere<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Short Film<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">ROCK THE CRADLE<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Canada, 2023<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Directed by: Asis Sethi<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Produced by: Daisy Kaur Guron, Rabiya Mansoor<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Featuring: Gauri Prasad, Sukhman Gill, Ronica Sajnani, Sarabjeet Singh Arora, Jasmine Sawant, Keerthi Paikera, Rehraas Sethi Randhawa, Amayra Patel<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Synopsis: When the grips of postpartum depression engulf a new struggling South Asian mother, she must learn to stay afloat without drowning in her own darkness.<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">International Premiere<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Short Film<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">SEE YOU, DEN<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">2024<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Directed by: Don Bannai<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Synopsis: Playing music is playing from the heart. Alan Furutani, the groups Visions and Fujazz have provided a soundtrack for us for fifty years.<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">World Premiere<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Short Film<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">SHOT CLOCK<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">USA, 2024<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Directed by: King Lu<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Produced by: Jera Wang, Aaron Yu<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Featuring: Anthony Yu, Mayoum Mayoum, &#8220;Never Miss&#8221; Allie, Lion Dodsworth, Geoff D. Green, David Kasner, Ryon Thomas, Addison Ferguson<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Synopsis: Three teenagers &#8211; an Asian boy, Black boy, and Latina girl &#8211; weaponize their race and gender to hustle people at basketball in LA.<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Short Film<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">SO, THAT HAPPENED<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">United States, 2024<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Directed by: Neha Aziz<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Produced by: Mase Kerwick, Alifya Ali<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Featuring: Anu Mysore, Harsh Milan<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Synopsis: Sheila and Imran haven\u2019t seen each other since college, but when Imran moves back to Austin, an opportunity arises for the pair to get acquainted once more.<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">West Coast Premiere<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Short Film<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">SPECIAL CAMP<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">USA, 2024<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Directed by: Teresa Takaki Matsushima<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Produced by: Teresa Takaki Matsushima<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Featuring: Marion Masada, Teresa Takaki Matsushima<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Synopsis: Special Camp, for the Asian American developmentally disabled, celebrates its 50th year in 2024.<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Los Angeles Premiere<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Short Film<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">SQUEEGEE BOY<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">USA, 2024<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Directed by: Chung-Wei Huang<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Produced by: Taelor Clay<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Featuring: Cody Vu, Jenny Jia, Ahmir Ingram, Amari Stewart, Malachi White, Ying Zhang, Lauren Jackson, Tiffany Ho<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Synopsis: On a quest for belonging and acceptance, a trans teenager yearns to become part of a tight-knit group of squeegee boys in Baltimore city.<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">West Coast Premiere<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Short Film<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">STRANGE<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Japan, 2023<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Directed by: Ken Ochiai<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Produced by: Shizuha Sanada<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Featuring: Towa Araki<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Synopsis: An introverted suburban Tokyo high school student randomly encounters a depressed drag queen, and through their friendship they learn to overcome their internal fears.<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Short Film<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">TEN TIMES BETTER<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">US, 2024<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Directed by: Jennifer Lin<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Produced by: Jon Funabiki, Cory Lin Stieg, Jennifer Lin<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Featuring: George Lee<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Synopsis: Prodded by his refugee mother to be \u201aen times better\u201a in white America, George Lee is an 89-year-old blackjack dealer in Las Vegas who battled hardship and racism to become an Asian American pioneer in ballet and on Broadway.<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">West Coast Premiere<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Short Film<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">THE 7TH NIGHT: MAOMAO REVISITS<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Malaysia, 2023<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Directed by: ahLoong<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Produced by: Edmund Chan, Raye Lee<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Featuring: LynLing, Dasimah<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Synopsis: This is a story about a little boy waiting for the return of his lost beloved cat MaoMao.<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Short Film<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">THE BOXER AND THE ASTRONAUT<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Philippines, 2024<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Directed by: Jake Mu\u00f1oz Consing<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Produced by: Jake Mu\u00f1oz Consing, Sita Valenzuela, Risa Marie Magtuto<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Featuring: Nikko Delos Santos, JM San Jose, Roldan Aldea, Jun Tomagan<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Synopsis: After a car accident, a paralyzed boxer struggles to regain his relationship with his 9-year-old son when his mother leaves them behind.