SDAFF10 Program Booklet

The 11th Annual
October 21–28, 2010
Be Wise. Love Film.

SDAFF10 program booklet v6.indd 1 9/26/10 10:58 AM
THE 11TH ANNUAL SAN DIEGO ASIAN FILM FESTIVAL | 2


Time Warner Cable is Proud
to Sponsor the Asian Film Festival
And nobody says that better
than our employees...
Sarina Dahlan
Marketing Manager
Le Quang
Lead Spec, Database IT
Ako ay natutuwa na
kami ay sumusuporta.
Pam Pantua
Executive Assistant
Watch selected films from the Asian Film Festival

any time you want, only on San Diego On Demand,
Channel 144 – FREE with Time Warner Digital Cable.
San Diego On Demand™ is available to current Time Warner Digital Cable subscribers in the San Diego area.
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866-202-4222 timewarnercable.com

WELCOME LETTER
As we enter a new decade of service, we can say that our “baby” – the San TABLE OF CONTENTS
Diego Asian Film Festival - is growing up. Many of you have been with us
for years to see how the Festival and our Foundation has evolved into a
6
community of its own. But if you are joining us for the first time, we welcome
you with open arms to our 11th film festival season! Message from Mayor
7
Our mission is to connect audiences with the human experience through the
Pan Asian media arts. Not only do we aspire to connect audiences but also About SDAFF
transform them.
BE WISE. LOVE FILM Foundation & Fest Staff 8
Through this Festival, we hope you leave feeling wiser about the world and
fall more in love with the art of motion pictures. This year, we are presenting Board of Directors 9
more than 140 short and feature length films in 8 days from 20 countries,
including our first films from Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, and a Filipino film Chairman’s Welcome 10
from Ireland.
Starting with our Opening Night Film, LEGEND OF THE FIST you will be the Sponsors 13
first in the U.S. to see this much anticipated martial arts epic directed by
Wai-Keung Lau, starring the prolific Donnie Yen (who stars in three SDAFF
films this year!) Bookending the Festival as our Closing Night Film is a quirky
Ticket Information 16
romantic comedy, AU REVOIR TAPEI, by the young and talented Taiwanese
filmmaker Arvin Chen. SDAFF membership 17
Within the enormous selection are more than a dozen short films programs
presented for the first time in High Definition. If you have never experienced Text to Phone Updates 18
a “shorts program” (a collection of short films packaged thematically), this
is a great time to start. From hilarious, comedy films (Ninja, Say What??), Hazard Center
to films about love (Wake Up, I Love You), the Japanese experience (Cinema
Bento) and even revenge (Eye for an Eye), each program is a journey through
Redevelopment Update 20
the lens of emerging filmmakers.
We also have an exciting lineup of first-time feature filmmakers who have
How to Festival 20
proven that good stories don’t need multi-million dollar budgets. Many
directors will be here to speak about their films, so be sure to check out Special Events 21
24
Christina Yao’s epic EMPIRE OF SILVER, Jeff Chiba Stern’s delightful ONE
BIG HAPA FAMILY, Lena Pendhakar’s family comedy RASPBERRY MAGIC, Festival Schedule
Gerry Balasta’s poignant MOUNTAIN THIEF, and Helie Lee’s hilarious
mockumentary, MACHO LIKE ME. Film & Program Guide 28
In addition, we have a special spotlight on trans-racial Adoption this year,
with a presentation of four features including IN THE MATTER OF CHA
JUNG HEE directed by award-winning filmmaker and Korean American
Adoption Spotlight 31
adoptee, Deann Borshay and the West Coast premiere of RESILIENCE by
Tammy Chu. There are dozens more films I wish I could point out, but hope
State of Animation 37
65
you will take the time to read in this booklet.
Finally, I want to personally thank my husband, Louis Song; our chairman
Reel Voices: Then & Now
97
Stephen Chin and our board of directors; our hardworking staff, members,
volunteers; and our generous sponsors, without whom this movement would Special Thanks
not be possible. To Joseph Balan, may you rest in peace, and say hello to
George for all of us! Print Source 98
Carpe Diem,
Lee Ann Kim

Founder and Executive Director
Program booklet designed by Marilyn Jones
with support from Jennifer Wang and John Im.


