PAAFF'15 Program Guide by Philadelphia Asian American Film & Filmmakers

Presented by

Healthy mind, healthy body, healthy you Aetna is proud to support the Philadelphia Asian American Film Festival. Learn more about us at www.aetnaleapplans.com/paff. Aetna is the brand name used for products and services provided by one or more of the Aetna group of subsidiary companies, including Aetna Life Insurance Company and its affiliates (Aetna). 2015 PAAFF

ÂŠ2015 Aetna Inc. 2014014

September 25, 2014

Letter from the White House

White House Initiative on Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders (WHIAAPI), I t welcome to the attendees of the Philadelphia Asian American Film Festival aud PAAFF’s commitment to celebrating and elevating the Asian American GREETINGS: September 29, 2015 gh culturally relevant films.

On behalf of the White House Initiative on Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders (WHIAAPI), my warmest welcome a reauthorized WHIAAPI to improve the quality of lifeI send and opportunities for theto the attendees of the Philadelphia Asian American Film Festival (PAAFF). I applaud PAAFF’s dedication to celebrating the y through increased access to and participation in federal programs, in which diverse AAPI experience through culturally relevant films.

erserved. With your involvement, the Initiative seeks to highlight both the President Obama reauthorized WHIAAPI to improve the quality of life and et needs in AAPI communities as well as the dynamic assets that can be opportunities for the AAPI community through increased access to and participation t those needs. in federal programs, in which they remain underserved. With your involvement, the

WHITE HOUSE INITIATIVE ON Initiative seeks to highlight both the tremendous unmet needs in AAPI communities as MERICANS AND PACIFIC ISLANDERS well asthe thePhiladelphia dynamic assets that can be leveraged to meet those needs. FF for its dedication to educating and exposing region to films

an Americans.

I commend PAAFF for its commitment to sharing films by and about AAPIs with the Philadelphia region.

m congratulations and continued success in the 25, years to come. September 2014

I wish you a warm congratulations and continued success in the years to come. Sincerely, Sincerely,

ed WHIAAPI to improve the quality of life and opportunities for the

2015 PAAFF

se Initiative on Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders (WHIAAPI), I to the attendees of the Philadelphia Asian American Film Festival Kiran Ahuja F’s commitment to celebrating and elevating the Asian American Kiran Ahuja WHIAAPI Executive Director y relevant films. WHIAAPI Executive Director 3

Contents PAAFF’15 Sponsors / 05

Off the Menu / 32

Letters From The Governor & Mayor / 06

Miss India America / 33

Staff Listing / 07

Community Screening Series: Remembering Vietnam / 34-35

Welcome Letter From The Festival Director / 08

Animation Shorts / 37

Festival Schedules / 10–11

International Shorts / 38

Opening Night: Seoul Searching / 13

Changing Season / 40

APAs in Television Panel / 14

Someone Else / 41

Mockumentary Double Feature / 16

API Feminist Identity Spoken Word Workshop / 42

All in the Family Shorts / 17

Women’s Shorts / 43

Winning Girl / 19

Aroma From Heaven / 44

Jasmine / 20

Love Arcadia / 45

Crush the Skull / 21

Waiting For John

Sci-Fi & Horror Genre Shorts / 22

Japan at War Shorts / 48

Muslim Youth Voices Panel / 24

The Vancouver Asahi / 49

For Here or To Go?

My Voice, My Life

/ 50

2015 PAAFF

In Football We Trust / 26

Closing Night: Right Footed / 51

Live From UB / 27

Film Juries / 52

Centerpiece: Strength in Numbers / 28-29

Vijay Mohan Tribute / 54-55

Jalal’s Story / 30

Thank Yous / 56-57

Dukhtar / 31 4

/ 25

/ 46

Sponsors Presenting Sponsor

Premier Sponsor

Founding Sponsor

HBO速 and related channels and service marks are the property of Home Box Office, Inc.

Partner Sponsors

Prime Sponsors

Presenting Venues

Media Partners

Greater Phila Asian Studies Consortium

Supporting Sponsors

Community Partners

2015 PAAFF 5

MMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR

letters from the governor & mayor COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR

GREETINGS:

GREETINGS: It is a pleasure to welcome the patrons and guests of the 8th Annual Philadelphia Asian American Film Festival (PAAFF) taking place November 12–22, 2015.

It is my pleasure to welcome everyone to the 8th Annual Philadelphia Asian American Film Festival (PAAFF).

The PAAFF occupies a unique niche in the Philadelphia cultural community; presenting films written, produced, directed, and about Through the medium of film, shared Asian Americans. Founded in 2008, the nonprofit PAAFF has built connections can be made amongst our a reputation as a singular event to showcase culturally relevant films commonwealth’s diverse ethnic and and first quality examples of film artistry to the increasing and diverse social communities. Since its inception th come everyone to the 8 annual Philadelphia asian audiences of Philadelphia. in 2008, PAAFF has given Asian American filmmakers and actors the opportunity to share their creations and talents GreetiNGS: During the numerous film screenings and related events, audiences are invited to with a broad and multi-cultural audience. With the support of film, shared connections can be made participate in post film discussions with filmmakers and actors, take part in special live PAAFF, Asian Americans will amongst continueour to play an integral role th itemerging is my pleasure to welcome everyone to the 8 annual Philadelphia asian d social communities. Since its inception in 2008, PaaFF events, featured receptions, and celebratory parties. PAAFF is the recipient of the 2010 in Philadelphia’s film industry. I extend my sincere american Film Festival (PaaFF). kers and actors the opportunity to share their Share the Heritage Award presented by the Philadelphia Multicultural Affairs Congress and gratitude to the organization andcreations its supporters, and it is GreetiNGS: ti-cultural audience. the support PaaFF, asian grow and reach a the 2012 International Vision Award presented by International House of Philadelphia. my hope With that this festival of will continue it is my pleasure to jointo with the Philadelphia asian american Film Festival through theto medium film, connections can be made amongst our n integral role in Philadelphia’s (PaaFF) tofilm welcomeindustry. everyoneof gathered here forshared the 2014 festival. diverse audience foremerging years come. and social Since its inception in 2008, PaaFF he organization and itscommonwealth’s supporters, and diverse itPennsylvania is myethnic hope thrives onthat its vibrant cultural communities. heritage and asian americans represent On behalf of the City of Philadelphia, I commend PAAFF Festival Director Rob Buscher and a vital component to our Commonwealth’s diverse ethnic and social community. Since its has given asian american filmmakers and Film actors opportunity tothe share their creations and reach a As diverse audience foron years to come. inception in 2008, thecitizens Philadelphia asian american Festival the has remained dedicated dedicated PAAFF staff for presenting the Philadelphia Asian American Film Festival for Governor, and behalf of all of the to educating others about asian american culture through film production. this year’s and talents with a broad and multi-cultural audience. With the support of PaaFF, asian PaaFF provides anI opportunity for Pennsylvanians to celebrate the asian american the education, enlightenment, and entertainment of Philadelphia’s regional audiences. Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, am honored to welcome community and highlight the contributions they have role made toin our Philadelphia’s society. i extend my willsupport continue to play an emerging film industry. f of all citizens of theamericans commonwealth of Pennsylvania, iandintegral sincere gratitude to the 2015 organization its supporters, and Asian it is my hope that this festival everyone gathered to the Philadelphia will continue to grow and reach a diverse audience for years to come. i Film extend my sincere gratitude to my the best organization its supporters, Iand it you is myevery hopepresent that ne gathered to support the 2015 Philadelphia asian wish and future success in offering this artistic series of films and American Festival. Please accept wishes and for an as Governor, on behalf all Pennsylvanians, i am pleased to welcome will continue to and grow andof reach a diverse audience for years to come. accept my best wishesthis forfestival an enjoyable and memorable enjoyable and memorable event. events and in increasing the knowledge of and exposure to Asian American filmmakers for everyone gathered at the 2014 Philadelphia asian american Film Festival. Please accept my best wishes for an enjoyable and memorable event. Philadelphia’s discriminating filmgoers. as Governor, and on behalf of all citizens of the commonwealth of Pennsylvania, i am honored to welcome everyone gathered to support the 2015 Philadelphia asian american Film Festival. Please accept my best wishes for an enjoyable and memorable tOM cOrBett Governor event. 2014 tOM WOlF Michael A. Nutter Governor Mayor 2015 2015 COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR

2015 PAAFF

tOM WOlF Governor

PAAFF’15 STAFF

Rob Buscher Festival Director/Programmer Program Layout Michael Wingate Jones Managing Director Brad Baldia Corporate Relations/ Community Affairs Director Phuong Nguyen Development Director Suan Tan Volunteer Director Mike Donnelly Events Coordinator Pamela Yau Festival Staff

