Random Tamlyn Tomita

The Volcano's Vagina: Ktown Cowboys Ep. 1

Nice.

Synopsis

When John Kim (Lanny Joon) relocates from the comforts of his picket-fence, WASP neighborhood of Richmond, Virginia to the alluring city of Ktown Los Angeles, the land of sultry women, Booking Clubs, and late night taco trucks, his arrival immediately sparks the most epic night of his life. His cousin, Jason (Shane Yoon) introduces John to his audacious crew (Peter Jae, Danny Cho, Sunn Wee, and Bobby Big Phony Choy) who teach John the basic yet inventive ways on how to survive the perfect Friday night in Ktown. Special appearances by Justin Chon (Twilight) and Bobby Lee (Mad TV).

http://www.ktowncowboys.com

Directed By: Daniel DPD Park

Written By: Danny Cho

Produced By: Lillian Ng, Liah Kim, Ellen Ho

Starring: Lanny Joon, Peter Jae, Sunn Wee, Danny Cho, Bobby Choy, and Shane Yoon

Executive Producers: Ginam Lee, Daniel Kim, Jay Hong D.P. Paul Sun / The Social Trust

Edited by: The Mighty Fifty
Composer/Orchestrator: Jonathan Wandag

Featured Music:

+ "Animal" by Far East Movement
http://www.fareastmovement.com

+ "Folk Music" by Far East Movement
http://www.fareastmovement.com

+ "Tell A Friend" by IllAgain
http://www.myspace.com/illagain

Thursday Tim Be Told: Analyze

I've gotten sent in some info on the band Tim Be Told before and while I haven't done any posts on them in the past I'm definitely feeling this video which is getting its official release (been out on YouTube for little bit) and some air time over at MTV Iggy.

Tim Be Told Releases “Analyze” Music Video and Announces Free Music Download

On May 5, 2010, Tim Be Told released a brand new music video for their song, “Analyze,” off the critically acclaimed “From the Inside” EP. Watch the video now at http://www.timbetold.com/, where you can download the single for free and visit the newly relaunched Tim Be Told store. Using real people rather than actors, “Analyze” highlights the internal struggles we all face and the battles waged between discouragement and hope. The video, directed by Jonathan Moy, projects the band’s positive outlook, with hope winning in the end. Tim Be Told’s uplifting music has earned them a legion of fans across the country. They have been touring relentlessly as a client of William Morris Endeavor Entertainment and, in between the dates, the band is spending some time in the studio working on a new record!

For those of you that want to see Tim Be Told perform at your university next year, the band has a limited number of shows that it will be playing at college campuses. Therefore, send a booking email request ASAP to booking@timbetold.com to reserve a spot. Don’t miss out!

See the band on tour live in a city near you and stay tuned to http://www.timbetold.com/ for the latest news and updates:

May 6 - Columbus, OH - BoMA
May 7 - Cincinnati, OH - Mainstay Rock Bar
May 8 - Los Angeles, CA - Panel at the Los Angeles Asian Pacific Film Festival
May 12 - Denver, CO - University of Denver
May 18 - Campbell, CA - World Mission Baptist Church
May 22 - Seattle, WA - APA Heritage Bash @ Ibiza Nightclub
May 28 - Wheaton, IL - WCAC Church
June 25 - Mineral City, OH - Alive Festival
June 26 - Nashville, TN - Lipscomb University

Go to their site to download "Analyze" for free.

CACF And Artists for Advocacy: [Focus]

Got this sent in and wanted to make sure and post it on up.

The Coalition for Asian American Children and Families Action Council Presents:

Artists for Advocacy: [Focus]

May 15, 2010 3pm - 9pm
Collective Hardware 169 Bowery @ Delancey
Cover donation: $15

* * *

Photography is one of the most powerful tools for advocacy, where a moment - captured in a fraction of a second - can move people's hearts, change their minds, and stir them to action. Join us for this showcase of up-and-coming Asian Pacific American photojournalists whose works highlight important social justice issues in our local and international community.
This one-day event will support their work, as well as the Coalition for Asian American Children and Families (CACF), the nation's only pan-Asian children and families' advocacy organization. You will have the opportunity to hear from the artists, as well as from Corky Lee, one of the first and most prominent Asian Pacific American photojournalists of the past 30 years.