ABOUT THE SAN DIEGO ASIAN FILM FOUNDATION
We are a group of passionate, hard-working advocates of advancing quality Asian American and independent cinema. We believe our work
builds hope and understanding through the shared experiences of artists and audiences. Not to mention, we love to have fun!
MISSION
Our mission is to connect audiences with the human experience through the Pan Asian media arts.
We fulfill our mission by:
• Presenting unique, culturally-enriching programs that would otherwise be inaccessible;

• Engaging the public in meaningful discourse and positive social change;
• Promoting artistic excellence, innovation and the independent voice;
• Strengthening San Diego as an arts destination.
PROGRAMS
While we are best-known for our annual Film Festival, we offer year-round programs that include:
COMMUNITY & OUTDOOR REEL VOICES, MEMBERSHIP EVENTS

SCREENINGS a youth documentary boot camp
FREE FILMS ON DEMAND

We offer a free selection of SDAFF films throughout the year on TIME WARNER CABLE. If you are a digital subscriber,
go to Channel 144 and search for the SD ASIAN FILM tab. Click on the tab, and choose the film you’d like to see.
The San Diego Asian Film Foundation is a 501 (c)(3). Tax ID # 33-1001523
7290 Engineer Road, Suite A San Diego, CA 92111
858.565.1264 | www.SDAFF.org | info@sdaff.org

FOUNDATION AND FESTIVAL STAFF
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Jane Lee VOLUNTEER LEADS ADVISORY BOARD
Lee Ann Kim Monica Lim Richard Banh Brian Blake
Keige Tom JR Bungay Dr. Leeva Chung
ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR Jackie Vo Aleena Heng Jonathan Fohrman
Mye Hoang Justin Wong Rolo Herrera Robert Ito
Pamela Huynh Ed Nesfield
OPERATIONS DIRECTOR
SPECIAL EVENTS Billy Khang Dominic Tong
Phillip Lorenzo
Dennis-Michael Broussard Andrew Lanez Eddie Wang-Rodriguez
MARKETING DIRECTOR Sheila Kanoya Thu Nguyen
FESTIVAL JURY
Daniel Matthews Grace Lee Amara Tang
Dylan Marchetti
Kent Lee Amaris Tang
Hebe Tabachnik
ARTISTIC PROGRAMMERS Terry Matsuoka Brian Thai
Chris Tashima
Michael Chen Joanna Seetoo-Schiele
INTERNS K. Wayne Yang
Sam Chen Cynthia Yee
Gene Huh Sherilyn Bumatay
PUBLIC RELATIONS
Anderson Le PRODUCTION Mari Jacobson
COORDINATOR Andy Hoang
Eunjae Kim
Chris Paffendorf Nikki Jiminez, Focuscom
PROGRAMMING Mindy Kim
ASSISTANTS Grace Lee PHOTOGRAPHERS
Brandon Coyle FACILITIES
REEL VOICES Archie Acosta
Eric Lallana Kristin Hashimoto
INSTRUCTORS Jose Bucud
Jimmy Lee Ruriko Sato
Mike Watson, Coordinator Michael Domingo
Jason Low Edward Shaffer
Cheryl Kanekar Brian Figueroa
THEATER OPERATIONS Rodney Regala
ENTRY COORDINATOR REEL VOICES INTERNS
Mark Gadia Reggie Regala
Jennifer Lo Phillip Bernadino
Mario Guerrero Allan Regala
Brian Brennan Alex Tran
GRAPHIC DESIGN Thanh Hoang
Angel Gatus
John Im Ivan Li
Christian Guzman ACCOUNTING
Marilyn Jones Andy Lo
Calvin Ha Lee Forrester
Christopher Lee Christian Manzanan
Kanyon Iwami
Mark Reyes Shelly Yo LEGAL REPRESENTATION
Lauren Lynch
Jennifer Wang Mintz Levin
GUEST SERVICES Daniel Magana
COMMUNITY OUTREACH Bryce Griffin Kevin Tran
TRAILER ANIMATION
Jimmy Lee Jennifer Lo
BOARD OF DIRECTORS Steve Guitierrez
Christine Yeh
ONLINE CONTENT Stephen Chin, Chairman
Ryan Wong BOX OFFICE Lani Lutar, Vice Chair
Eunjae Kim Jaejung Kim, Secretary
WEB SITE Elaine Lallana Steven Hong, Treasurer
Ken Benavente Monica Lim Ranjit Dhindsa
Carissa Serie Amethyst Griffith
VOLUNTEER Dan Hom
COORDINATORS CUSTOMER SERVICE Sheila Kanoya
Mark Gadia Samantha Love Dr. Jeff Krebs
Julie Zhan Albert Lee
PROJECTIONISTS
Benjamin Lee
STREET TEAM Trevor Behan
Joe Mendoza
COORDINATOR Brook Falkenstein
Steve Peace
Jessica Ross Staci Gaines
Arturo Rivera
Mye Hoang
MARKETING ASSOCIATES Louis Song
Arnold Marquez
Frank Dinh Benjamin Tu
Jon Miller
Christine Hoang Sarah Yang
Chris Paffendorf
Glaiza de Gracia Cynthia Yee
Sonya Park
Grace Kim Jake Zamzow
Mea Lath

