3X: 2 Girls | 1 Asian + Midseason Episodes

Wednesday, December 30, 2015



Been a while since I posted up on the Webisodes of 2 Girls | 1 Asian and wanted to make sure and post up a few of their latest episodes with two new ones for this month.

2 Girls | 1 Asian Midseason, Episode 1: My Bloody Valentine!




2 Girls | 1 Asian Midseason, Episode 2: Freaky Friday!



2 Girls | 1 Asian Midseason, Episode 3: Orphan's Christmas!

Netflix's Marco Polo Adds Michelle Yeoh

Monday, December 28, 2015

Speaking of Michelle Yeoh...she joins the cast of Marco Polo.

Slants Get Overturn Of USPTO On Their Name

Monday, December 28, 2015

If you've been frolicking during the holidays like I have with all the elves and re-watches of CTHD (because we all love Michelle Yeoh) you may have missed this tidbit of news where the US Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit overturned USPTO's decision to allow the The Slants to trademark their name.

The Trademark Trial and Appeal Board (TTAB) denied The Slants a trademark registration under an old section of trademark law that denies trademark registration to marks that the US Patent and Trademark Office considers disparaging. Now, the US Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit, sitting en banc, has struck down not just the USPTO decision about The Slants, but the entire section of the Lanham Act that bars "disparaging" trademarks. The decision is sure to have repercussions for other owners of controversial trademarks—most notably, the Washington Redskins, a team that was stripped of its trademark rights but is continuing its fight at the US Court of Appeals for the 4th Circuit.

"Courts have been slow to appreciate the expressive power of trademarks," wrote US Circuit Judge Kimberly Moore in the majority opinion (PDF). "Words—even a single word—can be powerful. Mr. Simon Shiao Tam named his band THE SLANTS to make a statement about racial and cultural issues in this country.... Many of the marks rejected as disparaging convey hurtful speech that harms members of oft-stigmatized communities. But the First Amendment protects even hurtful speech."

Tam, the front man for the dance-rock band, has said he chose the mark to "own" the stereotype and has said that reaction from the Asian community has been "very positive."
Some more thoughts and info on this in a later post.

End Of An Era: LA Times + KoreAm Journal

Monday, December 28, 2015

There's a good article down at the LA Times on James Ryu and KoreAm Journal. I like how Ryu has talked about the magazine archiving the Korean American experience - because it's not just telling something through articles and essays, but that archival of what was happening when and where (at least through the lens of the editors) - and it's been a magazine I've known many people to either read religiously or at the very least know about (and which printed it's last issue this month).

When he started the publication, Ryu was creating something his younger self would have wanted while growing up in remote parts of Ohio and Oregon, where there were few Asian or Korean Americans. At the end of its first year, Ryu wrote to readers that KoreAm was "serving the needs of our community by communicating between the Korean- and English-speaking Korean Americans." It was only in hindsight, going through the trove of past issues to put together the last, retrospective edition, that he realized KoreAm's role was "archiving the history" of the Korean American experience, Ryu said.
Read it in full.

Are You Kidding Me? #istandwithrosalindbrewer #rosalindbrewerisnotracist #shopatsamsclubifyouwant

Wednesday, December 23, 2015



Here's some excerpts from the Washington Post (originally from CNN) which caused all this controversy:

“My executive team is very diverse, and I make that a priority,” she told Harlow. “I demand it of my team and within the structure. And then, every now and then, you have to nudge your partners, and you have to speak up and speak out. And I try to use my platform for that. … I try to set an example. I try to mentor many women inside my company and outside the company because I think it’s important.

“And I talk to my suppliers about it. Just today we met with a supplier, and the entire other side of the table was all Caucasian males. That was interesting. I decided not to talk about it directly with [the supplier’s] folks in the room because there were actually no females, like, levels down. So I’m going to place a call to him.”
And who are the ones complaining and shouting racism?

You know it.

Shitty White Dudes who feel the world is slipping away (aka - they still want an all white world).

Did she say anything prejudiced?

Not even close.

She's just calling for diversity.

Get a clue shitty White Dudes.

Get a clue.

Because you're the ones who are racist calling this out as being racist.

Irony huh?

Music For The Holidays #3: Cynthia Lin + River (Joni Mitchell)

Wednesday, December 23, 2015

Music For The Holidays #2: The Reason This Season (original) by Jennifer Chung & The Fu

Tuesday, December 22, 2015

Music For The Holidays: Big Phony + Christmas Abroad

Tuesday, December 22, 2015

Don't Hate...It Wasn't Miss Universe Pia Alonzo Wurtzbach's Fault + Miss USA Seemed Nice Too + Of Course We Feel Bad For Columbia + What Is Germany Doing?

Tuesday, December 22, 2015



All I'm saying is that regardless of what you think about the Miss Universe Pageant, Pia Alonzo from the Philippines did win it, and it was an awkward bad moment for everyone which stole all the glory from - well - everyone. Throw the hate if you want, but it will be of no use and misdirected.

Dang though - they let Columbia get really far into the waving, looking at the audience, hanging out with the crown - I mean - they almost closed the show I think...gotta feel bad for her.

But I wouldn't have wanted to be the winner either because that didn't look so good. No matter how you cut it - at least at that moment - the optics are someone was a winner, and then they were not, and then someone else became the winner while the other one, who was not a winner, cried.

All we can do is blame the MU folks for something crazy and youtube worthy (because I didn't actually watch it) and just hope that opportunity is there for everyone.

Except Miss Germany.

I feel like she maybe had some bad sauerkraut.

Okay

Perez Hilton said that Pia deserved to win and apparently all the judges were unanimous in picking her.

I may disagree with him thinking one will have a longer career than the other, but he was there, I was not, his words speak for - well - him.

Ishy Tina Fey AKA When White Women Go Bad AKA You Can't Opt Out If You're Not White

Monday, December 21, 2015

Ish. From the interview of Tina Fey:

IF YOU DON’T GET THE JOKE, THAT’S YOUR PROBLEM “Steer clear of the internet and you’ll live forever. We did an Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt episode and the internet was in a whirlwind, calling it ‘racist’, but my new goal is not to explain jokes. I feel like we put so much effort into writing and crafting everything, they need to speak for themselves. There’s a real culture of demanding apologies, and I’m opting out of that.”
We already know I have issues with the show's character/plot for Asian Americans (although I don't fault anyone for taking a job) - especially when you hold it up to shows like Fresh Off The Boat and Dr. Ken.

But Fey's latest quote - well - I don't need to explain myself that much either because I regularly opt out of explaining things to the dumbass white people - it just reeks of being an old ass minded white woman who takes her privilege seriously and who apparently can't really deduce between internet trolls and actual criticism which may have to do with race.

P.S.

I'm sure putting on blackface and making chinky jokes took some effort too.

Christian And Jewish Songs Are Okay But Ramadan-themed "Allahu Akbar" Isn't? AKA This Is Why No One From The City Moves To Blaine

Friday, December 18, 2015

Just like any state, we have the cities and we have the suburbs and we have the outer 'who really wants to go there places'.

Blaine and Coon Rapids (and yes, I've had many a conversation about the city name Coon Rapids) are the latter.

And remember - Coon Rapids is where apparently you can't speak another language while dining or you'll get some crazy woman assaulting you (and btw, I really do feel like Anoka County shouldn't be a part of the MSP/STPL metro - because they suck).

It doesn't surprise me then that some folks in adjoining Blaine decided to get outraged when the song "Allahu Akbar" was added to the song list:

Some parents in the Anoka-Hennepin School District are questioning a choir teacher’s decision to use a song about Ramadan performed in Arabic at a holiday concert [...]

Another parent, who didn’t want to be identified, told WCCO phone that considering the recent events in Paris and San Bernardino, singing a song about Allah would be “insensitive.”
Apparently kids can opt out of the song if they don't want to sing it and it won't affect their grade.

I wonder if kids can opt out of "Away in the Manger" because their parents feel it would be insensitive with all of the sexual abuse and cover up that's transpired in the Christian church.

Get a clue.