REEMA KANZARIA Guest Services Coordinator

Jacqui Sadashige Festival Staff

monica gov PAAFF’15 Concept Design

Ben Silverio Social Media Director

Alison Malehorn Festival Staff

Jeffrey Hsu Festival Trailer

CLARK MATTHEWS Print Traffic

Thanh Lam Festival Staff

James J. Newhard, CPA Accounting Services

Quynh-Mai Nguyen Website Designer

Rebekah Mueller Festival Staff

Ballard Spahr LLP Legal Counsel

Herb White Festival Staff

Dan Tabor Marketing Consultant

Xinyi yang Festival Staff

Do young ahn Brand Consultant

Eric hung Festival Staff

Scott chops jung Guest Curator

Lisa Jiang Festival Staff

MAORI HOLMES PR Consultant

Film Review Committee Members Rob Buscher Mike Donnelly Rebekah Mueller Phuong Nguyen Jacqui Sadashige Suan Tan

2015 PAAFF 7

letter from the Festival Director Greetings friends! It is with great excitement that I welcome you to the Philadelphia Asian American Film Festival. In this guide you will find details about all the Features, Shorts Programs, Food Events, Musical Performances, Panels, Workshops, and a host of other peripheral programming at this year’s festival. This is our 8th anniversary, which according to Chinese numerology, is an auspicious number, associated with luck and good fortune. Because of this I was mindful of other significant numbers while selecting the program of this year’s festival. 2015 marks the 70th anniversary of the end of WWII, concluding the disastrous conflict wrought by Imperial Japan in Asia. The impacts of this war led to a large influx of new Asian immigration in the post-war era. Asian Americans were also affected by rampant anti-Asian racism and most notably the mass incarceration of 120,000+ people of Japanese descent.

2015 PAAFF

We acknowledge the 50th anniversary of the Voting Rights Act, taking important steps to prohibit racial discrimination in voting, impacting communities of color across the US. We also celebrate the 50th Anniversary of the Immigration Act of 1965, which caused a radical break from racialized policies of the past and created a precedent for immigration and naturalization of Asians.

40 years have passed since the end of the Vietnam War, which catalyzed the mass migration of Southeast Asians to the US, and Philadelphia specifically. 10 years ago YouTube launched its revolutionary video platform that forever changed the way we consume content. Some of our most talented contemporary Asian American artists have found success this way, at a time when Hollywood and mainstream television was not yet willing to reflect the true diversity of our society. With all these auspicious numbers, we are pleased to announce that PAAFF has become the #1 Asian American film festival on the East Coast, with more films and programs than any other festival. PAAFF’15 would not have been possible without the tireless efforts of our volunteer staff, community partners, venue partners, and sponsors. Thank you all for attending, and I look forward to welcoming you to our festival.

Rob Buscher Festival Director

2015 PAAFF 9

Program Schedule THURSDAY, NOV. 12

SUNDAY, NOV. 15

JASMINE 7:10-9pm | I-House

jalal’s story

Crush the skull

12–2:30pm | I-House

9:20–11:10pm | I-House

Sci Fi Horror Genre Shorts 11:30pm–12:45am | I-House

dukhtar 2:50–4:50pm | I-House

off the menu

opening night: SEOUL SEARCHING

opening reception 9:30pm-12am

7–9pm | I-House

SATURDAY, NOV. 14

5:10–6:20pm | I-House

Muslim Youth Voices Panel

miss india america

11:30am-1pm | I-House

For Here, or to go?

COMMUNITY SCREENING SERIES MONDAY, NOV. 16 - THURSDAY, 19

1:20–3:30pm | I-House

FRIDAY, NOV. 13 APA in television panel 12–1:30pm | UPenn

in football we trust 3:50–5:40pm | I-House

don’t think i’ve forgotten Monday, Nov. 16 | 6:30–9pm | PBR Temple

live from ub 6–7:40pm | I-House

mockumentary double feature 2–3:20pm | I-House

centerpiece Event: strength in numbers

All in the family shorts

9–11:30pm | I-House

3:40–5:10pm | I-House 2015 PAAFF

Winning Girl 5:30–6:55pm | I-House 10

7:20-9:20pm | I-House

journey from the fall Tuesday, Nov. 17 | 6:30–9pm | STA

Oh, saigon + shorts Wednesday, Nov. 18 | 6:30–9pm | PPC

chinatown after party 12-2 am

the roots remain + shorts Thursday, Nov. 19 | 6:30–9pm | PBR Temple

FRIDAY, NOV. 20

SUNDAY, NOV. 22

ANIMATION Shorts

JAPAN AT WAR SHORTS

5–6pm | Asian Arts Initiative

12–1:30pm | Asian Arts Initiative

INTERNATIONAL SHORTS

THE VANCOUVER ASAHI

6:15–7:45pm | Asian Arts Initiative

1:45–4pm | Asian Arts Initiative

CHANGING SEASON

MY VOICE, MY LIFE

8–9:15pm | Asian Arts Initiative

4:30-6:10pm | Asian Arts Initiative

SOMEONE ELSE

closing night: RIGHT FOOTED

9:30–10:50pm | Asian Arts Initiative

SATURDAY, NOV. 21 FEMINIST IDENTITY WORKSHOP 12–2pm | Asian Arts Initiative

WOMEN’S SHORTS 2:15–3:30pm | Asian Arts Initiative

AROMA FROM HEAVEN

6:30-8:15 | Asian Arts Initiative

Closing Reception 8:15-10pm

Ticket Information $8 General Admission $6 Students & Seniors (Requires ID) For Both Asian Arts Initiative (AAI) & International House (IHouse) All Access Festival Badge $100 General Admission $80 Students & Seniors Festival Venues I-House (International House) 3701 Chestnut Street, West Philly Asian Arts Initiative 1219 Vine Street, Chinatown UPenn (University of Pennsylvania) Arch Building 3601 Locust Walk, Room 108 PBR Temple (Preah Buddha Rangsey Temple) 2400 S 6th Street, South Philly STA (St. Thomas Aquinas - Lower Hall) 1719 Morris St, South Philly PPC (Philadelphia Praise Center) 1707 McKean Street, South Philly

WAITING FOR JOHN

Unless specified, receptions take place at same venue as the movie.

LOVE ARCADIA

8:15–10pm | Asian Arts Initiative

2015 PAAFF

6–8pm | Asian Arts Initiative

three ways to order tickets 1/ www.paaff.org 2/ 215.387.5125 (IHP Screening Only) 3/ International House box office Tuesday–Saturday, 1–8pm

3:45-5:15pm | Asian Arts Initiative

HBO PROUDLY SUPPORTS THE

PHIL ADELPHIA ASIAN AMERIC AN FILM FESTIVAL 2015 2015 PAAFF

Opening Night Film

Thursday, Nov. 12 | 7–9pm | I-House 105 mins | Romantic Teen Comedy | South Korea, USA Writer/Director: Benson Lee Cast: Justin Chon, Jessika Van, In-Pyo Cha, Teo Yoo, Esteban Ahn Set against the backdrop of 1980s Seoul Korea and inspired by a summer exchange program that Writer/Director Benson Lee attended in the summer of ‘86, this John Hughes-esque Teen Comedy tells a universal coming-of-age story chock full of pop culture tropes, teen hijinks, and first love.

P hiladelphia P remiere

Seoul Searching

Director Benson Lee expected in attendance for post-film Q&A, followed by the PAAFF’15 Opening Night Reception featuring 80s dance music and costume contest FREE to all ticket and badge holders.

opening reception 9:30pm-12am

2015 PAAFF 13

Peter Shinkoda is a film and television actor who most recently starred as the

FREE EVENT

Panel Discussion

villainous Nobu on Marvel’s Daredevil which is distributed via NETFLIX and is

Asian americans in television

currently available to stream. Notable past roles include Dai on the TNT science fiction series Falling Skies Seasons 1 and 2 by Steven Spielberg, and Sektor in the Warner Bros. web series Mortal Kombat: Legacy. He has also appeared in films such as WAR, I, Robot, Paycheck, The Hole in 3D, and guest starred on TV shows such as Hawaii FIVE-O, Supernatural, Sanctuary among many others.

Friday, Nov. 13 | 12–1:30pm | UPenn

The panel will discuss the recent triumphs of the Asian American and Pacific Islander American community with regards to onscreen representation on major network television shows (Fresh off the Boat, Selfie, Community, Mindy Kaling Show, The Walking Dead) including more recent problematic representations. Panelists come from a variety of backgrounds including onscreen talent, public television programming, and academia.