Wine and light refreshments available. Pieces will also be available for sale. Questions? Email afa.focus@gmail.com

Featured photographers:

Albert Cheung (http://www.albertcheungphoto.com/)
Jeffrey Lau (http://www.jefflauphoto.com/)
Annie Ling (http://www.annielingphoto.com)
Bao Nguyen (http://baonguyenphoto.com/)
Minnow Park (http://www.minnowpark.com/)
Steve Saldana (http://www.studiosaldana.com/)
Ashok Sinha (http://www.ashoksinha.com/)
Watt Sriboonruang (http://www.flickr.com/photos/coolwatt/)

BD Wong Goes East

Random Stage News:

Asia Society announces that Tony Award-winning star of Law & Order: SVU, BD Wong will lead the cast of a staged concert of 'Heading East', a Richard RodgersDevelopment Award-winning musical by RoBert Lee and Leon Ko. Performances will be held in the Lila Acheson Wallace Auditorium at Asia Society. Asia Society will benefit from the proceeds of the event, which is co-produced by Andrew Asnes and directed by Darren Lee.

'Heading East' is set primarily in San Francisco from 1848-1981. This funny yet emotionally gripping musical tells the story of Siu Yee Tong, a brazen young man who travels from drought- and famine-ridden China to the shores of Gold Rush-era California determined to be the next great American success story. Siu Yee's lifelong quest to reinvent himself plays out against the tumultuous backdrop of a century and a half of American history: although the narrative spans 133 years, the characters age over the course of a single lifetime.

The cast is made up of twelve Asian-American actors playing a wide variety of roles, making the concert a celebration of Asian-American artists that coincides with Asia Society's Asian Pacific American Heritage Month programming throughout May.

The actors include Cindy Cheung, who stars in the film 'Children of Invention', Fay Ann Lee, who produced, directed and stars in the film 'Falling for Grace', and Manu Narayan (BOMBAY DREAMS, 'The Love Guru'). Lex Liang is the production designer for the concert.

Read it in full here.

More Documentary Love

If You're Not Sure You Can Win Your Lawsuit Just Add In Some Yellow Peril For Good Measure

Been getting sent in some news about this lawsuit which even though has nothing to do about race or ethnicity whatsoever - apparently isn't stopping people from making needless and offensive references to race - because you know - when all else fails - just blame us chinky MF's.

Led by the Asian Pacific American Legal Center (APALC), the coalition of community and legal organizations have cosigned a letter demanding that the racially insensitive language about the nationality of JM Eagle's employees and leaders be withdrawn from the complaint immediately [...]

The coalition takes no position about the merits of the lawsuit's claims, but it objects to the complaint's insensitive language. The coalition, which numbers seven organizations, includes the Anti-Defamation League, the Advancement Project, the Mexican American Legal Defense and Education Fund and the National Association of Latino Elected and Appointed Officials. The full text of the letter as well as a complete list of supporting organizations can be found on APALC's website, www.apalc.org.

Below are examples cited in the APALC letter of racially insensitive language:

-- The lawsuit claims that JM Eagle hired "Taiwanese nationals" with "significantly less experience and fewer credentials" than previous employees with no reference to their educational background or work experience. This implies that solely based on their nationality they are less qualified than previous employees.

-- The lawsuit goes to great lengths to say that Formosa Plastics Corporation, U.S.A., "is largely controlled by the Wang family of Taiwan." The ethnicity and nationality of the family that owns Formosa has nothing to do with the lawsuit.

-- The lawsuit states that JM Eagle's Director of Production is from Taiwan. The ethnicity and nationality of JM Eagle's Director of Production is not relevant.

-- The lawsuit includes the following line in the Second Amended Complaint: "Until approximately 2003, Formosa owned and operated a boarding house near its Livingston, New Jersey headquarters to accommodate the large number of Taiwanese employees... who could not otherwise afford to live in the greater New York Metropolitan area." This information is incorrect, but, more important, immaterial to the suit. It is clearly meant to stir resentment against employees of Asian descent and is intended to incite the biases of those who hate the idea of "a large number of Taiwanese employees" moving into their neighborhoods.

According to the letter: "It appears that the plaintiff in the case and his attorneys believe they stand to gain by repeatedly interjecting Asian ethnicity and nationality to describe various entities and individuals, even though ethnicity and nationality have no relevance whatsoever."

Words From Mike Honda And Bel Leong-Hong

From the DNC to my inbox and now on to you.

Congressman Mike Honda, DNC Vice-Chair

“As an Asian American, I spent much of my childhood in an internment camp during World War II. I know personally the challenges Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders have overcome over the past century, but I am also aware of the many opportunities America offers these diverse and talented groups to thrive today. Whether they trace their heritage to Hawaii, to America’s Pacific Island territories, or to a country across the ocean, Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders have a unique story to tell, one that has enriched the American culture. I join President Obama and people across America in reflecting on the unique contributions of those in the AAPI community and in celebrating the millions of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders who today continue to reach for the American Dream.”

