2025 Documentary Fund Open Call Starts September 20

Thursday, September 19, 2024

 


Go get it!

CAAM’s 2025 Documentary Fund, supported by the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, is now accepting submissions from independent producers creating films that highlight the Asian American experience. Eligible documentaries can apply for production or post-production funding, with awards ranging from $10,000 to $50,000, and must be intended for public media broadcast or online distribution. The submission window opens on Friday, September 20, 2024, at 12 a.m. PDT, and closes on Sunday, October 20, 2024, at 11:59 p.m. PDT. 

https://caamedia.org/blog/2024/09/18/caam-documentary-fund-open-call-apply-september-20-october-20-2024/

Awesomeness To Blue Eye Samurai And Your Emmy Win (I Will Watch You Soon)

Tuesday, September 17, 2024

 

Premise

During Japan's Edo period (17th century), half-white half-Japanese onna-musha (female warrior) Mizu (meaning water) quests for vengeance against four white men, one of whom is her father, who illegally remained in Japan during the closing of its borders by the Tokugawa shogunate.[5]

Voice cast

Main

  • Maya Erskine as Mizu, a female mixed-race blue-eyed bushi.[6] Her experiences of discrimination as a mixed-race Japanese child have left her cold, bitter and vengeful. Forced by her mother to disguise herself as a boy so as not to be found, she chooses to maintain her disguise into adulthood to pursue her path of revenge more freely.
  • George Takei as Seki, Princess Akemi's male tutor. He sympathizes with Akemi's situation and later takes steps to ensure her freedom.
  • Masi Oka as Ringo, an optimistic, handless male cook who idolizes Mizu. Despite Mizu initially not wanting a companion, she later tolerates Ringo. He proves surprisingly helpful and loyal to Mizu.
  • Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa as Master Eiji, a blind swordsmith who raised Mizu. He was the first person to show Mizu kindness, partially because he cannot see her; as a result, Mizu holds deep respect for him, referring to him as "Swordfather".
  • Brenda Song as Princess Akemi, the pampered but strong-willed daughter of a nouveau riche lord. She is in love with Taigen and resents her father's control over her and seeks a life of independence.
  • Darren Barnet as Taigen, a promising but arrogant male swordsman of humble origins. He is in love with Princess Akemi and harbors a strong resentment towards Mizu, which has lasted since their childhoods, and later seeks revenge after being humiliated in a duel which cuts off his engagement with Akemi.
  • Randall Park as Heiji Shindo, Fowler's nominal jailor and accomplice.
  • Kenneth Branagh as Abijah Fowler, an Irish smuggler who is allied with the Shogun, in secret defiance of Japan's Sakoku closed-door policies. He plans to overthrow the current Shogun and replace him with a leader who will open Japan to outside influence.

Ronny Chieng And The Daily Show Emmy Win

Tuesday, September 17, 2024

 







Quiz Lady By Jessica Yu With Sandra Oh And Awkwafina Wins Best TV Movie

Tuesday, September 17, 2024

 

Absolutely loved this movie and thought it should have gotten more fanfare when it came out, so I was completely excited to see that it had won an Emmy for everyone involved.

And that it was Sandra Oh's first Emmy Win (and how crazy...and sad...is that).



Here's a quick paragraph from a NY Times article:

Jenny (Sandra Oh), a 40-something ball of chaos, is introduced in “Quiz Lady” the way you might expect of someone whose life savings are contingent on a hazardous fish bone-related lawsuit against a chain restaurant called Choochie’s: off in the distance, skittering heedlessly across the street before she’s suddenly struck by a car. Naturally, she pops right back up before having a meltdown over the mechanical entrance to the senior home where her younger sister, Anne (Awkwafina), is frustratingly watching from inside.

You're A First: Anna Sawai Wins Outstanding Lead Actress In A Drama Series Emmy Award For Shogun + Spoiler

Tuesday, September 17, 2024

 


Congratulations to Anna Sawai for winng the Emmy for Outstanding Lead Actress In A Drama Series and being the first Asian actor to win that award.

I thought it could possibly be Maya Erskine--and I really liked that show (I did not watch Shogun yet but I will...in time). 

And my understanding is that she won't be back though....

Here's some more of Anna talking about bringing her mom to the awards show and what she was thinking about when accepted the award.


Jenn Tran Speaks Out + Next Phase Is DWTS

Friday, September 06, 2024

 


She definitely got he shaft on this one and while I did not follow all of it, I have to say that the finale was crazy that she had to sit there next D...whatever his name is. Good for Tran tasking him on the finale though and sticking up for herself--as a strong Vietnamese American woman--and moving on, and up.

Next for Jenn Tran is going on DWTS, which I will definitely tune in for to see how she does.

P.S. If any young guy out there thinks a woman shouldn't propose to him....I just hope you find your way.