IndieGoGo It: Aviatrix: The Katherine Sui Fun Cheung Story

Wednesday, December 16, 2015



Sounds like a cool project. Indiegogo it now.

About

Aviatrix is a documentary film about Katherine Sui Fun Cheung, who was one of the first Chinese women to earn a pilots license in the United States during the Golden Age of Aviation. Read her story in Vogue: http://www.vogue.com/13256458/katherine-sui-fun-cheung-aviatrix
Watch for our upcoming news segment about Katherine on MSNBC's Her Story airing soon. Take the MSNBC quiz to learn more about women in aviation: http://www.msnbc.com/the-last-word/herstory-quiz-how-much-do-you-know-about-women-aviation

The Bad And Good About Rajon Rondo, Bill Kennedy, Being Gay, And The National Basketball Association

Wednesday, December 16, 2015



I was reading this article down @ ESPN on Rajon Rondo who slurred NBA referee Bill Kennedy and I couldn't help but think a few things:

1. Bill Kennedy can be Bill Kennedy and fuck anyone else.

2. Damn Rondo, how far ye has fallen.

3. I didn't really care for all of the apology, but I am glad that he had to make an apology and was suspended without pay for one game.

4. Adam Silver should run the NFL:

"I wholeheartedly support Bill's decision to live his life proudly and openly," Silver said. "Throughout his 18-year career with the league, Bill has excelled as a referee because of his passion, dedication and courage. Those qualities will continue to serve him well both as a game official and as a positive influence for others. While our league has made great progress, our work continues to ensure that everyone is treated with respect and dignity."

In Kennedy's own words:
"I am proud to be an NBA referee and I am proud to be a gay man," Kennedy told Yahoo! Sports on Sunday. "I am following in the footsteps of others who have self-identified in the hopes that will send a message to young men and women in sports that you must allow no one to make you feel ashamed of who you are."

Run On America Is Great AKA An Open Letter To GOP Candidates Who Say America Doesn't Win (And What Was That Vietnam Comment About?)

Tuesday, December 15, 2015

Dear Crazy MF's,

If America doesn't win how did you all do what you do and build what you have? Correct me if I'm wrong - but I don't think you can do that in an environment that loses. I'm not saying we're always winners - because some days we just suck (and yes, that's my technical term) - but aren't we still the #1 country in regard to the most powerful countries in the world?

(That would be a yes btw).

All I'm saying because I'm too tired to beat this one down - America doesn't suck and I get tired of hearing from these GOP candidates that it does (if I was The Hill I might start combating that a little with America is great - leave the gloom and doom behind).

P.S.

What was that comment about Vietnam eating our lunch?

Great.

Now they're bringing back Vietnam.

Asian American Poverty + Mashable

Tuesday, December 15, 2015

I know Mashable is (and has) changed, however I do find it interesting to see the article "The 'model minority' myth: Why Asian-American poverty goes unseen" down at what I still kind of consider (even though wrong) a tech site (because it's not just that anymore).

Good deal because we still need more articles to beat this topic down until everyone gets it.

Because not everyone does.

Some APA & Asian Goodness In YouTube Rewind: Now Watch Me 2015

Friday, December 11, 2015



While there can be more - a decent amount in the video including Lilly Singh, Jen Chae, Yuka Kinoshita, Hajime, ssin, Jenn Im, Timothy DeLaGhetto, Wassabi Productions, LaurDIY, Eugene Lee Yang (The Try Guys), Anna Akana, and possibly a couple more I may have missed.

Nice.

My No Review Reviews: Forest Of Death VS The Forest VS Sea Of Trees

Thursday, December 10, 2015

First I will admit that I've had a Shu Qi crush for...well - many many years now and I will fully admit that I can, and sometimes am, biased.

And I will also admit that trees in Japan are different than trees in Hong Kong.

And I'll admit that I love the Pang Brothers (more so than the Cohen brothers - but I like them too - and yes, they have nothing to do with any of these films).

And I'm not saying that all 3 movies, with The Forest coming out in 2016, are all based on each other. Because you can have trees, and trees in forests where people die or commit suicide and it's not like Aokigahara isn't a real place where people actually commit suicide (so technically you could say The Forest and the Sea Of Trees deal with the same subject matter, albeit one won't get booed at Cannes).

I guess what I'm saying is just that there are a lot of movies about forests where people die but none of them have Shu Qi in it or Ekin Cheng believing that trees can actually be witnesses to murder. And since I haven't seen Sea of Trees (and it did get booed), and The Forest hasn't come out yet (so I haven't seen that either) - I think the clear winner here is Forest of Death.

If I were to choose a winner.

Which I'm not though.

See?

True to my post title.

Here's the trailer for Forest of Death and The Forest if you are so inclined to watch them.



Donate To Visual Communications And They Get Double Through December 31st

Wednesday, December 09, 2015

Got this in the email and wanted to make sure and pass it along.

Emphasis by me.

Can you believe that the end of 2015 is already upon us? Join Visual Communications as we celebrate the accomplishments this year. From the 31st edition of the Los Angeles Asian Pacific Film Festival, to year-round exhibitions and events, and the 13th cycle of the Armed With a Camera Fellowship and Digital Histories, your support has been an integral part of impacting our communities throughout the year.  
As we move towards to our 50th anniversary, we not only celebrate our accomplishments together for the past 45 years, we also look forward to many more with you. Whether you became a new member, renewed your membership, or attended an event, please know that we value your commitment to supporting our vision. 
During this holiday season, we ask you to consider making a donation, no matter how small or large.  100% of your contribution to the organization is tax-deductible. 
As a commitment to you, VC's Board of Directors will be matching each dollar raised during the holiday seasonHelp make sure that AAPI stories continue to be valued, shared, and preserved. 
Donate online at support.vconline.org before December 31st.

Because Xmas Still Lives So I Give You A Silent Night Rendition With Marie Digby, Ana Free, and Jason Chen

Wednesday, December 09, 2015



While I absolutely respect inclusion of all holidays and cultures (obviously), I'm also on the side that if I like some Xmas stuff and want to sing some Xmas carols (because inclusion doesn't have to be exclusion), that shouldn't offend anyone either.

Unless I'm naked.

I get that.

Please feel free to be very offended if I'm singing Xmas carols naked and knocking on your door because I too would be very offended and possibly frightened.

Unless I'm looking good that day though...

Because then naked me is good for everyone!

Well probably not everyone...but you know what I'm saying.

Random Profile: Len de Gracia, Senior Environment Artist

Wednesday, December 09, 2015

I was down at metacritic checking out games - with one of them on everyone's list being The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt - and playing the video about the game, stumbled on Len De Gracia who is a Senior Environment Artist @ CD Projekt Red and while some may say I'm a stalker - I just call it Google.

Which led me to to her site.

Cool.

And yes - that is all, because now you're making me feel like a stalker...

Net Neutrality And A Free Internet For The AAPI Communities

Tuesday, December 08, 2015

Diatribe:

Net neutrality and a free, fair internet and communications backbone affects so many communities of color, immigrant communities, and poor communities that are financially volatile. Without a free and fair internet, the digital divide will grow larger, and access to information, communication networks, and educational tools - all helping to add to the foundations of a brighter future can be in jeopardy. It's not sexy or media headline grabbing (and I mean that in a respectful way but also that I don't think we need to focus on a few radicals day in and day out because of xenophobia - and in turn have to react to that versus just covering mainly the victims and talking about policies like gun control) - but it's extremely important. Access to information and the right to access that information in the same way for everyone - specifically built on the networks of government and educational institutions and not private industry (albeit they have furthered some of the infrastructure, however still within the confines of federal and government oversight) -- it's our right to use and access w/o private companies making the decisions.

Some Michelle Bu On The Stripe Open Source Retreat

Tuesday, December 08, 2015

While they already chose developers to work on their projects from their SF office I thought I haven't posted a ton of tech news lately - so here's a link to the Stripe blog. And just in case you were wondering from a free internet perspective you want to like Stripe.

Girls' Generation Brings Me Holiday Cheer (Dear Santa English Version)

Tuesday, December 08, 2015



Now I feel like running around in snow...