Dr. Peter X Feng received his B.A. in American Studies from Yale University and his M.A. and Ph.D. in Film Studies from The University of Iowa. Dr. Feng has published articles in Cinema Journal, Cineaste, Amerasia Journal, Jump Cut, Camera Obscura, in addition to Screening Asian Americans (2002) and Identities in Motion: Asian American Film and Video (2002), two collections of essays on Asian Americans and Film. Dr. Feng teaches courses in Theory, Asian American Literature, and Film Studies at University of Delaware.

Kar Yin Tham is an independent filmmaker based in San Francisco and Kuala Lumpur. Formerly Associate Director at the Center for Asian American Media, she has produced standards based curriculum aligned content for PBS Learning Media and supported the development of documentaries for public television. Kar Yin has over 20 years of experience in youth development

Moderated by NBC10 news

programs and organizational management. She’s currently calibrating her dreams for a better world into a series of challenging projects.

anchor Denise Nakano.

Philadelphia-area native Dr. Jacqui Sadashige has earned multiple postgraduate degrees including a Ph.D. from the University of Pennsylvania.

2015 PAAFF

Presented in Partnership with:

She has reviewed numerous films for popular and scholarly publications. Dr. Sadashige currently teaches Cinema and Asian American Studies for the Critical Writing Program at the University of Pennsylvania. Her scholarly

Greater Phila Asian Studies Consortium 14

interests include film, the intersection of race and gender in popular culture, and animal studies.

The thrill of seeing a story unfold Films have the ability to tell stories in new and creative ways that capture our imagination and whisk us far, far away.

We applaud the Philadelphia Asian American Film Festival. wellsfargo.com

2015 PAAFF

SHORTS PROGRAM

FREE SCREENING

Mockumentary double feature Friday, Nov. 13 | 2–3:20pm | I-House

This double feature mockumentary program showcases two shorts that address serious topics related to identity and culture through a light hearted dramedy style reminiscent of television mockumentaries such as The Office or Parks & Rec.

east of hollywood

pamanhikan

28 mins | Mockumentary | USA

29 mins | Mockumentary | USA | PAAFF Pride

Writer/Director: Chris Caccioppoli Cast: Michael Tow, Danni Wang, Celeste Oliva

Writer/Director: Angelo Santos Cast: John Arcilla, Julia Campanelli, Patrick Cooley

This short-form mockumentary exposes the stereotypes Asian American actors are forced to deal with throughout the audition process and features a talented, multicultural East Coast cast. Developed by Michael Tow and writer/director Chris Caccioppoli, this film draws from real experiences encountered by Tow and fellow Asian American actors throughout their careers.

Brendan and Jun, an interracial gay couple, engage in the Filipino tradition of ‘pamanhikan’, or introducing their parents to each other in advance of their marriage. Dysfunction ensues as Jun’s supportive mother and father (who still denies his son’s sexuality) come together with Brendan’s disapproving mother and estranged father. Enjoy the awkard hilarity as conversations of God, athletics, and sex make an already uncomfortable situation worse.

Director and members of the cast/crew expected in attendance.

Director expected in attendance. 2015 PAAFF 16

SHORTS PROGRAM

Friday, Nov. 13 | 3:40–5:10pm I-House | 63 mins

A mixed program of Narrative and Documentary shorts ranging from light comedy to heartfelt drama, all dealing with issues of family, culture, and identity. Filmmakers expected in attendance.

Finding Cleveland

finding cleveland Director: Larissa Lam | 11 mins

A family day Director: Jeff Man | 10 mins

Left behind in China as a baby, a man in his twilight years searches for the father he never knew in the small town of Cleveland, Mississippi.

Having witnessed the changes Alzheimer’s has brought upon his grandmother, Jeff makes a visit to her elder care home to film a day in her life. In doing so, he attempts to catch a glimpse of the thoughts that pass through her mind on a given day and of the woman he remembers from not too long ago.

made in bali Director: Michael Pohorly | 14 mins A young American arrives in Bali for the first time to hire a tour guide, keeping hidden his reasons for his visit. distance between Director: R.J. Lozada | 9 mins | PAAFF Pride

made in bali

A Family Day

A personal exploration of fatherhood as a sperm donor to the filmmaker’s lesbian couple friends, through a probing video letter to his unborn child.

family gathering Director: David Au | 19 mins | PAAFF Pride A recently married interracial elderly gay couple, Hiro and Bud, spend an unforgettable afternoon with their family. Enjoy a day in the life of this dysfunctional yet endearing Asian American family.

Family gathering

2015 PAAFF

Distance between

FREE SCREENING

all in the family Shorts

Pacific Islanders in Communications proudly presents PACIFIC ISLANDER SHOWCASE at the Philadelphia Asian American Film Festival Celebrating 25 years of preserving our heritage through the language of film 2015 PAAFF 18

PIC_PAAFF_20150921_prog_ad_FINAL.indd 1

9/28/15 9:28 PM

Documentary Program | Pacific Islander Showcase

Friday, Nov. 13 | 5:30–6:55pm | I-House 68 mins | Documentary | Hawaii Director: Kimberlee Bassford Teshya Alo is 15 years old and 125 pounds, but on the judo and wrestling mats she beats women twice her age, who are more experienced and from heavier weight classes. She also beats boys. Now, she has her sights set on taking gold at both the judo and wrestling world championships. If she does, she’ll be the first and youngest athlete ever to win world championships in two different sports in the same year. But it won’t be easy.

east coast P remiere

Winning girl

WINNING GIRL follows the four-year journey of this part-Polynesian female teenage judo and wrestling phenomenon from Hawai‘i, and in doing so tells the dynamic story of an elite athlete on her ascent, a girl facing the challenges of growing up and an entire family dedicated to a single dream.

Presented by 2015 PAAFF 19

Narrative Program

P hiladelphia P remiere

Jasmine

Friday, Nov. 13 | 7:10–9pm | I-House 80 mins | Suspense | Hong Kong, USA Director: Dax Phelan Writers: Dax Phelan, Jason Tobin Cast: Jason Tobin, Byron Mann, Eugenia Yuan

A gripping and chilling psychological thriller about a man, Leonard To (Tobin), still struggling to come to terms with his grief nearly a year after his wife’s unsolved murder. Hoping to move on with his life, Leonard reconnects with Grace (Yuan), a woman from his past, and his outlook begins to brighten. A visit to the site of his wife’s murder leads him to a mysterious interloper (Mann) whom he believes to be her killer. Leonard decides to take justice into his own hands and things take a startling turn toward the unexpected. JASMINE is a must-see for all suspense film fans, with a convincing performance from Tobin as a man unhinged.

2015 PAAFF

Director Dax Phelan expected in attendance for post-film Q&A.

Narrative Program

Friday, Nov. 13 | 9:20â&#x20AC;&#x201C;11:10pm | I-House 80 mins | Horror Comedy | USA Director: Viet Nguyen Writers: Chris Dinh, Viet Nguyen Cast: Chris Dinh, Chris Riedell, Katie Savoy, Tim Chiou Ollie and Blair, an interracial couple of professional burglars, find themselves having to pull one last job, having fallen into debt after their last job goes comically, horribly awry.

P hiladelphia P remiere

Crush the skull

It sounds easy enough - breaking and entering a secluded vacation home in the mountains. But as they explore the house for a solution, it becomes clear that this seemingly beautiful and innocuous home is actually a sadistic torture den: a mindboggling maze of dead-ends and wrong turns with an unseen killer separating them from one another and stalking them from the shadows. Ollie, Blair, and the rest of the would-be robbers now have to fight for their lives.

2015 PAAFF

A compelling debut feature from Director Viet Nguyen adapted from his YouTube short of the same title, CRUSH THE SKULL will please seasoned Horror fans and newcomers to the genre alike. 21

SHORTS PROGRAM

FREE SCREENING

Sci-Fi & Horror Genre Shorts Friday, Nov. 13 | 11:30pm–12:45am I-House | 59 mins Back by popular demand, this year’s FREE program of Sci-Fi and Horror Genre shorts are sure to keep your spine tingling long after you leave the theater! Subjects include people trapped in rooms, telekinetic posession, and undead steampunk cowboy battles.

Enfilade

Enfilade Director: David Coyle | 10 mins

Savant: Kali 47 Director: Michael Dahlquist | 3 mins

A man awakens in a white room with two doors. Each door loops into the other. The only objects within the room are a red ball and a revolver containing a single bullet. How do you escape a loop?

Undead dark riders invade a wild west saloon, blasting away everyone in sight - now only a badass Native American warrior can save the town.

Safari Time *World Premiere* Director: Shaun Vivaris | 11 mins A devious little girl drags her younger cousin on a monster ‘safari adventure,’ with dire consequences. Thresher Director: Michael Dahlquist | 8 mins

thorn

2015 PAAFF 22

safari time

Savant: kali 47

A man locked in a room faces inter-dimensional terror.

