A Sisterhood Forged in Story: The Women of “The Joy Luck” Club Reunite

For a generation of Asian Americans, The Joy Luck Club was more than just a movie—it was a revelation. I was still a teenager when it came out, and I vividly remember the seismic shift it caused in the way I saw myself and my community. Here was a Hollywood film—backed by a major studio, no less—with an all-Asian cast, speaking English, talking about their … Continue reading A Sisterhood Forged in Story: The Women of “The Joy Luck” Club Reunite

Ben L.May 1, 2025May 2, 2025Leave a comment

Film Reviews, Interviews, Reviews

Shirley Chen and Amy Wang Deliver SXSW Winner with Satirical, Genre-Bending Thriller Film ‘Slanted’

Debuting at SXSW, Amy Wang’s “Slanted” delivers a sharp and fearless take on identity, assimilation, and self-worth, wrapped in dark humor and body horror. The film, which won Best Narrative Feature, cements Wang as a filmmaker to watch, tackling heavy themes with a biting satirical edge. Anchored by Shirley Chen, McKenna Grace, Vivian Wu, Maitreyi Ramakrishnan, and Amelie Zilber, “Slanted” takes well executed risks in … Continue reading Shirley Chen and Amy Wang Deliver SXSW Winner with Satirical, Genre-Bending Thriller Film ‘Slanted’

Ben L.March 15, 2025Leave a comment

Events, Interviews

Unforgettable Gala 2024: A Celebration of AAPI Voices in Hollywood

On Saturday night, leaders in the Asian American film and television industry descended on the Beverly Hilton to celebrate the Unforgettable Gala, produced by Character Media. Continue reading Unforgettable Gala 2024: A Celebration of AAPI Voices in Hollywood

Ben L.December 18, 2024February 1, 2025Leave a comment

Interviews

Blending Culture And Heart: Pat Boonnitipat’s ‘How to Make Millions Before Grandma Dies’ Explores Love And Legacy

In his feature directorial debut, Pat Boonnitipat introduces himself as a filmmaker with a keen eye for emotional depth in How to Make Millions Before Grandma Dies. Pat Boonnitipat delves into the origins of the film, the artistic challenges of adapting such a personal story, and his perspective on the transition from television to feature filmmaking. Continue reading Blending Culture And Heart: Pat Boonnitipat’s ‘How to Make Millions Before Grandma Dies’ Explores Love And Legacy

Ben L.December 12, 2024February 1, 2025Leave a comment

Interviews

‘Unprisoned’ Star Jee Young Han on Seeking Identity in Hulu Comedy’s Second Season

Jee Young Han spoke with Awards Focus about how Esti evolves in Season Two, the joys of working with acting legends Delroy Lindo and Kerry Washington, and why it is so important to get to tell her the stories in ‘Unprisoned’. Continue reading ‘Unprisoned’ Star Jee Young Han on Seeking Identity in Hulu Comedy’s Second Season

Ben L.July 18, 2024February 1, 2025Leave a comment

Interviews

Daniel Wu On Reinventing the Monkey King In ‘American Born Chinese’

“It really is why I’m doing this (series) now,” shares actor Daniel Wu. “As we’ve talked about the importance of representation, it’s the next generation of actors that are going to get the chance to represent our stories to the kids of tomorrow.” Continue reading Daniel Wu On Reinventing the Monkey King In ‘American Born Chinese’

Ben L.June 24, 2023February 2, 2025Leave a comment

Film Reviews, Reviews

‘Past Lives’ – A Hauntingly Beautiful Meditation on Love, Fate, and Identity

As we head into the Oscars, “Past Lives” is my pick for Best Picture—even though it’s unlikely to win. Months after watching it, the film still lingers in my mind. It’s the kind of movie that doesn’t just end when the credits roll. It stays with you, creeping into quiet moments of reflection, making you think about the choices you’ve made, the paths you didn’t … Continue reading ‘Past Lives’ – A Hauntingly Beautiful Meditation on Love, Fate, and Identity

Ben L.March 7, 2023March 21, 2025Leave a comment