Wait...I don't want to do that.

Here's the K-version if you would like it as well.

Damn PSY That's Just A Crazy Video (Daddy Featuring CL)

Tuesday, December 08, 2015



Little PSY kind of freaks me out...although big daddy freaks me out just as much...

Random Trailer: Jasmine + Jason Tobin

Tuesday, December 08, 2015



Call me crazy but if Jason Tobin approached me in the back of an alley screaming at me - even just holding a flower - it just might be a little spooky (but then again, I still can't quite shake his serial killer-ness from my mind).

You're A First: Judge Lynn R. Nakamoto

Tuesday, December 08, 2015

One day I dream of getting a JD and waving my big gavel while donned in a black robe...

Sure that may sound like the start of something more perverse but it's really not (get your mind out of the gutter thank you very much).

Anyway...I'm glad somone like Judge Lynn R. Nakamoto will get to do this on the Oregon Supreme Court and wave around her big gavel:

Oregon Court of Appeals Judge Lynn R. Nakamoto has been appointed to the Oregon Supreme Court by Gov. Kate Brown. Nakamoto is replacing Justice Virginia L. Linder, who has retired.

Nakamoto is the first Asian Pacific American to sit on the state's highest bench. Judge Roger J. DeHoog, a Deschutes County Circuit Court judge, will fill Nakamoto's vacancy at the court of appeals.
Yes.

Trump Wants To Intern Everyone Just Like FDR

Tuesday, December 08, 2015

All we need to know is this:

Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump defended his call to temporarily bar Muslims from entering the United States by comparing it to former President Roosevelt's 1942 executive order that authorized the internment of 110,000 American citizens of Japanese descent.

Apparently the furor has spoken.

And no - FDR wasn't the best President of the US.

Empowerment And Inspiration: You Want A Dream Big Friends Yuna Doll Too

Friday, December 04, 2015



From the Kickstarter page:

Yuna and the Dream Big Friends doll line was inspired by our own children's interactions with mass market toys. We took note of how these toys are marketed and merchandised at retail, and in turn, how they influence, inspire, and leave impressions upon kids everywhere.

Instead of creating an "anti-fashion doll", we set out to focus on imaginative play, which is what toys are really there for, and create something we would feel really good about giving to our kids.

High grade materials and super attention to quality and design were important factors when creating Yuna from the ground up. Yuna is a 10-inch, fully articulated doll with real fabric clothing and accessories. We put our all into making her the best doll possible.
Awesome.

David Henry Hwang Doing Well After Getting Slashed In The Neck

Thursday, December 03, 2015

Just one of those WTF moments.

A Tony award-winning playwright was slashed in the neck in an apparently random attack near his Brooklyn home, police said Wednesday.

David Henry Hwang, who brought home the trophy for his 1988 play “M. Butterfly,” was walking on S. Oxford Ave. near Lafayette Ave. in Fort Greene when an unknown attacker slashed his neck from behind around 8:50 p.m. on Sunday, police said.

The 57-year-old writer told police he felt pain and then noticed he was bleeding before walking to a hospital. He was treated and released.

“Thanks to the excellent work of the doctors at Brooklyn Hospital and Mount Sinai, I'm now home and expected to make a full recovery,” Hwanh told the Daily News.

Glad to hear he is doing well and I hope they find the perp that did this.

Here's to a speedy recovery (physically and mentally).

Be Part Of The Kollab SF Staff For 2016

Thursday, December 03, 2015

All the info here.

IISuperwomanII Doesn't Live in an Igloo, OKAY!? | SSN2 Ep 1 | TAWK w/ AWKWAFINA

Thursday, December 03, 2015



I'll have to catch up and watch this when I can.

Good Article On Wealth In The Atlantic But Where Are The Asian Americans In It? Do We Not Exist?

Tuesday, December 01, 2015

From the article in the Atlantic:

A seminal study published in the Journal of Economic Perspectives on wealth accumulation estimates that as much as 20 percent of wealth can be attributed to formal and informal gifts from family members, especially parents. And it starts early. In college, black and Hispanic Millennials are more likely to have to work one or two jobs to get through, missing out on opportunities to connect with classmates who have time to tinker around in dorm rooms and go on to found multibillion-dollar companies together. Many of them take on higher levels of student debt than their white peers, often to pay for routine expenses, such as textbooks, that their parents are less likely to subsidize.

“Student debt is the biggest millstone around Millennials, period, and an even larger and heavier one around the necks of black Millennials,” said Tom Shapiro, the director of the Institute on Assets and Social Policy. “It really hits those doing the right thing. [They’re] going through all the hoops.” He explained that, unlike in previous decades when college tuition was drastically lower, the risks of educational costs are now passed down to the individual.

Again, I really like this article in terms of talking about what makes wealth from the perspective of informal gifts and familial subsidies and responsibilities.

But where are we in all of this?

Don't we as Asian Americans have some of the same types of issues when looking to truly gain wealth?

Yes - we do.

So why are we kept out of the conversation?

Oh yeah...that's right...

Random 4th Impact

Monday, November 30, 2015



Hopefully Celina is doing well and the group goes on to bright things after being eliminated.

Peter Sohn's "The Good Dinosaur" Estimated For $60 Million Opening Weekend (And Yes - That Would Be Russell From "Up")

Thursday, November 26, 2015



Hopefully the estimates are in line for Sohn who is directing and also did the voice for Forrest Woodbrush - as that would be a nice - and another - feather in his Disney/Warner Brothers/Pixar cap that proves once again that we all don't need to be doctors and lawyers to succeed in life.

That you are can in fact live - and live well I'm assuming - off of art.

Here's a great interview with Sohn from last week talking about his life, art, and his Korean American upbringing (and working in the family store) down at NPR.

Enjoy The Holidays (AKA The Ghosts Of Xmas WTF)

Wednesday, November 25, 2015

A lot going on and a lot to post on.

But for now just a quick post to say, hope you and your APA goodness enjoys the upcoming time to eat, drink, socialize on why the Peanuts from 1973 is still being played on TV (because I figure it's a little outdated now and someone should do a mashup of what's wrong with it), and of course -

Be merry.

Well technically that holiday comes later but if retailers can put stockings up already I can make a reference to the ghost of Xmas past and the ghost of WTF is going on when people can't peacefully assemble without White Supremacists shooting at and around them - and yes - Nathan Gustavsson, 21, of Hermantown, and Daniel Macey, 26, of Pine City - I'm guessing they get a big 'ol lump of Kiss My Ass and Fuck You for Turkey day and Xmas.

P.S.

I still like to use the word Fuck because sometimes situations just demand it.

And This Is Why We Love George Takei (And Why Mayor David Bowers Has To Go)

Friday, November 20, 2015

If you're on FB you've seen the George Takei take down of Mayor David Bowers who decided in the wake of the Paris attacks to cite Japanese American Internment as a good thing.

And if by chance you didn't see it - get caught up.

We.Love.George.Takei.

TBT: The Reason Is A Little Hoobastank

Thursday, November 19, 2015



Don't judge me...

Film: "Who Is Arthur Chu?" + Indigogo Campaign

Monday, November 16, 2015



This sounds like a great project and film that is in the works on 11-time Jeopardy! champion and internet iconoclast, Arthur Chu. They've received some help from the Center for Asian-American Media, and the film is also a sponsored project of the International Documentary Association.

Now they just need some help crossing the finish line - so help them out if you can @ Indiegogo.

Our film will be an intimate character study of a singular individual, coming into his own at a critical juncture in history. Arthur’s story bridges traditional media with online media. He is an Asian-American who grew up in an immigrant family, and went on to shatter previous notions of the model minority. From the Music and Gaming Festival in Washington DC to a conference in Silicon Valley; from his quiet existence in Cleveland, Ohio with his wife Eliza, to Taipei, Taiwan where he reunites with his extended family, Arthur engages candidly with everyone around him. His journey redefines the American dream on his own terms.

Here's the trailer



Check more out about the film at arthurchufilm.com as well as donate @ Indigogo.com.