Thresher

Yields Director: Takashi Hirose | 13 mins A young man’s first day at his new job is different than what he expected. The pay is great, but is it worth it? thorn Director: Soichi Umezawa | 14mins A high-school boy who is bullied by his classmates suddenly discovers a telekinetic ability.

yields

Help lead some new business to Philadelphia. Use your connections to bring the next major meeting of your company, volunteer organization, or association here. Theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll thank you, and so will your city.

Help lead some new business to Philadelphia. Use your connec bring the next major meeting of your company, volunteer orga or association here.

Discover why Philadelphia is the

ideal for city. great meetings and Theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll thank you, andsetting so will your conventions.

Discover why Philadelphia is the ideal setting for gre meetings and conventions. MeetPHL.com or 1-855-MEET-PHL

MeetPHL.com or 1-855-MEET-PHL

2015 PAAFF

Help lead some new business to Philadelphia. Use your connections to

SHORTS + PANEL DISCUSSION

FREE EVENT

MUSLIM YOUTH VOICES Saturday, Nov. 14 | 11:30am-1pm | IHouse Muslim Youth Voices Project (MYVP) is a three-year national initiative of the Center for Asian American Media (CAAM) to help amplify young people’s expression and celebration of Muslim cultures by giving them the essential tools to tell their stories and the stories of their communities — stories often invisible to the national public. This will be the World Premiere of the short films that were produced during the seven-day filmmaking workshop that MYVP hosted in Philadelphia during July 2015, followed by a panel

Shorts written and directed by Muslim youth in Philadelphia: In Food for Thought, a high school senior uncovers a sinister plot for world domination and stumbles onto a secret weapon. Will it be enough to save the world? While longing to travel, a young woman will Rediscover the city of her dreams. James may have finally met his match when a new kid appears in the neighborhood with a killer Crossover. And it’s actually lonely being Barry, the big bully in middle school. Thankfully, he gets unexpected help from Friends in Time. Youth filmmakers will be in attendance. This program will be followed by a thought-provoking discussion with award winning filmmaker Musa Syeed and other panelists on Muslim Americans and the media.

Musa Syeed is an independent filmmaker recognized both for his documentary and narrative works. His first feature film, VALLEY OF SAINTS, won the 2012 Audience Award at the Sundance Film Festival. He has taught film for Williams College and the Tribeca Film Institute. Syeed was a Fulbright Fellow in Egypt and is an alumnus of the Tisch School of the Arts and the Middle Eastern & Islamic Studies Department at New York University.

discussion with workshop instructors and members of the community.

2015 PAAFF

Moderated by Kar Yin Tham, an independent filmmaker based in San Francisco and Kuala Lumpur. Formerly Associate Director at the Center for Asian American Media, she has produced standards based curriculum aligned content for PBS Learning Media and supported the development of documentaries for public television. Kar Yin also coordinated the Muslim Youth Voices workshop in Philadelphia. 24

Narrative Program

Saturday, Nov. 14 | 1:20–3:30pm | I-House 105 mins | Dramedy | USA Director: Rucha Humnabadkar Writer: Rishi Bhilawadikar Cast: Ali Fazal, Melanie Chandra, Rajit Kapur, Omi Vaidya Young Silicon Valley software professional Vivek Pandit is poised to become a key hire at a promising healthcare startup, but when it is revealed that his work visa has less than a year remaining, the offer disappears. Having learned the hard way about the flaws in his “it’s just paperwork” mentality, Vivek battles forces beyond his control to get his visa extended, whether at his existing company or a new job. American in mind and Indian at heart, this is a contemporary story of ambition and ambivalence fueled by the uncertainty of immigration status that characterizes the dilemma of modern, cultural displacement.

P hiladelphia P remiere

for here or to go?

Set against the backdrop of the 2008 recession, FOR HERE OR TO GO? is a dramatic comedy about the many personal battles faced by immigrants living in America. 2015 PAAFF 25

Documentary Program | Pacific Islander Showcase

P H I L A D E L P H I A P remiere

in football we trust

Saturday, Nov. 14 | 3:50–5:40pm | I-House 87 mins | Documentary | USA Directors: Tony Vainuku, Erika Cohn This film transports viewers deep inside the tightlyknit and complex Polynesian community in Salt Lake City, Utah, one of the chief sources for the modern influx of Pacific Islander NFLers. With unprecedented access to its subjects and shot over a four- year time period, the film intimately portrays four young Polynesian men striving to overcome gang violence and near poverty through the promise of American football. Viewed as the “salvation” for their families, these young players reveal the culture clash they experience as they transition out of adolescence and into the high stakes world of collegiate recruiting and onto the path towards NFL stardom. IN FOOTBALL WE TRUST is an insightful and moving documentary feature film that explores the remarkable story behind the Polynesian Pipeline to the NFL in rich detail.

Presented by 2015 PAAFF 26

Documentary Program | PAAFF Pulse

Saturday, Nov. 14 | 6â&#x20AC;&#x201C;7:40pm | I-House 85 mins | Documentary | Mongolia, USA Director: Lauren Knapp In a country known for its nomadic traditions, a small group of rock musicians give Mongolia a 21st Century voice, combining traditional Mongolian instruments with Western music genres. Particularly in the capital city of Ulaanbaatar, rock music is seen as a catalyst for freedom, the vehicle for international curiosity, and now, the medium for a new kind of Mongolian nationalism.

P hiladelphia P remiere

Live From UB

LIVE FROM UB follows the story of one of Mongoliaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most promising independent bands, Mohanik, as they create a new sound for their country and discover what it means to be Mongolian today.

2015 PAAFF 27

Centerpiece EVENT

strength in numbers Music Videos, Live Performances, & Panel Discussion Saturday, Nov. 14 9-11:30pm | I-House *Ticket purchase includes FREE Strength In NUMBERS poster Guest curated by producer and emcee Scott CHOPS Jung of Phillyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s legendary Mountain Brothers, the first Asian American Hip Hop group signed to a major record label.

catzie vilayphonh

This multimedia program explores the Asian American Hip Hop movement through music videos and live performances by artists included in the seminal compilation album, Strength in NUMBERS. Featuring a Panel Discussion with Strength in NUMBERS creator CHOPS (whose producer credits include Kanye West, Snoop Dogg, Lil Wayne, and Nicki Minaj) and special guests.

chops

Moderated by: dr. James peterson Director of Africana Studies and Associate Professor of English, Lehigh University, James is also Founder of Hip Hop Scholars, Inc and a frequent Guest Commentator on MSNBC and CNN.

Panelists: scott chops jung Mountain Brothers, Producer and Emcee Chris peril-l wang Mountain Brothers, Emcee Steve styles infinite wei Mountain Brothers, Emcee catzie vilayphonh Yellow Rage, Spoken Word Artist

Featured artists in music video program: 2015 PAAFF

mountain brothers 28

Dr. James Peterson

Mountain Brothers Paul Kim & Dumbfoundead Bambu & Rocky Rivera Rekstizzy Ann One Level, Rob Campman, & Lil Crazed Mic Barz & Timothy Flu Drunken Tiger & yoon mi rae

Credits of LA singer/songwriter/ producer Ann One include work with Drunken Tiger, Yoon Mi Rae, Anderson Paak, and The Pharcyde. Ann had 2 acclaimed albums and many singles in South Korea, and independently released her latest single “WhatULike”. Her debut US EP “Butterfly Knife” drops late 2015. ann one

Rekstizzy

Performers: Native to Camden NJ, JL Jupiter is an emcee and vocalist whose style has been cultivated through over 13 years of music creation spanning 3 albums and 2 mixtapes, culminating in his first solo project Resident Alien. JL is also owner of Planetary P Films, a video production company specializing in music videos.

Known for on-stage antics and colorful lyrics, Queens rapper Rekstizzy challenges what it means to be Asian American in Hip Hop with songs like “Ugly But Kawaii”. See him on ISAtv as host of Kawaii For Men (@kawaiiformen) and with fellow rappers Awkwafina and Dumbfoundead in upcoming documentary Bad Rap.

jl jupiter

2015 PAAFF

joanlee

Long Beach CA’s Joanlee started young, singing & rapping in church, eventually writing poems, lyrics, and music. He’s built a widespread YouTube following and worked behind the scenes with many music industry artists. His album “On The Radar” due this year is a follow up to his 2011 debut “Under The Radar”.

Narrative Program

E ast coast P remiere

Jalal’s story

Sunday, Nov. 15 | 12–2:30pm | I-House 121 mins | Drama | Bangladesh Writer/Director: Abu Shahed Emon Cast: Toukir Ahmed, H M Akter, Mitali Das Just as Moses was found in the river Nile, an infant is rescued from a river and adopted by Miraj, Karim and Sajib in turns over the years, only to be abandoned at the various stages of his life. From the innocence of childhood to becoming a gangster as an adolescent, the unpredictable currents of Jalal’s journey prove that he is truly a child of the river. Recently chosen as the Official Selection to represent Bangladesh in the Foreign-Language Category of the 88th Academy Awards, Director Abu Shahed Emon is expected in attendance for the East Coast Premiere of this film.