<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">World Premiere<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Short Film<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">THE GRASS ISN\u2019T ALWAYS GREENER: MIGRANTS IN THE WORKPLACE<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">United States, 2024<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Directed by: Arianny Gallardo, Daniel Sanchez Diaz, Edickson Espinosa, Franchesca Thomas, Francis Genao, Giosmar Garcia, Hajjasow Cisse, John Michel, Jose Paucar, Mathias Flores Uchuypoma, Mously Thiam, Nyla Collado, Quesly Gonzalez, Sajidur Rahman, Talyah Golding<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Produced by: Arianny Gallardo, Daniel Sanchez Diaz, Edickson Espinosa, Franchesca Thomas, Francis Genao, Giosmar Garcia, Hajjasow Cisse, John Michel, Jose Paucar, Mathias Flores Uchuypoma, Mously Thiam, Nyla Collado, Quesly Gonzalez, Sajidur Rahman, Talyah Golding<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Synopsis: Made by young people, The Grass Isn\u2019t Always Greener: Migrants in the Workplace, explores the dangers of workplace exploitation among immigrant communities.<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">West Coast Premiere<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Short Film<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">THE QUEEN&#8217;S FLOWERS<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">USA, Hawaii, 2024<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Directed by: Ciara Leina\u2019ala Lacy<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Produced by: Concepcion Saucedo-Trejo, Ciara Leina \u00aaala Lacy<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Featuring: Starr K. Kal\u0101hiki, Ku\u2019umilileika\u2019iulani Tuitele, Kamehameha Schools Children\u02bbs Chorus<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Synopsis:\u00a0A magical take on a true story, THE QUEEN\u02bbS FLOWERS is an animated short adventure for kids that follows Emma, a Native Hawaiian girl in 1915 Honolulu, as she makes a special gift for the last monarch of Hawai`i, Queen Lili`uokalani.<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">West Coast Premiere<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Short Film<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">THIS IS A STORY WITHOUT A PLAN<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">United States, 2023<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Directed by: Cassie Shao<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Synopsis: Two people, and an explosion.<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Los Angeles Premiere<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Short Film<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">TUIA NG\u0100 HERE<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Aotearoa, 2024<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Directed by: Kura Turuwhenua, Heriata Rurehe<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Produced by: Oriwa Hakaraia, Jessica-Lee Berghan, Madeleine Hakaraia de Young, Te Tomairangi o Matariki Black<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Featuring: Te Atahaia Durie, Inia Manawat\u0101whi Rangi\u0101o, Michael Paku, Christine Nepata-Kidwell<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Synopsis: &#8220;When a young boy fears for his grandfather\u201a\u00c4\u00f4s health he looks to the land to seek the cure&#8221;<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">International Premiere<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Short Film<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">VS<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">United States of America, 2024<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Directed by: Jole Sanchez<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Produced by: Jole Sanchez, Derek Basco, Annalea Fiachi<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Featuring: Deuce Basco, Derrick Watson, Everett Harrison, Derek Basco<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Synopsis: Set in 1992, a Filipino kid working at his father\u201a\u00c4\u00f4s liquor store seeks community through the arcade game Street Fighter II, but finds himself clashing with a local bully.<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">World Premiere<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Short Film<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">WEATHER FORECAST: AUGMENTED!<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Taiwan, United States, 2024<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Directed by: Pei-Lun Hsieh<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Produced by: Pei-Lun Hsieh<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Featuring: N\/A<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Synopsis: A girl working in a weather forecast studio discovers an augmented weather display system that can also change the forecasted weather.<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Los Angeles Premiere<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Short Film<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">WINDHORSE<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Nepal, 2023<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Directed by: Sunil Gurung<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Produced by: Asha Magrati, Deepak Rauniyar<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Featuring: Jampa Kalsang Tamang, Sudarshan Gurung<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Synopsis: Sonam and his estranged son Karma journey to ancestral monasteries in the mountains to light butter lamps in memory of Sonam&#8217;s deceased wife.<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">North American Premiere<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>VC Film Fest Announces Lineup of&#46;&#46;&#46;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[13,6],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-63797","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-arts","category-ca-local"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/lapost.us\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/63797","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/lapost.us\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/lapost.us\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/lapost.us\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/lapost.us\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=63797"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/lapost.us\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/63797\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":63798,"href":"https:\/\/lapost.us\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/63797\/revisions\/63798"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/lapost.us\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=63797"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/lapost.us\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=63797"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/lapost.us\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=63797"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}