P.S. I Can't Wait To See The $50 Million Netflix Financed Bong Joon-ho Upcoming Film "Okja"

Friday, November 13, 2015

Sure - it just got financed - but that won't stop me from pining about it until it gets out (even though I'm still waiting for "Shanghai, I Love You"...).

From /Film:

Okja follows a Korean girl who befriends a kindhearted monster. (The title refers to the name of the monster.) The film splits its time between the U.S. and Korea. Gyllenhaal, Swinton, Nighy, Paul Dano, and Kelly Macdonald play supporting characters in scenes set in New York City. Casting is still underway for the lead role of the girl, who hails from the South Korean province of Gangwon-do.

Said Bong in a statement:

It really is a fantastic opportunity for me as a filmmaker. For Okja, I needed a bigger budget than I had for Snowpiercer and also complete creative freedom. Netflix offered me the two conditions that are difficult to have in hand simultaneously.
Oh yeah.

It's Travis Atreo Covering The Song Perfect (And It's Well...Perfect) + Kathleen Nguyen Covers It Pretty Ummm...Perfect Too

Friday, November 13, 2015

Travis Atreo



Just smooth.

And about 10,000 views already in 1 day say it's not just me.

Kathleen Nguyen

Just because I can (and about 190K already have).



Shonda Rhimes' Perception On Characters She Could Identify With - And The Difference For Asian Americans

Friday, November 13, 2015

I was listening to this story in the car which you can also listen to hear (sorry...) and one of the pieces I found interesting was when Rhimes was asked a question about characters she could identify with she said (paraphrased - with the actual words around 28:05):

Oprah was ruling day-time television, Cosby was ruling night-time television, Whoopi Goldberg was ruling Broadway, Eddie Murphy was ruling the movie theaters, in the late 1980's when I was a teenager and decided what I wanted to be...so to me everything felt very possible.

I think it's great that this can be said and shows at least a portion of what is possible from a racial acceptance perspective.

Because we should be able to say something like that.

Someone like a Shonda Rimes should be able to say that - to be inspired that way.

But the same thing can't be said from an Asian American perspective.

Not from that time period.

And I question if that statement will ever be able to be said in that way or if it can already be said with more shows, filmmakers and directors, writers - all who have AAPI roots.

I don't think it would be quite the same - but media, the amount of media, the way it's consumed might beg to differ.

I'll have to ponder that one for a while...

Hit The Philadelphia Asian American Film Fest

Thursday, November 12, 2015



Didn't get around to posting this until now but the fest started tonight and runs through November 22nd so you have more than enough time to check out 60+ films and programs (23 feature films and 37 short films) as well as discussions and events on music, culture, and food.

Check out the full line-up at the PAAFF site.

I Feel Like I Have A Large APIA Digital Music And Video Archive...

Thursday, November 12, 2015

Once I get my latest RAID array setup for media files and I go through duplicates and get everything databased I'll have a better idea, but I feel like it's considerable - music, music videos, short films, films, tv shows, clips, etc.

I've always liked to do this for what I do it for - but amassing a nice library of APIA digitals - it's just nice.

That's it.

A Little Thursday Night Retro Aziatix

Thursday, November 12, 2015



And by retro I mean a couple months ago.

And yes...

You have to visit Tower Records when you're in Tokyo.

APIs for Equity and Diversity: University of Minnesota Asian American Students Lead Peaceful Protest For Representation

Wednesday, November 11, 2015



This is great to see and read about (thank you Kare 11 where I also got the above pic). When I was at the U of M I was just worried about not sleeping in to miss my Tuesday and Thursday classes.

The student group, called APIs for Equity and Diversity, protested outside McNamara Alumni Center where the Office for Equity and Diversity (OED) hosted an annual breakfast. The students timed their protest to get the attention of the alumni, stakeholders and university officials gathered.

Ken Gonzales, a senior born in the Philippines, and junior Kaochi Pah, who is Hmong, led what the group called a day of action, called #StepUpOED. They asked Office for Equity and Diversity to work harder to represent more Asian American Pacific Islander students on campus.

"As a Hmong student I always felt marginalized already [...]"
Read it in full here.

Aziz Ansari Is Awesome In Netflix's Master Of None + Check Out The NYT Article

Tuesday, November 10, 2015



So I've only watched about 1/2 the season so far - but I can tell that it's awesome.

Literally everything I want in a comedy that features Asian Americans and POC.

Seriously.

Watch it or forever miss out on one of the best comedies - ever.

Here's a little more from Aziz Ansari from the NYT:

Even though I’ve sold out Madison Square Garden as a standup comedian and have appeared in several films and a TV series, when my phone rings, the roles I’m offered are often defined by ethnicity and often require accents.

Sure, things are moving in the right direction with “Empire” and “Fresh Off the Boat.” But, as far as I know, black people and Asian people were around before the last TV season. And whatever progress toward diversity we are making, the percentage of minorities playing lead roles is still painfully low. (The numbers for women are depressing as well.) In 2013, according to a recent report produced by the Ralph J. Bunche Center for African American Studies at U.C.L.A., only 16.7 percent of lead film roles went to minorities. Broadcast TV was worse, with only 6.5 percent of lead roles going to nonwhites in the 2012-13 season. In cable, minorities did better, getting 19.3 percent of the roles.

Read the article in full and again - watch it or forever be labeled with a big L on your forehead.

So People Have No Issues With The White Camera Guys But The Asian American Guy Gets It?

Tuesday, November 10, 2015



Call me crazy but why is the Asian American guy getting it versus the White camera guys behind him?

Apparently it's all good unless you have slanty eyes?

Make your own judgement, but that's at least what I see and if you make the argument about personal space, etc. - the group could have just went around him - but they didn't. They decided to take that moment and basically push him around.

Again - you can agree to disagree - and we can argue about what a photog should do in situations like that - but to me - it definitely goes both ways and again, I didn't see them going after the White guys with cameras (at the time of filming), or the guy filming it (who was White).

Guess there's no one better to push around than some Asian American kid with glasses?

Asian Americans Smoking The Weed...

Tuesday, November 10, 2015

And in pot related news (because the last week has killed me and I'm lazy...) apparently there is a group to help pot smokers come out to their parents.

It was hard for Tiffany Wu to tell her conservative, first-generation Chinese American parents she was quitting her high-paying job at a Silicon Valley law firm. It was even harder for the Harvard Law School grad to tell them that she was quitting so she could advise clients in the cannabis industry — and that she smokes weed regularly.

Hmmm...

If baby Slanty comes up to Daddy and says "Hey I'm smoking weed and decided to go that route for a job" either one of two things are going to happen:

1. I'm kicking someone in the ass?

2. A big 'ol lb is coming to my doorstep?

Read more down at the SF Chronicle.

Kick It With Bruce Lee And Visual Communications At The JANM (And Win An Apple Watch Too)

Tuesday, November 03, 2015



This should be a great time, but tickets are limited so you better get them now!

Join Visual Communications as we celebrate the life and legacy of Bruce Lee. Start the celebration off with a screening of In His Own Words, followed by an intimate conversation with Bruce's daughter Shannon Lee and god-daughter Diana Lee Inosanto. These two will reflect on their personal stories to show how Bruce and his legacy continue to impact not only their lives, but the lives of other people worldwide. Following the conversation, come join us at the Aratani Central Hall in the Japanese American National Museum, where we will host a reception, complete with live performances, special guests, a silent auction with various Bruce Lee memorabilia, delicious appetizers, bites, and beverages. Celebrating Bruce Lee will take place at the Japanese American National Museum on Sunday, November 15th, and will begin at
5:00 PM.
Check out more about the event @ vconline.

Magnified: Brandon Nguyen

Monday, November 02, 2015



From the mag to the video.

Kicking down @ Stanford.