A Quick Letter To John McWhorter On Black Kamala And Joy (aka A Real "Dear John" Letter)

Monday, September 02, 2024

Dear John,

In your article in the NY Times on THE JOY you write that "That’s because a good deal of the joy people keep talking about is a result of one fact: that Harris is Black."

I'm not disagreeing with that in some senses, but you also leave out that she's Asian American as well. 

South Asian.

And there's a LOT OF JOY THERE FOR THAT FACT TOO.

I just find it interesting that in an article that talks about the myopicness of only thinking about race and not as you say thinking about "assessing her as an individual" that you would leave that out.

You may not be mixed, bi-cultural, etc.--but for those of us who are (myself cultural as a Transracial and International adoptee, Vietnamese War Orphan, and Vietnamese American) -- we do have a unique look on the world because we have to traverse between multiple worlds.

I think it says something about us and how we navigate the world and that this one thing alone, does in fact make us unique and can be a SINGULAR SOURCE OF JOY.

That's it.

Hope that guinea pig is eating good.

Il Slanty

I ask ChatGPT If I Should Buy A Tesla If I Don't Agree With Elon

Saturday, August 24, 2024

And here is my conversation with ChatGPT:

I dont agree with Elon Musk on DEI, Unions, and Race. Should I buy a Tesla? What are reason I should or should not based on that?

Reasons You Might Avoid Buying a Tesla:

  1. Support for the CEO's Views: By purchasing a Tesla, you are indirectly supporting Elon Musk and his leadership. If his views on DEI, unions, and race are strongly opposed to your values, this could be a significant factor in your decision.

  2. Company Culture: Some concerns have been raised about Tesla's workplace culture, including allegations of racial discrimination and a lack of union representation. If these issues are important to you, they might influence your decision.

  3. Alternative EV Options: There are other electric vehicles (EVs) available from companies with different leadership philosophies or stronger commitments to DEI and union support. Considering these alternatives could align your purchase with your values.

Reasons You Might Still Consider Buying a Tesla:

  1. Product Quality and Innovation: Tesla is known for leading in electric vehicle technology, with high-performing cars that have strong ranges, fast charging capabilities, and advanced software. If the quality of the product is a priority, this might outweigh your concerns about leadership.

  2. Environmental Impact: Tesla’s mission to accelerate the world's transition to sustainable energy could align with your environmental values. If reducing your carbon footprint is a key concern, Tesla's focus on electric vehicles and renewable energy might be appealing.

  3. Resale Value and Brand Reputation: Teslas tend to have strong resale values and a loyal customer base. This could be a practical consideration if you’re looking at the long-term financial aspects of your purchase.

  4. Personal Separation of Product and Leadership: Some people choose to separate the product from its leadership, focusing solely on the utility, quality, and features of the car rather than the CEO’s views. If you can do this, you might still consider buying a Tesla.

Conclusion:

The decision ultimately comes down to how strongly you feel about aligning your purchases with your values versus the practical benefits of the product. If your disagreement with Musk on DEI, unions, and race is a core issue for you, you might want to consider alternative EVs that better align with your principles. If the quality of the product and its benefits outweigh these concerns for you, then purchasing a Tesla might still be a valid option.


Random Thoughts On The Rule Of 3rds In Photography And Art

Friday, August 23, 2024

Had this thing with someone who was older, white, and an adoptive parent, which isn't altogether bad--but I want to tell you, just in case you needed that extra push, that it's okay to push back on some of these ideas because they are Westernized. It doesn't mean that they are bad, but it doesn't mean, just like other things, they are the only thing (and let's not forget about simple center position).

Some text below with a little help from my AI buddy (and edited of course by me).

  • Japanese Art & Aesthetics: In traditional Japanese art, concepts like ma (space between objects) and wabi-sabi (appreciation of imperfection and transience) are central. Japanese compositions often emphasize asymmetry and negative space, which can differ significantly from the balance-oriented rule of thirds in Western art.

  • Islamic Art: Islamic art places a strong emphasis on intricate geometric patterns, symmetry, and calligraphy, reflecting a different set of style. 

  • Indian Art: In traditional forms like the Mughal and Rajput painting, there's often a strong emphasis on narrative and storytelling. The compositions can prioritize hierarchical scaling, where more important figures are depicted larger.

  • Chinese Art: Traditional Chinese landscape painting has often utilized vertical composition with depth and atmospheric POV. Elements can be guided by principles of feng shui or Taoist philosophies, different from the rule of thirds.


Alex Karp + Passing + Thoughts On Race

Sunday, August 18, 2024

I was reading this article in the NY Times, and while not blended racially in the same way, culturally I am, so I understand there is ambiguity in ones definition of who they are, but I do wonder, if you can pass as White vs Black or Asian or LatinX--does race matter as much to you?