2015 PAAFF 30

Narrative Program

Sunday, Nov. 15 | 2:50â&#x20AC;&#x201C;4:50pm | I-House 93 mins | Drama, Thriller | Pakistan Director: Afia Nathaniel Writer: Afia Nathaniel Cast: Samiya Mumtaz, Mohib Mirza, Saleha Aref Dukhtar (Daughter) is a drama/thriller set in Pakistan. A mother kidnaps her ten-year-old daughter to save her from the fate of a child bride. Their daring escape triggers a relentless hunt. As their pursuers close in on them, mother and daughter meet a cynical truck driver who proves to be an unlikely ally. Their destinies entwined, the trio embark on an epic journey through the stunning landscape of Pakistan, where the quest for love and freedom comes with a price.

P hiladelphia P remiere

dukhtar

Winner of Best World Feature at Sonoma Film Festival 2015 and selected to represent Pakistan in the Foreign Language Catergory at the 87th Academy Awards, DUKHTAR offers a compelling perspective on gender relations in an understudied region and the love between mother and daughter. Producer Shrihari Sathe expected in attendance for post-film Q&A. 2015 PAAFF 31

Documentary Program | PAAFF EATS

P hiladelphia P remiere

Off the menu

Sunday, Nov. 16 | 5:10-6:20pm | I-House 56 mins | TV Documentary | USA Director: Grace Lee Off the Menu: Asian America is a co-production between the Center for Asian American Media and KQED, featuring a one-hour PBS primetime special by award-winning filmmaker Grace Lee (American Revolutionary: The Evolution of Grace Lee Boggs), original stories, and web content. Grappling with how family, tradition, faith, and geography shape our relationships to food, OFF THE MENU takes the audience on a journey from Texas to New York and from Wisconsin to Hawaiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;i, using our obsession with food as a launching point to delve into a wealth of stories, traditions, and unexpected characters that help nourish this nation of immigrants. FREE tasting reception for ticket and badge holders after the film.

2015 PAAFF 32

Narrative Program

Sunday, Nov. 15 | 7:20–9:20pm | I-House 95 mins | Comedy | USA Director: Ravi Kapoor Writers: Ravi Kapoor, Meera Simhan Cast: Tiya Sircar, Hannah Simone, Kosha Patel Lily Prasad is graduating from her Orange County high school at the top of her class. And she has a plan, “The Lily Plan”: she will become a brain surgeon like her father; her sweet, lost boyfriend Karim will become a petroleum engineer; and they will get married, have kids, and live happily ever after. But the plan is thrown into confusion when Karim becomes smitten by and runs off with Reshma, the reigning Miss India National beauty queen. Not happy about losing at anything, Lily decides that she must become the new Miss India National!

P hiladelphia P remiere

Miss india america

MISS INDIA AMERICA explores the concept of ambition and what it means to win through a light comedic style that is accessible to both the South Asian community and wider American audience.

2015 PAAFF

Filmmakers expected in attendance for post-film Q&A Come early for a FREE catered reception open to all ticket and badge holders before the film. 33

F R EE S C R EENIN G S

community screening series Remembering the End of the Vietnam War 40 Years Later As part of our ongoing commitment to the community, PAAFF’15 will include a series of free screenings during the week of November 16 at several community-center locations in the South Philadelphia area. Specifically this program will focus on remembering the end of the Vietnam War, the catalyst that brought a majority of our Southeast Asian residents to this country forty years ago. The titles selected and venues included reflect the two main groups represented amongst our Southeast Asian community: Vietnamese and Cambodian. After each screening we will invite members of the community to participate in a postfilm discussion, led by the filmmaker or partner organization hosting us.

don’t think i’ve forgotten Monday, Nov. 16 | 6:30-9pm | PBR Temple 105 mins | Documentary | Cambodia, USA Director: John Pirozzi During the 60s and early 70s, as the war in Vietnam threatened its borders, a new music scene emerged in Cambodia that blended Western rock and roll with local traditions - creating a sound like no other. After the Khmer Rouge came to power on April 17, 1975, they began systematically eliminating intellectuals, artists, and musicians who were perceived as threats to the regime and erasing their work from local memory. This compelling documentary uncovers the forgotten history of the musicians whose works remain popular among the Cambodian diaspora. Director John Pirozzi and Lead Researcher LinDa Saphan expected in attendance for a post film Q&A.

journey from the fall Tuesday, Nov. 17 | 6:30-9pm | St. Thomas Aquinas 135 mins | Drama | USA, Vietnam Director: Ham Tran April 30, 1975 marked the end of Vietnam’s twodecade-old civil war and the start of the exodus of hundreds of thousands of refugees. Despite his allegiance to the toppled South Vietnamese government, Long Nguyen decides to remain in Vietnam. Imprisoned in a Communist re-education camp, he urges his family to make the escape by boat without him. Inspired by the true stories of Vietnamese refugees who fled their land after the fall of Saigon, and those who were forced to stay behind, Journey From The Fall follows one family’s struggle for freedom.

Community Partners

2015 PAAFF

This program is made possible through a grant from the Pennsylvania Council on the Arts. 34

journey from the fall

don’t think i’ve forgotten

OH, SAIGON

#NAILEDIT

the roots remain

oh, saigon

The roots remain

Wednesday, Nov. 18 | 6:30-9pm | Phila Praise Center

Thursday, Nov. 19 | 6:30-9pm | PBR Temple

59 mins | Documentary | USA, Vietnam

73 mins | Documentary | Cambodia, Canada

Director: Doan Hoàng Airlifted out of Vietnam on April 30, 1975, Doan Hoàng’s family was on the last civilian helicopter out of the country at the end of the war. Twentyfive years later, this documentary follows her family as they return to Vietnam. Watch as her father, a former South Vietnamese major, reunites with his brothers and is confronted by their political differences. Meanwhile Hoàng’s mother tries to reconcile with her half sister, who was separated during the escape. Shown with two shorts.

Directors: Jean-Sebastien Francoeur, Andrew Marchand-Boddy THE ROOTS REMAIN follows the story of Canadian-raised Cambodian French graffiti artist FONKi, as he reunites with his family, meets other leaders in Cambodia’s growing Hip Hop community, and dedicates a mural to his relatives in Phnom Penh who disappeared during the war. Crafting its narrative through Cambodian film archives as well as new original footage, this film chronicles the heartbreak of FONKi’s family during the genocide and bears witness to the post-genocide generation’s efforts to reclaim the artistic and cultural heritage of their ancestors and take ownership of their future.

bgztv

#NailedIt: Vietnamese & the Nail Industry A short doc by Director Adele Pham charting the success of Vietnamese Americans on today’s $8 billion dollar nail industry.

Director Tony Nguyen documents his Vietnamese

2015 PAAFF

Selected works by Lao American YouTube artist Bradly M Filion aka BGZTV to be shown in advance of this feature.

Giap’s Last Day at the Ironing Board Factory refugee mother’s final day working on an assembly line in Seymour, Indiana. giap’s last day

Asian Arts Initiative is proud to partner again with the Philadelphia Asian American Film Festival as a presenting venue. Congratulations to PAAFF for 8 years of programming for our communities! In addition to PAAFF film screenings, our 2015-2016 season is full of monthly performance showcases, gallery exhibitions, youth programs, and community workshops. Visit www.asianartsinitiative.org to see upcoming events!

2015 PAAFF

Asian Arts Initiative 1219 Vine Street Philadelphia, PA 19107 (215) 557-0455 or www.asianartsinitiative.org 36

SHORTS PROGRAM

Friday, Nov. 20 | 5–6pm Asian Arts Initiative | 35 mins This FREE shorts program offers a diverse selection of animated shorts that stretch the limits of the imagination. Animaton styles include CGI, watercolor, ink, and claymation. Filmmakers expected in attendance for post-film Q&A.

eggs

Eggs Director: Tomofumi Inoue | 7 mins

Up in the clouds Director: Ed Moy | 2 mins

One egg in the nest cannot seem to become a chick.

A teenager falls in love with flying while learning to drive a car with her dad.

Zodiac run Director: Gabriel Silva | 2 mins

waiting Director: Will Kim | 2 mins

A very persistent mouse runs in a race against several other animals from the Chinese zodiac.

A short watercolor-animation film about different reasons and ways of waiting, dedicated to the animator’s friend, Simon, who passed away after a long, brave, and patient fight with a rare illness.

Think ink Director: Wally Chung | 7 mins An animated film about outcasts and acceptance, à la psychology inkblots.