John Choi Heads The Nation's First Case Against An Archdiocese With Failure To Protect Children

Friday, October 30, 2015

It's unfortunate that charges need to be brought up at all - but by now - we know nothing is truly sacred:

Ramsey County Attorney John Choi filed criminal and civil charges against the archdiocese last summer, citing the church’s failed oversight of former priest Curtis Wehmeyer. Wehmeyer was convicted of sexually abusing two sons of a parishioner in 2010 in a camper parked outside the Church of the Blessed Sacrament in St. Paul, where he was pastor. It is the first time a U.S. archdiocese has been charged with such an offense, and just the second time a U.S. archdiocese has been criminally indicted in a clergy abuse case, say national legal scholars. Clergy abuse cases historically have focused on individual priests.
Here's to hoping for justice.

Really? NYC Police vs Skateboarder

Thursday, October 29, 2015



Pretty messed up simply because you either write the ticket or you don't.

I've skated throughout my whole life and I've never gotten into a situation like that.

Sure - you may get some chases - but...no one's going that crazy because there are ways to get around situations (and that cop decided to just go through them).

It's just a full on take-down.

With pepper spray.

And for what?

Skating?

Harold Hunter is looking down and wishing he could grind down on someone...

Jon Nguyen Grabs The Cover Of TransWorld SKATEboarding

Wednesday, October 28, 2015



Here's the video of him talking about the cover (with family cameos).

Can You Really Be That Sick Of Sam Tsui And Alyson Stoner? The Answer Is No

Wednesday, October 28, 2015



Yeah - that's almost 1 million views.

Jason Chen + MariƩ Digby Call Me On My Cellphone (And Transfer Me To The Drake Hotline)

Wednesday, October 28, 2015



Yeah - I like this.

Gotta put it on my regular rotation.

P.Keys (AKA Paul Kim) Goes Until You Come Back

Wednesday, October 28, 2015



Smooth.

Vibe That Beatrock: Rocky Rivera + GRLGNG

Wednesday, October 28, 2015



Nice.

Hello: It's Your Wednesday Adele Cover From Joseph Vincent

Wednesday, October 28, 2015

An Open Letter To Asian American Guys Who Talk About Being Progressive, Supporting Gender Equality, And Not Being Misogynistic

Wednesday, October 28, 2015

Dear Guys (Who I've Already Referenced Above In The Title),

There's nothing wrong with being "progressive", albeit that term when applied to this conversation is in some ways like using the word "tolerate" to me - because let's embrace it versus tolerate it right? And is it really that "progressive" to have a level playing field? Sometimes when I hear the word progressive in that light I can't help but think to myself that it sometimes comes from this POV of not necessarily embracing it and just feeling it, versus that it's just "the right thing to do" and in a way, more of a task of chores to do - not all the time, not everyone, but sometimes. Say all the right things, do all the right things, but something just seems off right?

Anyway, I'm getting off track.

Listen - if I don't support equal pay for everyone, or a workplace of diversity to the highest positions, or can't fathom how women and men are equals, or that women aren't just sex objects for pleasure - easy shit - someone should kick me.

And kick me really really hard.

Because like I said - that's easy shit.

At the same time - maybe not either.

I've seen guys who preach about being supporters and allies, who write about being supporters and allies, but then at the same time, when in a conversation with a man and a woman, will ignore the woman in the conversation almost completely and focus on what the guy is saying.

Literally turn their back on the woman in the conversation.

You can talk all the shit you wanna talk about for supporting women, even be exalted for it, but if you have conversations like that (offline or online equivalents) - what you say doesn't mean a thing because it truly is lip service.

It's like the guys who deny a woman any sexuality but also can't stop thinking of a woman in only a sexual way where they can't see past their own (and possibly repressed) desires to realize that person is in fact a better candidate for a promotion - and I distrust puritans if only because everyone has sex and when you deny that people should appreciate each other's bodies and the way they look - and there are times and places for everything because not everything is appropriate - I think it seeps too much in - the denial - to the point where it becomes the exact opposite.

Everything isn't as it always seems and it's not that cut and it's not that dry.

You like you some adult film (aka porn)?

Does that make you a misogynist who can't support gender equality?

Maybe.

Maybe not.

I guess it depends on what you watch (and I'll always argue the individuals over industries like I do in capitalistic societies however flawed that can be).

But not everyone's gonna admit that or to that.

But they may admit that they don't want their daughter to do or like "traditional" boy things, or their boys to do or like "traditional" girl things.

Funny huh?

I guess I'm just saying that there are things we need to do as men and as males and to question what we do or don't do, but to be real about it.

Let's live in the real world.

Let's be real about the differences between men and women because in not doing so, we're just being "color-blind" if we equate this to race (which isn't a perfect analogy, but you get the picture) - and as we know - that doesn't work and never has because there are so many shades of what color - and what being a woman or man - is all about.

And let's give each other a break here and there (and I guess that would go out to everyone).

Because in the real world it's not binary.

There's a difference between looking at someone to see their outfit and telling them they look nice versus ogling them like a piece of meat and thinking they're your property to do as you wish (and to have that expectation).

There's a difference between being sexual and treating people like a sexual object.

And there's a difference between saying you support gender equality and truly supporting it, just like there's a difference between promoting someone, and promoting someone to a true position of power.

Ok.

That's it.

Soapbox as you will, just be careful of the suds in your eyes.

Redagnaddity Em Flickerus,
Adam

If We're "Killing It" On YouTube How Come We Aren't Dominating Forbes' "The World's Highest-Paid YouTube Stars 2015" List?

Tuesday, October 27, 2015

Really - check the article and let me know if you see us more than around 2 times?

Out of 11?

Maybe it's more of a thing where we're just there en masse and if you look at the top 100 (which they should do) we would see ourselves more.

I thought YouTube was the second coming of Second City, YoullyWood, and WhoNeedsThatRecordLabel?

Great to see representation that is there - and I'll take some of that cash too but I'll use it for plastic toys that make sounds while being lit up and that can fly high atop the mescaline sunset versus putting it back into my business (because how is that good advice?) - I was just surprised I didn't see more of us.

So even in YouTube land the deals go to the people that don't look like us?

And yes - you can call me dire if it would so please you.

If You Don't Know About The Model Minority Stereotype Should I Just Kick You?

Tuesday, October 27, 2015

I know people don't know everything, but I just can't help but think to myself that if you don't know anything about the model minority stereotype or its effects, that I should just kick you.

Anywhere.

And by you, I mostly mean All People Of Non-Asian Decent who Have No Clue.

It's not the only thing that defines us or even how others of us were looked at.

Stop the madness I implore you.

Vietnamese Focus: Generations Of Foodies

Tuesday, October 27, 2015



Sounds like this should be a great event and definitely want to get on down there if you can.

The special talk series, scheduled for three different sessions on November 7, will feature chefs, restauranteurs, and entertainers talking about how they found themselves to food (featured are Xanh Bistro's Haley Nguyen, Lynda's Sandwiches' Lynda Trang Dai, and Au Lac's Mai Nguyen to start).

Kick the Event Brite page for more info.

In Pics: Ming Na + James Hong + Bai Ling

Tuesday, October 27, 2015





http://www.whosay.com/status/mingnawen/1158275?wsref=fb&code=WafbaD2

Sorry Folks: Glenn Is MF Dead And I Don't Even Watch The Walking Dead (Although....)

Tuesday, October 27, 2015



I get it.

I don't watch The Walking Dead for some reason (and maybe I'll binge watch it someday).

But I get the idea of Glenn as not only an actor, but an Asian American actor,

A heartthrob,

A hero,

A shining light,

A killer of zombies...

But even though you didn't really see a body (caught the recaps because there was crying in my house during that episode...so I figured I should at least check out the end)...

I'm sorry to say...

That MF's dead!

P.S.

Or they could bring him back - like they can Han for F8 - don't cry too hard now.

Maybe he becomes the savior hybrid of human and zombie helping to lead the people (although I don't know where to because again, I don't watch The Walking Dead...which makes me a zombie in my house btw).

Enjoy The Silence (And The Lamb): Fresh Off The Boat + In Pics (Well One...)

Tuesday, October 27, 2015



Love.The.Visual.

And Mr. T wasn't too bad either.

P.S.

Just in case you thought this was a Depeche Mode post I'll give you some music...