Here's the snippet of the article I think is worth mentioning as I ask this question and taking into consideration Karp is a very powerful billionaire I wonder what effect is has on the world.

From the NY Times article at https://www.nytimes.com/2024/08/17/style/alex-karp-palantir.html:

Given Mr. Karp’s blended racial identity, I wondered how he felt about Mr. Trump’s attack on the vice president’s heritage.

“I think people are most fascinated by the fact of this whole Black-Jewish thing,” he said. “I tend to be less fascinated by that.”

He added: “I think that people always expect me somehow to see the world in one way or another, and I don’t really understand what that means. I see the world the way I see it. I think, at the end of the day, if people want to choose what their identity is, then they choose it, and that’s their definition.”

I note that he recently made an elite list of Black billionaires.

He shrugged. “Some Black people think I’m Black, some don’t,” he said. “I view me as me. And I’m very honored to be honored by all groups that will have me.”

He added: “I do not believe racism is the most important issue in this country. I think class is determinate, and I’m mystified by how often we talk about race. I’m not saying it doesn’t exist. I’m not saying people don’t have biases. Of course, we all do, but the primary thing that’s bad for you in this culture is to be born poor of any color.”

Just some random thoughts I was having.


Weekend In Taipei - Official Trailer (2024) Luke Evans, Sung Kang, Gwei Lun-mei

Wednesday, August 14, 2024


I'm just going to have to wait to see this one to pass judgement.

Crossing fingers.

 

Awkwafina + John Cena = Jackpot!

Wednesday, August 14, 2024


I have not seen this, so I can't say for sure if it's really gold, but....you it's there for you to watch it and decide for yourself.

Do you think they kiss?

Will the jokes be good?

Again - you will have to watch.

 

Community Time: Noah Lyles Wins Gold!

Sunday, August 04, 2024

Love it. Be brash. Be bold. Do your thing young man.

 

WIRED + Wicked + Jon M. Chu + Technology, Hollywood, AI, And That Moment At USC

Thursday, August 01, 2024

There is a great article up at WIRED interviewing Jon M. Chu (along with some great photos) talking about his family, growing up in a Chinese restaurant, the realization of being in a bubble concerning being an Asian American man, how technology helped shape him, and his new memoir.

Here's a quick excerpt:

You were inspired by Steve Jobs.

I put the WIRED cover, the one with the crown of thorns around the Apple logo, on my wall in college when Steve Jobs came back, and I said, “Everybody, just watch.”

Jobs had a reputation for being monomaniacal, impatient, and petulant. How do you feel about that leadership style?

Yeah. I’m sure we have very different styles, but that doesn’t take away from what he created. I’ve seen from every introduction—from the iMac to the iPod to the iPhone—how the public didn’t believe in that vision at the time. And then watching him push through. It wasn’t about the showiness of the product or about himself. It was always about the solution. There was a purity to that that I admire. I don’t believe human beings are geniuses. We get into situations when things align, and genius comes out of us.

Read the article in full here: https://www.wired.com/story/jon-chu-director-wicked-crazy-rich-asians-silicon-valley/

Asian American Action Fund PAC Endorses Kamala Harris for President in 2024

Tuesday, July 30, 2024

July 2024
Washington, D.C. - 

The Asian American Action Fund PAC (AAAFund) is proud to announce its full endorsement of Kamala Harris for President of the United States in the 2024 presidential election. Albert Shen, AAAFund national chair and its Board of Directors, expressed the organization's enthusiastic support for Harris, recognizing her unwavering commitment to justice, equality, and the diverse communities that make up our nation. "Kamala Harris has consistently demonstrated her dedication to the values we hold dear: equality, opportunity, and justice for all. 

Her track record speaks volumes about her capability to lead our country towards a more inclusive and prosperous future. We are proud to stand with her and are confident in her ability to address the needs and concerns of the AANHPI community and all Americans," said Shen. In his statement, Shen also acknowledged the significant contributions of President Joe Biden: "We deeply appreciate the 50 years of public service by President Biden and his unwavering support for the AANHPI communities during his presidency. 

His leadership has paved the way for a more inclusive America, and we are grateful for his dedication to advancing the rights and opportunities of all citizens." As a prominent figure and candidate for the presidency, Harris' campaign represents a historic moment for the AANHPI community and the nation. AAAFund is committed to mobilizing its members and supporters to ensure a successful campaign for Harris, emphasizing the importance of representation and leadership that reflects the diversity of America. 

This endorsement aligns with the recent support declared by the ASPIRE PAC, further solidifying the unified stance of the AANHPI community in this crucial election. AAAFund looks forward to working closely with Harris’ campaign and other allied organizations to promote a vision of America where every individual, regardless of their background, has the opportunity to succeed and thrive.