Bel Leong-Hong, DNC Asian American and Pacific Islander Caucus Chair

“This is a time not only to celebrate Asian Americans’ and Pacific Islanders’ triumphs, but also to talk about the challenges still facing Asian Americans, Pacific Islanders, and other Americans of diverse heritage. President Obama has begun to address many of those challenges – working hard to promote equal opportunity, educational opportunity, and economic opportunity. I welcome the support of President Obama and Congressional Democrats for the Asian American and Pacific Islander community, and I look forward to their continued efforts on behalf of our community and Americans of all backgrounds. The strength of will, the motivation to succeed, and the passion of achievement are ingredients that continue to make the Asian American and Pacific Islander communities such vibrant parts of our American Society.”

Monday Morning Eddie Peng And Shu Qi

This Is All I Have To Say On The Sandra Bullock Adoption News Sweeping Our Nation

That is a cute baby though - and I don't really say that about a lot of babies...

I GPS You: Kim Jong-il Dots China

I already knew this because I'm really a spy for South Korea (and just for the record - I'm the one actually singing on all those Rain CD's you love).

North Korea's hardline leader Kim Jong-il appears to have entered China, his isolated state's biggest benefactor, for a rare trip abroad as tensions are running high on the peninsula, reports said Monday.

China has the most influence in curbing the North's military grandstanding and Kim's previous trips to his neighbor have led to steps that have reduced security concerns for the economically vibrant region.

The trip to China would be the first in four years and comes at a time when Seoul is considering ways to respond to a suspected North Korean attack on one of its naval ships. South Korea lost 46 sailors in what could be one of the deadliest strikes since the end of the 1950-53 Korean War.

Read more here.

So Good I Thought It Was Asian, Kick-Ass The Movie, And Yeah, I'll Go With Hit-Girl For President Too

I never really see movies when they come out right away - I don't like the crowds - and this weekend I finally went to see the film Kick-Ass - and it didn't just deliver on everything I thought it would - but damn - I actually went away from the film going "Are they sure that wasn't made in Asia? Because that's just too good to be coming out of the U.S." - and then I remembered - technically it's a co-production out of the UK and U.S.

Yeah.

I'm seeing that again.

Dear Lemon Lima

Unfortunately this post won't do the film Dear Lemon Lima which I just caught a couple of weeks ago (missed you down at SFIAAFF) any justic whatsoever - but without a doubt - one of the best films I've seen this year.

While you may not be able to get a full sense of the film from the trailer, it deals with race - and those absurd liberal people who want to be "inclusive of diverstiy" - in a funny, cute - but very real and true to life sort of way.

Highly recommend checking it out if you get a chance.

Direct From The President: Asian American And Pacific Islander Heritage Month (A Proclamation)

You all know what month it is.

It's that time of the year that basically says we got screwed too.

So you better give us our own month.

And yes - it should be all year round - but at least I can do things like beat down people, smile, and just walk away saying "What are you gonna do about it? It's my month."

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

A PROCLAMATION

For centuries, America's story has been tied to the Pacific. Generations of brave men and women have crossed this vast ocean, seeking better lives and opportunities, and weaving their rich heritage into our cultural tapestry. During Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, we celebrate the immeasurable contributions these diverse peoples have made to our Nation.

Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders have shared common struggles throughout their histories in America -- including efforts to overcome racial, social, and religious discrimination. This year marks the 100th anniversary of the Angel Island Immigration Station in San Francisco Bay, a milestone that reminds us of an unjust time in our history. For three decades, immigrants from across the Pacific arrived at Angel Island, where they were subject to harsh interrogations and exams, and confined in crowded, unsanitary barracks. Many who were not turned back by racially prejudiced immigration laws endured hardship, injustice, and deplorable conditions as miners, railroad builders, and farm workers.

Despite these obstacles, Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders have persevered and flourished, achieving success in every sector of American life. They stood shoulder to shoulder with their fellow citizens during the civil rights movement; they have served proudly in our Armed Forces; and they have prospered as leaders in business, academia, and public service.

This month, as we honor all Americans who trace their ancestry to Asia and the Pacific Islands, we must acknowledge the challenges they still face. Today, many Asian American and Pacific Islander families experience unemployment and poverty, as well as significant education and health disparities. They are at high risk for diabetes and hepatitis, and the number of diagnoses for HIV/AIDS has increased in recent years.

We must recognize and properly address these critical concerns so all Americans can reach their full potential. That is why my Administration reestablished both the White House Initiative and the President's Advisory Commission on Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders (AAPI). These partnerships include leaders from across our Government and the AAPI community, dedicated to improving the quality of life and opportunities for Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders.

Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders are a vast and diverse community, some native to the United States, hailing from Hawaii and our Pacific Island territories. Others trace their heritage to dozens of countries. All are treasured citizens who enrich our Nation in countless ways, and help fulfill the promise of the American dream which has drawn so many to our shores.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim May 2010, as Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month. I call upon all Americans to learn more about the history of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders, and to observe this month with appropriate programs and activities.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this twenty-ninth day of April, in the year of our Lord two thousand ten, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-fourth.