An Open Letter To Race, Gender, and Class in Media v4

Thursday, October 22, 2015



Dear Book:

Apparently I was curious to see what college kids are reading so I decided to thumb through this and I can't quite get my head around the fact that out of 70 chapters there's really only 5 dedicated to Asian Americans, they're pretty slim, and in some cases, a little cursory.

It's just curious to me how you plan to educate about race, gender, and class in media while the APIA community is still under-represented in your pages.

Or maybe that was the point?

...

Yeah, I didn't think so either.

Please get more content, feel free to send me the manuscript, and I'll see you soon.

Or in a couple revisions.

Sincerely (but maybe not),
Adam

The Microsoft Windows 10 "One Of These Kids" Ad Tells Me Asian Kids Miss The Bus And Do Hard Labor While White Kids Go Diving And Make Robots

Thursday, October 22, 2015

Yes, I do love their technology, but this commercial needs a little tweaking and yes, it's a little tongue in cheek - but my point is still made.

Asian Girl Misses The Bus



Everyone else in the commercial is frolicking around (well almost...) but this girl is missing the bus? And she's happy about it? And the bus isn't stopping? We all know any self respecting Asian girl who's in band won't be late for the bus. And she sure as hell won't be happy about it because she knows a whoopin' will be in order when she has to wake Daddy to take her to school (and apparently Daddy isn't awake anyway because he was out on a bender all night which explains why she missed the bus).

Asian Girl Does Hard Labor



If they want to call this "washing dishes" they can spin this any way they want - but look at that kitchen - that's industrial or at best a church kitchen. She's all alone in a dimly lit kitchen and I bet she's even standing on something because she can't even reach the sink.

That girl's doing hard labor and thank god she's not a smoker too because than I would be scared that propane tank might go up in flames (because no one apparently puts that away after they're done cooking).

The White Kids



I'm not saying there's anything wrong about diving and making robots (although I would like to see a diving robot in the commercial) but I'm just wondering why the White Kids aren't missing buses and doing hard labor.



How come they get off Dred Scott free?

And Now That Break Seems Like Eons Ago (AKA 746 Posts Later)

Monday, October 19, 2015

When I took that blogging break in 2013/2014 it just seemed like the right thing to do.

Needed the break and wasn't sure what my directive was.

But coming back felt like the right thing to do too, and 19 months later, 746 posts later, 8/9 years and 5845 posts later - I'm glad I still have this outlet to lend a diatribe, a quick snippet, or simple video.

Because I still get inspired by all that we do in our APIA communities.

Push Back: Nicholas Kristof + Asian American Stereotypes

Monday, October 19, 2015

Glad to see a lot of people wrote in pushing back on the NYT article by Nicholas Kristof and the seemingly undending portrait of the APIA community as ONE ALL KNOWING CYBORG.

A snippet from one reader:

To the Editor: Nicholas Kristof associates the success of Asian-Americans with strong families and strong education. He completely misses the heterogeneity of Asians and the Asian experience in America. He equates Asians with East Asians and ignores the large number of South and Southeast Asians who still struggle to assimilate economically.

Vietnamese and Cambodians remain underrepresented in higher education and suffer from high dropout and incarceration rates. Recognizing the disparate experiences of Asians and how they are marginalized would help all Asians rise as their East Asian counterparts have.

SANG E. LEE

Cary Fukunaga's Beasts of No Nation (AKA Netflixed And Boycotted)

Monday, October 19, 2015

Some BOM info on the Netflix film which also had a limited theater run this weekend:

Netflix teamed with Bleecker Street to release Cary Fukunaga's Beasts of No Nation into 31 theaters this weekend, opening with an estimated $50,699. This one does, of course, come with a major asterisk as it also premiered on Netflix's streaming service the same day it hit theaters, which is where the majority of the film's audience will end up seeing it. Netflix paid $12 million for the feature, which it hopes will enjoy some awards attention over the coming months. As this is relatively new territory we'll have to wait and see how it turns out as there is nothing to necessarily compare it to.
A little more from venture beat:
Netflix made a sly choice for their debut film: a hyper-real depiction of a country (ahem, film industry) ripped to shreds by ineffective governance and infighting. At the forefront is the truly fearsome Commandant, played Idris Elba, a psychopathic warlord who employs an army of child soldiers. Indeed, after winning a few dozen Emmys and Golden Globes for shows like “Orange is the New Black” and “House of Cards,” it’s only logical that Netflix set their sights on the Oscars race. Netflix is no stranger to successful documentaries, but Cary Joji Fukunaga’s incredible film might be the company’s ticket to realm of narrative features. They put a gun to the neck of Blockbuster and HBO, now Netflix wants to take Hollywood by storm. Thankfully, the only child soldiers they need are fictional.

Netflix’s $6M investment might pay off: after turning heads at this year’s Venice International Film Festival, “Beasts” premiered simultaneously online and in theaters this weekend. Unfortunately, the four biggest U.S. theater chains — Regal, Carmike, Cinemark and AMC — decided to boycott the film, making “Beasts” quite literally a limited release.

Literate: Steph Cha + Koream American Feminist Noir

Monday, October 19, 2015



Good article down @ the korea times on writer Steph Cha:

As a newcomer to the literary scene, Cha found relatively quick luck in finding a publisher for her first-ever novel, “Follow Her Home,” the first Juniper Song book released just two years ago. She was 27 years old at the time and still working in law part-time. The second in the series, “Beware Beware,” dropped the following year. “I wasn’t a struggling novelist for many years,” she laughed. “I didn’t wait around for extreme parental disappointment to settle in.”

Her mother — who Cha says is now happy to brag about her daughter’s work — was her first introduction to writing. Cha was maybe five or six years old when she was put through story-writing exercises to learn new vocabulary by her mother.

3 Ways Han Can Be Resurrected For Fast 8

Sunday, October 18, 2015



So I've been saying this to numerous people - particularly K-Wife - that since we never saw the body of Han (and forget the funeral or last minutes in the crash) that they can bring him back for Fast 8. When I say this though it's usually met with a roll of the eyes by the non-believers - but I understand that too because I've never been able to follow it up with anything other than "But you never see the body! It's an opening!".

There's never been a "how". Just that I felt it could be done.

But last night, in a hazy dream fueled by too much homemade chili and a really warm blanket, it came to me.

I can bring Han back and I should share it with the world (or at least my parole officer).

Scenario #1: The Conversation Continued From Furious 7 In Japan Between Sean And Toretto

This is one of those flashbacks where we learn we didn't quite see the whole picture and in Fast 8, the flashback continues the conversation between Dom and Sean from Furious 7 in Japan, and as Dom is walking away after he gets the necklace and picture of Gisele he turns around because something doesn't seem right to him and he says something to the effect of "So you got the necklace and picture by the crash? Even though the car was melted down to almost nothing? How was that possible?" - and from there - just let your imagination go. Dom grabs Sean, Sean talks about how he can't trust anyone and with a flashback to Fast and Furious 6, we learn that Han was pulled out before the explosion (or after it quickly caught on fire) - maybe by an innocent bystander (someone new perhaps?) or maybe even Kamata's men from Tokyo Drift (because he still has to pay a debt) and has gone underground (even more than he was before).

Scenario #2: The Conversation Continued From Furious 7 In Japan With Han

Take the flashback from #1 except instead of a continued conversation between Dom and Sean, after Toretto gets in his car and starts driving in the Tokyo streets - during a stop at a crosswalk he happens to see someone who looks like Han - chases him down - and then the rest is history (Han tells him how he escaped but why he wanted everyone to think he was dead - something along the lines of death following him everywhere and not putting anyone else in danger).

A variation of this could also be Han knowingly stumbling onto Dom's car's windshield at a crosswalk (because he was shadowing him since he got into Japan) getting into his car (after Dom yells at the "bum" to get off his hood but then sees it's Han after he turns around and looks at Dom). They cook up the scheme to fake his funeral and keep him underground to help the team (and when it's revealed that Han is alive to the rest of the team you find out Han helped orchestrate some things from Furious 7 too ala "How do you think we got...").