Junk girl Director: Mohammed Zare | 15 mins A claymation short inspired by Tim Burton’s poem of the same title about a lonely self aware pile of trash.

zodiac run

think ink

junk girl

2015 PAAFF

waiting

up in the clouds

FREE SCREENING

animation Shorts Program

SHORTS PROGRAM

FREE SCREENING 2015 PAAFF 38

international Shorts mooncake

Friday, Nov. 20 | 6:15â&#x20AC;&#x201C;7:45pm Asian Arts Initiative | 70 mins

This FREE program showcases a unique collection of foreign-produced films that explore either the shared experiences of Asians living in diaspora throughout the world or with international themes set in Asia.

quira

Mooncake Director: Francois Yang | 19 mins | France

quira Director: Breech Quincy | 14 mins | Philippines

Alex is reluctant to celebrate the moon festival with his family and would rather spend the evening with his French girlfriend. His heart is torn, however, when he rekindles his friendship with a childhood family friend.

A young woman from an indigenous tribe in the Philippines loses everything when conflict arises with another tribe. As she exacts her revenge, she begins to question her decisions.

dance! dance! dance! Director: Ken Ochiai | 22 mins | Belgium, Japan

the loyalist Director: Minji Kang | 19 mins | Switzerland

Furu, a young aspiring musician, dreams of a getaway from his small coastal town in Northern Iwate, Japan. He succeeds, but the price is very high. Too high. This is a story about falling in every sense of the word set to a soundtrack by one of Belgiumâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most popular bands.

A North Korean general checks in on his daughter at a Swiss boarding school to test her loyalty to her motherland.

dance! dance! dance!

the loyalist

ÂŠ2015 Porsche Cars North America, Inc. Porsche recommends seat belt usage and observance of all traffic laws at all times. *911 Carrera S model with PDK and Sport Chrono Package.

Surpasses expectations in 3.9 seconds. The Porsche 911 Carrera S Porsche of The Main Line is a proud supporter of the 2015 PAAFF.

2015 PAAFF

Porsche of The Main Line 4005 West Chester Pike Newtown Square, PA 19073 (610) 886-1000 www.porschemainline.com 39

Documentary Program | PAAFF EATS | PAAFF Pride

east coast P remiere

Changing season

Friday, Nov. 20 | 8–9:15pm | Asian Arts Initiative 57 mins | Documentary | USA Director: Jim Choi

“How many harvests do you have in you?” is the perennial question that echoes across the Masumoto Family peach farm. This feature doc chronicles a transitional year in the life of famed farmer, slow food advocate, and sansei David “Mas” Masumoto and his compelling relationship with daughter Nikiko, who returns to the family farm with the intention of stepping into her father’s work boots. With his daughter’s return, the family must navigate the implications of Mas’ 60th birthday and triple bypass surgery. Interspliced with moments of Nikiko’s razor sharp meditations on her family’s internment during WWII, CHANGING SEASON also explores her role as a queer, progressive farmer in the Central Valley.

2014 PAAFF 40

Narrative Program

Friday, Nov. 20 | 9:30â&#x20AC;&#x201C;10:50pm

Asian Arts Initiative 72 mins | Drama, Thriller | USA Writer/Director: Nelson Kim Cast: Aaron Yoo, Leonardo Nam, Jackie Chung A surreal drama about the clash of wills between two Korean-American cousins. Jamie (Aaron Yoo), a shy young law student hungry for a more vivid, risk-taking existence, visits his wealthy playboy cousin Will (Leonardo Nam) in New York. In his quest to emulate Will, Jamie sheds his old identity, but in a series of surprising twists, Jamieâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s adventure spirals out of control, and his dream of self-transformation becomes a nightmare that threatens to destroy him. SOMEONE ELSE marks the arrival of a fresh new vision in American independent cinema, a breakthrough in the representation of Asian Americans on screen, and a mind-bending puzzler in the mold of MEMENTO and MULHOLLAND DRIVE, taking the audience on a wild, unsettling ride in which nothing is as it first appears.

P hiladelphia P remiere

someone else

2015 PAAFF

Director Nelson Kim expected in attendance for post-film Q&A 41

Free Workshop

COMMUNITY PARTNERS

girls make better ninjas (or I can’t be angry, I’m asian): An exploratory Workshop on AAPI Feminism Saturday, Nov. 21 | 12-2pm | Asian Arts Initiative Must RSVP in advance to michelle@yellowrage.com

2015 PAAFF

In this workshop participants will be invited to engage in an open discussion about the viability of an AAPI feminist space. From the opening discussion, participants will be asked to determine a working definition of AAPI feminism and identify the needs that it would address, including intersectional issues that further complicate gender equality and access (race, culture, economics/class, education, language, intergenerational issues, sexual identity, media, etc). Through small group activities and large group discussion (modeled after the World Café), participants will begin the process of claiming space for an active approach to AAPI feminism. Group members will also propose ways to promote the continued development of an AAPI feminist space. The session will end with workshop time given to claiming voice through writing and sharing. All of the participants will be asked to consider how writing and sharing stories can initiate a sense of groundedness, healing, and empowerment. 42

Moderated by: dr. Michelle Myers Spoken Word Artist, Yellow Rage

session outcomes

Dr. Michelle Myers is a spoken word

1) Participants will engage in constructive dialogue about AAPI feminism and work collaboratively to plan ways to create a viable and ongoing space for its development.

poet, community activist, and educa-

2) Participants will be introduced to spoken word poetry and storytelling as forms of expression that have the potential to heal, empower, and connect people.

for appearing on the first season of

3) Participants will be empowered and inspired by each other’s stories and experiences and will consider how to claim their own voices in a form that will foster their own sense of empowerment

tor. She is a founding member of the Asian American female spoken word poetry group Yellow Rage, best known the critically-acclaimed HBO television series Russell Simmons Presents Def Poetry. As a solo artist, Michelle is dedicated to raising awareness about social injustices and building positive relationships across communities. Michelle was the recipient of a 2014 Transformation Award by the Leeway Foundation for her racial justice and community-building work through her spoken word poetry.

4) Participants will be encouraged to be active facilitators of AAPI feminism in their communities, on their campuses, and across organizations.

She also received an Honorable Mention for a 2015 Spoken Word

The workshop is open to people of all genders and racial/ethnic backgrounds, but it is geared towards AAPI women and transwomen.

Student Academic Computer Center Department at Commu-

Immersion Fellowship by The Loft Literary Center for a project focusing on mixed race identity. Currently, she is an Associate Professor and Reading/Writing Specialist in the Learning Lab/ nity College of Philadelphia as well as the faculty advisor of the Spoken Word Poetry Club; the club was presented with a 2015 Spotlight Award and was nominated for Club of the Year.

SHORTS PROGRAM

Saturday, Nov. 21 | 2:15–3:30pm Asian Arts Initiative | 61 mins Each of the films in this FREE program of shorts was either produced by women, star women in central roles, or deal with women’s issues. Filmmakers expected in attendance for post-screening Q&A.

split end

Split End Director: Eddie Shieh | 6 mins

how is how Director: Pheng H Tang | 7 mins

A young, single woman bored with her social life caters a party for a beautiful couple and meets the charismatic husband, who is also looking for something new.

While going through a career transition, a single Chinese immigrant mother becomes out of sorts with her life.

Romaine Director: Eiko Fan | 12 mins A short doc about Romaine Samworth who, despite being blind for over 85 years, uses vibrant colors to tell personal stories through sculpture. Hide and Seek Director: Garth Kravits | 4 mins romaine

A model struggles with her self image on account of Western-centric perceptions of beauty.

hide and seek

when mom visits Director: Chiung-wen Chang | 18 mins | PAAFF Pride A USA based Taiwanese lesbian reconnects with her conservative mother, who pays an abrupt visit from Taiwan. america 1979 Director: Lila Yomtoob | 14 mins With political tensions high during the Iran Hostage Crisis, an Iranian American girl struggles to find her identity in small-town America.

america 1979

2015 PAAFF

when mom visits

how is how

FREE SCREENING

women’s Shorts Program

Documentary Program | PAAFF EATS

Aroma from heaven

Saturday, Nov. 21 | 3:45â&#x20AC;&#x201C;5:15pm

Asian Arts Initiative 65 mins | Documentary | Indonesia Director: Budi Kurniawan The coffee industry has more than 300 years of history in Indonesia. At the heart of todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s industry lies the legacy of imperialism and colonization. Tradition, culture, arts, faith, and indigenous beliefs all contribute to the story of the Indonesian coffee industry. Featuring interviews with farmers, scientists, philosophers, academics, anthropologists, and business owners - this Feature doc takes the audience to places it has never been and presents a familiar subject in a completely different way. AROMA FROM HEAVEN is an utterly engaging film that poses the provocative question: how much do we know about the coffee that we consume every day, or the people whose lives revolve around supplying it to us?