BARACK OBAMA

Interview: Soompi + Dumbfoundead

Jean Kwok: Girl In Translation

Meet Jean Kwak, author of Girl In Translation.

05/05/2010 6:00PM - 7:30PM
1 Ferry Building, #42, San Francisco, CA
Cost: Free

Jean Kwok's Girl In Translation chronicles the story of Kimberly, who immigrates from China to the US at the age of five. Though enduring a life of poverty and hardship, she appears as a successful and ambitious student. The story brings to live the dilemma many immigrants face, between succeeding in America, their own personal desires, and duty to their family.

Sponsor(s): Asia Society, Book Passage

Random Archie Kao At The LA Asian Pacific Film Festival

Trailer: The Mikado Project

This just had its premiere down at Los Angeles Asian Pacific Film Festival.

The Mikado Project, a feature film directed by Chil Kong will be premiering at the Los Angeles Asian Pacific Film Festival (LAAPFF) organized by Visual Communications, on May 1st at 9pm at the Directors Guild of America. This marks the world premiere of the film and cast and crew will be in attendance.

The Mikado Project is a musical comedy (based on the stage performance written by Ken Narasaki and Doris Baizley and adapted for film by Chil Kong) of a struggling Asian American theater company that, in a desperate publicity stunt to save their company, decides to produce a modern reconstruction of Gilbert and Sullivan’s, The Mikado, to stir controversy and jolt ticket sales.

The Mikado, one of the most beloved comedy operas by legendary collaborators, Arthur Sullivan and W.S. Gilbert, first opened on stage in 1885 in London. The story was set in Japan (considered an exotic land to the British during that era) which allowed Gilbert & Sullivan to satirize British politics. However, by doing so, Asians around the world and Asian Americans today have found this opera hard to embrace—making the notion of Asian American actors performing The Mikado controversial and palatable only through a comedic reconstruction.

The Mikado Project will be playing at the DGA’s Theater #1, a 600 seat state-of-the-art theater in where the LAAPFF traditionally schedules their most popular feature films throughout the festival. The feature presentation will be followed by a Q&A session with cast and crew.

“This is truly an honor to have our film premiere here at VC’s film festival,” says Director Chil Kong. “I have attended this event year after year, seen the dedicated work this group has devoted to Asian American cinema and it is incredible to know that my film will be playing here.”

The most notable component of The Mikado Project that audiences won’t be able to see but will certainly hear, are the new hip-hopera versions of the Gilbert & Sullivan’s musical compositions—outstanding beat box and rap mixes. The dance numbers are choreographed by members of the dance troupes, Kaba Modern and Jabbawockeez, from Randy Jackson’s hit show on MTV, “America’s Best Dance Crew,” giving the movie a whole new identity to an old operetta.

Learn more about the film here.

Laura Kina And A Many-Splendored Thing

An FYI for my people in Chicago just in case you didn't know (it runs through May 30 th).

"Laura Kina: A Many-Splendored Thing"

A retrospective featuring over thirty selected paintings, drawings and textiles (1995-present) from her Refrigerator, Hapa Soap Opera, Loving, Aloha Dreams, and Devon Avenue Sampler series as wellas some early and new works on exhibit for the first time. Kina's art collectively embraces "ikigai" or the Japanese belief of "a sense of life worth living" and reflects her "postcolonial pop aesthetic" as a multiracial Okinawan Jewish artist/educator/scholar living in a South Asian Indian neighborhood in Chicago.

Glance quickly at a Laura Kina painting and what comes to mind at first is Hello Kitty goes to Bollywood in Pearl Harbor by a Coca Cola sign. Or surely Pop gone haywire as the resultant byproduct the artist creates deftly fuses these loaded icons into a NeoPop Orientalism or less ironical Post Japonisme of East morphing West and vice versa not just Americanized but transnationalized.

Yet to label her oeuvre strictly as such is an injustice because what you also see ostensibly hybridizes the anecdotal and historical, family and society, private and public conflated through collage of art imitating, or drawing from, life, particularly her life as a mixed Asian "hapa haole" alternately fascinated, bemused and obsessed with being in-between.

Check more out at the Laura Kina blog.

Queer And Asian American

While I caught news of the conference late, I wanted to still make sure and post up some information because - well - it's just important.

What could history — some of it genuinely ancient — possibly have to do with contemporary issues facing the queer API community, from marriage equality to transgender rights? Quite a lot, I would argue. Why? Because possibly the biggest misconception in API communities is that we are lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgendered because we’ve been hanging around white people too much. The implicit assumption behind that misconception is one of a viral model of gender identity and sexual orientation. The implications for the struggle for LGBT rights are profound.

Read it in full here.