Scenario #3: Han Just Shows Up For The Barbecue

The ultimate deus ex machina, Han does indeed just pull up in a nice car with tinted windows for a barbecue at the beginning of the movie - and while some are amazed - particularly Roman - others are not. Can't you see the nice banter as Tej explains how Han manged to get away from the explosion and then went underground, Dom talking about how he helped out in Furious 7 (see above) behind the scenes and Roman with his mouth just wide open going "But..."? And everyone else who didn't know about it just accepting it like it's the way it should be, and gives Han a beer and a burger saying how nice it is to see him?

P.S.

I feel like one of these 3 scenarios (or a combination of them) will work and if the powers that be don't think so (that would be anyone) I urge someone to start a petition to simply bring Han back and let someone else figure out how to do it because remember - you still never saw the body...

#TBT Night Music For The Lovers: Kick That Rocketeer

Thursday, October 15, 2015

Joseph Choe VS The Trump

Wednesday, October 14, 2015



Here's a quote from the Korea Times:

Joseph Choe, 17, a Harvard College student, also put Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe on the spot in April with a question about women who were forced to be sex slaves during World War II. During a campaign speech in New Hampshire, Trump said Korea receives free military protection from 28,500 American servicemen. "I just want to get the facts straight," Choe said during a question and answer session following the speech. Trump interrupted him to ask if he was from Korea. "I am not. I was born in Texas and raised in Colorado," Choe said. "No matter where I am from, I would like to get the facts straight. And I want to tell you that that is not true. South Korea paid $861 million."
A career in politics?

Oh yeah.

Conan + Randall Park's Baby Mentalist

Wednesday, October 14, 2015

So I'm late with this (but remember that I'm lazy and I was out on familia business) but if you haven't seen the baby mentalist - well now you can.

Here.

Well actually down here.

@ Team Coco.

Celebrating Bruce Lee + Visual Communications + The JANM

Tuesday, October 13, 2015



Sounds like this should be a great time so get on down if you can.

Join Visual Communications as we celebrate the life and legacy of Bruce Lee. Start the celebration off with a screening of In His Own Words, followed by an intimate conversation with Bruce's daughter Shannon Lee and god-daughter Diana Lee Inosanto. These two will reflect on their personal stories to show how Bruce and his legacy continue to impact not only their lives, but the lives of other people worldwide.

Following the conversation, come join us at the Aratani Central Hall in the Japanese American National Museum, where we will host a reception, complete with live performances, special guests, a silent auction with various Bruce Lee memorabilia, delicious appetizers, bites, and beverages.

Celebrating Bruce Lee will take place at the Japanese American National Museum on Sunday, November 15th, and will begin at 5:00 PM. Buy your tickets here, starting on Friday, October 9th, at 12:00 PM. Tickets are priced according to the components of the event. If you would like to attend the screening and the celebration, one (1) ticket is $150.00. If you would like to attend the celebration ONLY, one (1) ticket is $100.00.

If you and your organization are interested in purchasing a VIP Sponsorship Package ($2,500.00), please contact francis@vconline.org. The sponsorship package includes reserved seating at the screening, conversation, and reception, along with VIP wine and food platters.

Proceeds from this event will go to Visual Communications.

Get more info here.

#HillaryForPresident AKA Let The Games Begin AKA Why Would I Vote For The Old White Guy? AKA #NoMoreOldWhiteManBurnInMyCrotch

Tuesday, October 13, 2015

While I've had to take a little time off from over the last week or so, now seems the right time to make a post - because it's finally the Democrats turn at the debate podium.

And yes, you did read that title correctly.

While I would like to see some more diversity among the Democratic nominees - being a POC doesn't mean I'm with you (see Ben Carson) - at the end of the day - my vote is for Hillary.

She's got the experience. She's poised. She's not going to do damage like a Republican - and yes - I'm also going identity politics in the sense that I want to identify with a woman president (sure, it's not quite the same...but you get me).

The Burn?

It's not like he's a bad guy, or that I even disagree vehemently with his views - but is he going to be strides above Hillary?

No.

Is Hillary going to run the country into the ground (and I ask that if you're a Bernie fan)?

No.

So why wouldn't I want to vote for diversity?

For something different than a White Male? And I say that with respect to all the awesome Presidents we've had who just happened to be White Men...although "just happened to be" may not be a phrase that actually means "just happened to be" and "awesome" is probably debatable for some.

Why?

No reason.

P.S.

I really do want to hear the phrase "Madam President".

A Little Kevin, A Little So, And Why Am I Afraid?

Sunday, October 04, 2015

Link.

Listen.

Share.

Dr. Ken Is The Best Thing Since 2012

Sunday, October 04, 2015

I didn't get a chance to watch this yet (but only because I was doing some Dr. Ken stuff myself) - but will be soon - and according to the numbers - tvbythenumbers to be exact - apparently it had ABC’s highest-rated comedy opening since 2012 (for 1/2 hour comedy's) in that time slot.

Nice.

Bad Damon. Bad.

Tuesday, September 29, 2015

I loved me some Goodwill Hunting and some Bourne-ness but...as he says himself, I probably don't need to know that much about him...especially if he keeps on this...ummmm....track.

This post from Time I think sums it up. Here's a snippet.

The criticism of Damon’s comments on actors hiding their sexuality wasn’t that it was monstrous; it was simply the observation that a straight actor can “keep his private life private” while walking red carpets with his spouse, which a gay actor simply cannot. There are people out there who know more about the experiences of gay people than does Damon, and when they reacted to Damon’s comments, he simply kept talking over them, louder.
And true - maybe it wasn't monstrous monstrous - but maybe a subtly monstrous?

Fresh Off The Boat Is Killing It

Tuesday, September 29, 2015

That's all.

No really.

That's it.

Seriously.

Do you need more?

Well in that case...I already said that's it.

Get a dog.

Fine.

Random Trailers: Coming Home

Monday, September 28, 2015

Random Trailers: The Demon Within

Monday, September 28, 2015

5 Trick Fix With Danny Nguyen

Saturday, September 26, 2015

When Viets Go Bad: You Suck Ass Khang Nguyen Le

Monday, September 21, 2015

When you're the most senior monk and you loot the temple, even though I don't even go to Temple (albeit I have been there more than a church in the last decade come to think of it...) I can't really help you.

Nor do I want too (and if you think that's callous that's fine but neither did anyone in his family).

Sure I understand the fun of saying "BLACKJACK!!!!" and getting some free drinks and my butt pinched in the crowd on Saturday nights (they were a nice group of ladies visiting their grandchildren and it was a quick pinch and a smile so I never even got to know their names...) but even I wouldn't use my cover as monk to loot the temple. I mean if I had to choose between that and having to lick a booger off a dog's poop shoot with a raccoon clawing at my nether regions - well - I'm gonna close my eyes, stick my tongue out, and pray there's a good plastic surgeon just around the corner.

'Cause that dude is fucked.

#ICareBecause + Duc Nguyen + The Syrian Crisis + The Vietnamese American Link

Monday, September 21, 2015

I'll just let Duc Nguyen say it from the article in the OC Register.

"As Vietnamese Americans, I feel we have a moral responsibility to help these people...Others helped us when we were in that situation. Now it is time to pay it forward.

On the #ICareBecause Campaign

"The concept behind Nguyen’s campaign is to encourage people to post short videos of themselves saying, “I care because…” and declaring why they care about today’s Syrian refugees. They also can write it on Facebook or Twitter with the hashtag '#ICareBecause.'"

Here's video from earlier this month with Duc Nguyen, Bao Nguyen, and Kieu Chinh. among many others.



Ken Jeong Is The Sweetest Cookie Jam Ever And Makes Me Hungry For The Series Premiere On October 2nd

Monday, September 21, 2015



Seriously.

Now I'm hungry.

I'll Watch It Twice: Fresh Off The Boat - Season 2 Premiere Tuesday, Sept 22 at 8:30 | 7:30c

Monday, September 21, 2015



One of the best things I like about the trailer already is that Jessica is getting a massage by someone who's White (sue me if you don't like that comment) and Louis freaking out over the bill.