2015 PAAFF

Director Budi Kurniawan and Producer Nicholas Yudifar expected in attendance for post-film Q&A Join us after the screening for a FREE Coffee Social open to all ticket and badge holders. 44

Coffee donated by:

Narrative Program

Saturday, Nov. 21 | 6-8pm

Asian Arts Initiative 97 mins | Romantic Comedy | USA Director: Lawrence Gan Writer: Lawrence Gan Cast: Anthony Ma, Michelle Farrah Huang, Arvin Lee Jake is a charming goofball and recent high school graduate who manages his familyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s bubble tea shop in Arcadia and loves his life and food to be sugar-coated. One day, Joanna, an ambitious young woman entrenched in the business world walks into his life and changes everything. As Jake and Joanna become emotionally entangled, tensions escalate between their familiesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; rival businesses. Which will survive - their relationship or their way of life?

Bubble Tea donated by:

philadelphia P remiere

Love arcadia

A story of two would-be lovers separated by class and family obligation, LOVE ARCADIA is relatable to both Asian Americans and mainstream audiences alike. 2015 PAAFF

Filmmakers expected in attendance for post-film Q&A. Join us before the screening for a FREE bubble tea from Ochatto for all ticket and badge holders! 45

Documentary Program | Pacific Islander Showcase

E ast coast P remiere

Waiting for john

Saturday, Nov. 21 | 8:15–10pm

Asian Arts Initiative 68 mins | Documentary | Vanuatu Director: Jessica Sherry When the American military landed on the remote island of Tanna—part of the Vanuatu island chain in the South Pacific—during World War II, the islanders were amazed by America’s fantastic cargo: planes, trucks, refrigerators, and canned food. They thought such goods could only come from the Gods. Led by the mysterious prophet John, a religion was born: the John Frum Movement, now considered the last surviving Cargo Cult. Waiting for John explores this extraordinary religion from the perspective of the last village of believers, as they struggle to preserve their culture in the modern world. In the process this film invites us to question the origins and nature of our beliefs.

Presented by 2015 PAAFF 46

Maybe it already has. Problem gamblers stand to lose a lot more than just their money. Gambling can cost them their home, their job, their familyâ&#x20AC;Ś even their freedom. If you think you or someone you love has a gambling problem, help is available. Visit PAProblemGambling.com to learn the warning signs, or call 1-877-565-2112.

2015 PAAFF

PAPROBLEMGAMBLING.COM

SHORTS PROGRAM

FREE SCREENING

Japan at war Shorts Program Sunday, Nov. 22 | 12–1:30pm Asian Arts Initiative | 69 mins This FREE program explores the Japanese experience during WWII. Beginning with a challenging film about comfort women in the Imperial Japanese Army, we then watch a Japanese American family returning home after being incarcerated in an internment camp, and conclude with a short doc about Japanese war brides who married American soldiers during the Occupation. Filmmakers expected in attendance.

the song of seashore

The song of seashore Director: Long Yang | 27 mins In the words of the director, “this film was made to commemorate the 70th anniversary of the end of the world’s anti-Fascist war and the many people who suffered.” An unflinching look at the brutality of the Japanese Imperial Army during WWII, this film tells the story of one young soldier’s attempt to save a Chinese ‘comfort woman’ in the last days of the war. Tadaima Director: Robin Takao D’Oench | 16 mins After the closure of the US Internment Camps at the end of World War II, a Japanese American family returns home and must find the strength to rebuild both their house and family amidst the emotional and physical destruction caused by the war.

2015 PAAFF

tadaima

fall seven times

fall seven times get up eight: the japanese war brides Directors: Lucy Craft, Karen Kasmauski, Kathryn Tolbert | 26 mins Despite lingering wartime enmity, tens of thousands of Japanese wives - the biggest influx of Asian women in U.S. history - crossed the Pacific to marry US servicemen. They began new lives in difficult circumstances and scattered across the country in places where they were often the first Japanese ever seen. What was it like to abandon family, friends and country, and marry a former enemy? Three biracial Japanese American women tell the story of their mothers who landed in 1950s America - the brides of young GIs brought home from an enemy nation.

Presented by

Narrative Program

Sunday, Nov. 22 | 1:45â&#x20AC;&#x201C;4pm Asian Arts Initiative 132 mins | Drama | Canada, Japan Director: Yuya Ishii Writer: Satoko Okudera Cast: Satoshi Tsumabuki, Kazuya Kamenashi, RyĂ´ Katsuji In the first years of the 20th century, thousands of Japanese set sail in search of work in far-off Canada. There they were confronted with the harsh realities of poverty and discrimination. Despite pervasive racism, Nisei (2nd-generation) Japanese Canadians formed a baseball team that inspired their community to persevere in a time of upheaval.

P hiladelphia P remiere

THE VANCOUVER ASAHI

A tale of sports miracles and glory based on the true story of a legendary pre-World War II baseball team in Canada, THE VANCOUVER ASAHI is set in a faithful reproduction of 1930s Vancouver Japantown.

Presented by

2015 PAAFF 49

Documentary Program

philadelphia P remiere

my voice, my life

Sunday, Nov. 22 | 4:30â&#x20AC;&#x201C;6:10pm

Asian Arts Initiative 91 mins | Documentary | Hong Kong Director: Ruby Yang Directed by Oscar-winning documentary filmmaker Ruby Yang, this film follows an unlikely group of misfit students from four of Hong Kongâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s underprivileged middle and high schools who are cast in an after-school musical theater program. From low self-esteem to blindness, each student confronts unique personal challenges in the process of developing his or her character. Brought together to sing, dance, and act, the students question their own abilities and balk at the spotlight, but Nick Ho, director of the production, holds onto the hope that his tough love approach will unite the students and bring out their inner performers. An inspiring coming-of-age film about overcoming the challenges of adolescence, MY VOICE, MY LIFE will be enjoyed by audiences of all ages.

2015 PAAFF 50

Closing Night Film

Sunday, Nov. 22 | 6:30-8:15pm

Asian Arts Initiative 82 mins | Documentary | USA Director: Nick Spark Meet Jessica Cox, a Filipina American born without arms, who became the first person licensed to pilot an airplane with her feet. Touching on issues that affect all communities, this film follows Jessica as she transforms from a motivational speaker to a mentor, and eventually into a leading advocate for people with disabilities.

philadelphia P remiere

Right Footed

Documentary subject Jessica Cox and her husband Patrick Chamberlain will be in attendance for a post-film Q&A, followed by a FREE catered reception for all ticket and badgeholders.

Presented by

closing reception 8:15-10pm

2015 PAAFF 51

Narrative Feature jury

Doc Feature jury

Short Film Jury

Susan Jin Davis Senior VP of Product and Operational Compliance, Finance at Comcast Cable and a big supporter of Asian American film.

Allen Chou President of Sales and Acquisitions at Passion River Films, a NYC based company that distributes documentaries and arthouse films for the US home video and international sales market since 1998.

Tetsuki Ijichi Independent film producer from Japan and President of Tidepoint Pictures that specializes in distributing Asian films across genre, from Horror to Documentary in North America and Internationally.

Melanie Forchetti Casting Director at Mike Lemon Casting, Melanie began her career at Lightstone Productions producing music videos then started her own production company and produced feature films including Prey for Rock ‘n Roll, ‘Til Proven Innocent, and Screw Cupid, as well as documentaries, and promotionals.

2015 PAAFF

Amira Smith Director of Marketing and Multicultural Affairs for the Greater Philadelphia Film Office (film.org), actress, and overall film enthusiast.

Philip Lam Independent film producer (Undoing, Santa Mesa) based in the New York City metropolitan area. Hye-jung park Associate Director and Program Manager at the Scribe Video Center, Hye-Jung produced several documentaries that include The Women Outside, North Korea: Beyond DMZ, and The #7 Train: An Immigrant Journey, all of which aired on PBS.

Maori Holmes Originally from Los Angeles, Maori Holmes is a producer, curator, and the Founding Artistic Director of the BlackStar Film Festival (blackstarfest.org). Maori received her MFA in Film & Media Arts from Temple University and has screened her own film work internationally. Marángeli Mejía rabell Puerto Rico-born Director of PHL Latino Film Festival, Marángeli is also Director of CED at the Village of Arts and Humanities. She also curates/produces arts & culture programs and special events as a cofounder of AfroTaino Productions.

We put our energy into the arts. Arts and culture organizations have an impact of more than $1 billion on our local economy. Through PECO-sponsored programs we help people of all ages and backgrounds enjoy and experience the arts throughout our region. PECO is proud to support the 2015 Philadelphia Asian American Film Festival. Find out more at www.peco.com/community

2015 PAAFF

ÂŠ PECO Energy Company, 2015

2015 PAAFF

PHOTO BY Malisa Kheuangthirath 54

VIJAY KRISHNA MOHAN SEPTEMBER 2, 1988 - MAY 10, 2015 Friend, brother, son, lover, colleague, activist, filmmaker, musician, author - a beloved member of the PAAFF staff taken far too young. His belief that it is possible to build a better community through the arts was a shining beacon of hope in a world, and particularly an industry renowned for its callousness. With much love, we dedicate in his honor the Vijay Mohan Social Change Award, to be given to the film or filmmaker who best embodies Vijayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s spirit of transformative change through media, to be awarded at PAAFFâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;15 and all future festivals that Philadelphia Asian American Film & Filmmakers will host.

2015 PAAFF 55

THANK YOUS!

2015 PAAFF

Comcast NBC10 Telemundo 62 Comcast Spectacor Aetna HBO Wells Fargo PHL Diversity PA Dept of Drug & Alcohol Programs PECO Jefferson Hospital Pacific Islanders in Communications GP Asian Studies Consortium Hepatitis B Foundation Samuel S. Fels Fund Pennsylvania Council on the Arts Greater Philadelphia Film Office International House Asian Arts Initiative Preah Buddha Rangsey Temple St. Aquinas Center Philadelphia Praise Center Theatre N BarLy Asian American Sports Bar Tokio HeadHouse Izakaya Jay Social XFinity Asia Sheraton University City Phila Chinatown Development Corp Philadelphia Corp. for the Aging Clear Channel Radio Porsche of the Main Line CBL Wine Co. Yards Brewing Co.

Ballard Spahr Andrews & Ingersoll, LLP Boat People SOS Cambodian Association of GP Japan America Society of GP SEAMAAC JACL Philadelphia Chapter Organization of Chinese Americans Pan Asian Assoc. of Greater Phila. Asian Am. Chamber of Commerce SAADA MOIMA Asian Americans United Asian Americans Advancing Justice Philadelphia Film Society NAAAP Philadelphia PAACH WHIAAPI Governor’s Advisory Comm’n on Asian American Affairs Mayor’s Comm’n on Asian American Affairs Mayor Michael Nutter Governor Tom Wolf Kiran Ahuja Sharon Pinkenson Joan Bressler Nicole Shiner Amira Smith Cynthia Gouw Loraine Ballard Morrill Nina Ahmad

Thom Cardwell James Duggan Tiffany Chang-Lawson Chef Joseph Poon Greg DeShields Rina Hayashi Gayle Isa Nancy Chen Melody Wong Loc Nguyen Jae Shim Vanessa Ramalho Drake Nakaishi Scott Nakamura Hiro Nishikawa Councilman David Oh Dr. Aida Rivera Andy Toy Dr. Walter Tsou Fernando Trevino Kazumi Teune Aaron Dilliplane Denise Nakano Sarah Christy Ronaldo Ribeiro James Fraatz Jesse Pires Robert E. Cargni Monique Lau Andrea Agnew Susan Jin Davis Johnnie Giles

Kristina Chang Rina Hayashi Marife Domingo Allen Chou Philip Lam Melanie Forchetti Tetsuki Ijichi Marangeli Mejia Rabell Hye-Jung Park Maori Holmes Sarah Mueller Dan Tabor Scott Jung Michelle Myers Kar Yin Tham Peter Feng April Torres Mary Johnson Michael Dennis Thoai Nguyen Bethany Welch Aldo Siahaan Sokmala Chy Benjamin Barnett Rob Levin Tanya Hall Fran Griesing Rahat Babar Sharon Yoshida Peter Van Do Richard Perelman, Esq. Christopher Jones, Esq.

Japan America Society of Greater Philadelphia

Pacific Arts Movement Blackstar Film Festival PHL Latino Film Festival Reelblack Presents PIFVA qFlix Philadelphia Black Film Advisory Commission PhillyCAM Scribe Video Center Lunchbox Communications Philadelphia Museum of Art Free Library of Philadelphia Village or Arts and Humanities Leeway Foundation Drexel University University of Pennsylvania Arcadia University Chinese Christian Church & Center Philadelphia Suns The Clef Club Luna Theater Company Plays and Players Franklin Institute Franklin Square Greg Pak Harmony for Peace Foundation Ocean City Restaurant Joe Kim Madame Saito NMAJH Old City Aikido POW! Entertainment

フィラデルフィア日米協会

japanphilly.org

2015 PAAFF

Cliff Song Alison Scott Chi Dang Tom Kehoe, Jr. Tony Jones Nathan Lerner LaTrina Ferguson Jennifer Barton Yuka Kobayashi Jason Perna John Green Samip Mallick Jackie Borock Dafna Yachin Gretjen Clausing Laura Deutch Antoine Haywood Rob Levin Ah-Young Kim Catzie Vilayphonh Buu and Tami Ly Harry Leong Carol Wong Michelle Frentrop Nick Koenig Phil Yu Masashi Niwano Don Young Stephen Gong Brian Hu John Chung Center for Asian American Media

Download the album on iTunes 57

2015 PAAFF

Wilmingtonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Foreign & Independent Film Cinema

theatren.org 2015 PAAFF 59

2015 PAAFF

2015 PAAFF 61

2015 PAAFF

Eastern Tower Community Center EB-5 Opportunity @ 1001 Vine Street Upcoming seminars (yet to be determined)

EB-5 移民投資項目

Global City Regional Center, LLC 2 Penn Center 1500 John F Kennedy Blvd., Ste 1130 Philadelphia, PA 19102-1752 Tel: 215-662-5500 Tel: 215-922-2156 中文 http://www.globalcityeb5.us/

UNIVERSITY CITY HOTEL

Proud Partner

of the Philadelphia Asian American Film Festival

Experience the culturally rich and diverse neighborhood of University City with us! • Located on the campus of the University of Pennsylvania and adjacent to Drexel University • Beautifully-appointed guest rooms • Complimentary wireless Internet access • 37" HD flat-screen TVs • 24-hour state-of-the-art fitness center • Sang Kee Noodle House Restaurant • Private, flexible meeting and banquet rooms perfect for hosting memorable events • A leader in sustainability intiatives including: Green Key Certified, Make a Green Choice Program and Clean the World

Sheraton Philadelphia University City Hotel 2015 PAAFF

3549 Chestnut Street • Philadelphia, PA 19104 • 215.387.8000

www.PhiladelphiaSheraton.com

Congratulations, PAAFF for 8 years of great films!

Building Stronger Communities

Founded in 1929, the JACL is the oldest and largest Asian American civil rights organization in the United States. The JACL monitors and responds to issues that enhance or threaten the civil and human rights of all Americans and implements strategies to effect positive social change, particularly to the Asian Pacific American community. JACL Philadelphia commends the Philadelphia Asian American Film Festival for their work. Become a member today at www.jacl.org/member/

SEAMAAC, Inc. 215-467-0690 1711 S. Broad Street (Main Office) 2110 S. 8th Street (Satellite Office)

Over 60? PCA is here for you. We know how important it is to maintain a dignified and fulfilling life. For information about resources and services to help you remain independent, call the PCA Helpline: 215-765-9040.

2015 PAAFF

www.pcaCares.org

seamaac.org facebook.com/seamaac twitter.com/seamaac

2015 PAAFF 65

2015 PAAFF

Stay over at Tokio Bed & Breakfast $80-$100 / night tax included 122 Lombard St, Phila PA 19147 | 215.922.1223 | queenofsushi.com 66

2015 PAAFF 67

M ed ce s s ty Ac i n 0 u 3 29/ omm hia C ri zo n e p l V e d & 6 Phila 6/96 ast 6 Co m c

2015 PAAFF 68

2015 PAAFF 69

As Philly’s premier Asian American owned sports bar, Bar Ly is proud to support PAAFF as the oﬃcial Aer Party venue of the 2015 Festival.

PAAFF Badge holders and ticket stubs get 10% oﬀ through Nov 22

Daily Happy Hour 3:30-6:30 Sun-urs: 10-Midnight $3 Drinks & Appetizers 2015 PAAFF

101 N 11th St, Phila PA 19107 215.922.2688 | bar-ly.com 70

60 Draft Beers | 20 HD TVs

InternatIonal House PHIladelPHIa Is Proud to Partner wItH tHe PHIladelPHIa asIan amerIcan fIlm festIval. We join you in celebrating cinema focused on work by and about people of Asian descent in a global context.

internAtionAl house philAdelphiA – Where the World lives and learns 2015 PAAFF

student housing, international cinema, Arts and culture, and more W W W. i h o u s e p h i l ly. o r g • f o l l o W u s o n fA c e b o o k , t W i t t e r , A n d i n s tA g r A m @ i h o u s e p h i l ly 71