Yeah - this will be fun.

An Open Letter To Ron Kim (AKA Awesome Thief Catcher And New York State Assemblyman)

Monday, September 21, 2015



Dear Ron,

First I wanted to say that you are awesome.

I mean really awesome.

Running down and helping another person catch the perp who stole a purse from a momma with her baby?

If that's not awesome I don't know what is.

My only request...if you can call it that would be the following:

Can you do the same thing to Kim Davis?

Because she's still batshit crazy and I feel could use a good tackle as well (or swift kick in the ass - whichever you prefer).

Nicely done and hoping you make a trip to Kentucky,
Adam

#IStandWithAhmed + Stephen Amell Can Suck Wind (Says "Apparently I'm a white man whose hankering to be oppressed" After "Apology")

Wednesday, September 16, 2015



I think that's all we need to really know about the Arrow guy - and why would I ever start watching that now?

Two wrongs don't make a right?

What?

That doesn't even make sense.

And then he follows it up with some more dumbass tweets like the one above.

Catch more info down at MSNBC.

Here's a nice pic of Ahmed Mohamed versus the pic of the Dumbass White Dude's text who apparently still doesn't get it.


With Respect To Sherman Alexie, The Best (Or Almost Possibly Best) American Poetry 2015, And Yi-Fen Chou (AKA M.D.H)

Friday, September 11, 2015



I read through Sherman Alexie's response to the Yi-Fen Chou/Michael Derrick Hudson controversy surrounding the The Best American Poetry 2015 (where Michael Derrick Hudson used a pen-name alluding to the fact that he was Asian American - because this is the best American poetry) and I can't help but have some thoughts:

1. I hope this can be used as a learning experience for everyone involved even if it is at the expense of the Asian American community (in a general sense). The speaks to the fact that even though as communities of color we share inequities, there are still differences - and that lateral oppression, prejudice, and consequences born out of misplaced POV's brought about by misunderstandings or misinformation, can and still do occur.

2. The response from Sherman Alexie I believe on a whole was genuine and truthful and I respect that.

3. At the same time, it felt a little ambiguous for the sake of ambiguity, and at moments in CYA mode.

4. While 1/2 - 3/4's of the response was dedicated to what Sherman Alexie has done and how he had chosen poems and the general writer community, the details and time spent on anything pertaining specifically to the Asian American community and the effect of his decision wasn't addressed, and I think that's important because even though the issue is about a White writer impersonating an Asian American writer, we're still not even truly addressed in the response.

5. Out of everything said in the response, I noticed that there wasn't an "I'm sorry" or "I may need to apologize" or any other statement like that even though Sherman Alexie is aware that he is "committing an injustice against poets of color, and against Chinese and Asian poets in particular".

And to be even more particular - Asian American poets.

6. "I chose a strange and funny and rueful poem written by Yi-Fen Chou, which turns out to be a Chinese pseudonym used by a white male poet named Michael Derrick Hudson as a means of subverting what he believes to be a politically correct poetry business".

When people use "politically correct" it basically means that they tire of hearing how others have been oppressed and don't want to update their own language to reflect equality - because they're lazy and feel their own entitlement slipping away into a fair and equitable playing field which does not coddle or placate to their specific needs - in this case a White Man.

In that way alone, the premise by the writer is inherently prejudiced and I don't feel, armed with that knowledge, it should have been selected.

7. While I understand the ideas behind blind readings or not wanting to know anything about a writer before you read a book because it may influence the interpretation of that text - in this context those are purely analytical and data-driven because we aren't talking about just the text. You can't argue just data and analytics because everything has a context and even Sherman Alexie himself says "Bluntly stated, I was more amenable to the poem because I thought the author was Chinese American."

The two are, and were, intertwined.

8. Here's a longer quote from the response:

"If I'd pulled the poem then I would have been denying that I gave the poem special attention because of the poet's Chinese pseudonym. If I'd pulled the poem then I would have been denying that I was consciously and deliberately seeking to address past racial, cultural, social, and aesthetic injustices in the poetry world. And, yes, in keeping the poem, I am quite aware that I am also committing an injustice against poets of color, and against Chinese and Asian poets in particular. But I believe I would have committed a larger injustice by dumping the poem. I think I would have cast doubt on every poem I have chosen for BAP. It would have implied that I chose poems based only on identity."

When I read that passage I couldn't help but think #3 above and that at the end of the day, part of the decision was about ego and vanity (which we all have), possibly economics (for himself and others) - and how those overrode the cultural and racial implications of the decision.

9. If the tables were turned, I just wonder how Sherman Alexie would feel and what he would want to hear from - well in this case himself - and I have to think he would have wanted more.

10. While I'm fine with pen-names and pseudonyms (as I too have used them) what I'm not fine with are those that are created and used for the sake of misleading others. If my pseudonym was anything other than Slanty/Slant-Eye as I've used in the past, and connoted that I was *not* an Asian American, but rather someone from the African American, or Latino communities - it would be misleading because it brings a false context to what I'm writing about - anything I'm writing about - because on face value it says I have one POV when in reality I do not.

11. Check out the poem response from Franny Choi down at Angry Asian Man to "m.d.h" because no matter what book or who selected the poems, or the legacy of the series - this will always be better than the one by "Yi-Fen Chou". See her site @ http://frannychoi.com.

Retro Good Beats: El Gambina and Marie Choi @ Sulu Series, March 16, 2008

Thursday, September 10, 2015

Watch Them (Because They're Still Fresh): The Asian American Film Lab 72 Hour Shootout Winners

Thursday, September 10, 2015

If you're like me (just pretend for now) sometimes you fall off the grid and the next thing you know you're wondering where you are, how you got there, and if you've been there before. Thankfully there was a nice man from Texas who gave you some cash to get out of the country (because it's called an airport fee) that allowed you to finally catch up on The Asian American Film Lab 72 Hour Shootout Winners.

  • My Two Faces by “Inspirasian” (Top Ten Film; Most Original Use of Theme)
  • Bare by “Chomp Productions” (Top Ten Film)
  • A Case of Mistaken Identities by “Dayside Productions” (Top Ten Film)
  • Finding You by “The Perfect Asian Pair” (Top Ten Film; Best Actor, Grant Chang; Best Director, Grant Chang)
  • Funny Faces by “Random Fox Productions” (Top Ten Film)
  • Hide and Seek by “GK Films” (Top Ten Film)
  • Rest Stop by “DTX Pictures” (Top Ten Film)
  • The Other Woman by “Tiny Giants” (Top Ten Film)
  • One Lunch by “RAWMIX Productions” (Top Ten Film; Best Writer, Rommel Andaya)
  • Boxer by “The MFA’s” (Top Ten Film; Grand Prize Winner; Best Actress; and Best Action Film, Toy Lei)
  • Shattered Beauty by “Team Spirited” (Snigdha Kappor, Best Cinematographer; and Audience Choice Award 2015)

LIFE STORIES // An Asian American Documentary Series + The BAND WITH NO NAME Film Company

Thursday, September 10, 2015



They've been putting these out all summer and if you haven't seen them yet, definitely worth checking out (or at least bookmarking?) as they have interviews with Nam Phan, Keiko Agena, Teppei Teranishi, and more.

CAAMFest San Jose 2015

Thursday, September 10, 2015



http://caamedia.org/blog/category/caamfest-2015/caamfest-san-jose-caamfest-2015/

Mmmm...Saigon's DISTRICT 10 Food

Thursday, September 10, 2015



Now I'm hungry.

Love cooking my own beef.

Mmmm....

Sexual Racism: "No Rice, No Spice, No Curry"? Ummm....No Thanks

Thursday, September 10, 2015

I was reading this article down at the DB and it made me think again how I always hope, but in a nice and loving way because I live in peace, that people who exclude whole groups of people in their dating and relationship lives end up in relationships that kinda suck, because they really do deserve it. Not beat-you-down everyone dies kinda suck, but normal, everyday how I do get this person out of my life because I didn't know they were such an incompetent slob but we signed a lease together sort of suck.