2010 BOARD OF DIRECTORS
The San Diego Asian Film Foundation is overseen by a passionate group of business and community leaders who volunteer their
time and expertise to help grow a dynamic organization. Board members are in charge of governance, ensure adequate resources
and help guide the Foundation’s strategic direction. Not to mention, they’re a pretty cool group of people to hang out with!
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
Stephen Chin, SDAFF Chair – Marketing Director, Sharp Health Plan
Lani Lutar, Vice Chair – Executive Director, San Diego County Taxpayers Association
Jaejung Kim, Secretary - Associate, Brown Law Group
Steven Hong, Treasurer – EVP, Automated TeleMedicine, Inc.
Dan Hom, Chairman Emeritus – President, Focuscom, Inc
MEMBERS AT LARGE
Ranjit Dhindsa - Divx
Amethyst Griffith - Matador Enterprises
Sheila Kanoya – Port of San Diego
Jeff Krebs – Kaiser Permanente
Albert Lee – Harrah’s Rincon Casino
Benjamin Lee - Bank of America Home Loans
Joe Mendoza – Katcam Real Estate
Steve Peace – JMI Realty
Art Rivera - Fusion Marketing
Benjamin Tu – Barona Valley Ranch and Casino
Louis Song – PROVEN Inc.
Sarah Yang – Wells Fargo
Cynthia Yee – GS Levine Insurance Services
Board members serve a minimum two year term, must be a paid member, and meet about 8 times a year. A detailed packet of
board requirements are available online at www.sdaff.org
(Front to Back, L to R) Sheila Kanoya, Jeff Krebs, Cynthia Yee, Amethyst Griffith, Sarah Yang, Joe Mendoza, Steve Peace,
Ranjit Dhindsa, Louis Song, Lani Lutar, Dan Hom, Stephen Chin, Arturo Rivera

LETTER FROM THE CHAIRMAN
Welcome to the 11th Annual San Diego Asian Film Festival!
The festival is a special time when we come together to celebrate the magic of film, applaud the
talents of artists and filmmakers, and rejoice in the diversity of our community.
One of our generation’s most successful filmmakers says, “Every time I go to a movie, it’s magic, no
matter what the movie’s about.” Film has the power to move us — it transcends our experiences,
transports us to new places and reveals our world anew. It’s “magic,” as Steven Spielberg reminds
us, and I believe film can also bring us together in wondrous ways.
Thank you to our members, donors, sponsors and community leaders, who support the SDAFF
and its ongoing community collaborations. With your generosity, the SDAFF continues to bring
people together through the magic of film.
In addition, I am grateful to our former Board Chairman, Dan Hom, as well as the dynamic and
committed Board of Directors, staff and volunteers. Their combined dedication and passion for the
SDAFF ensures we will continue to develop in even more relevant ways to improve our community.
And finally, I wish to thank Lee Ann. One would be hard pressed to separate her identity from that
of the SDAFF — her generous heart, bright spirit and tireless efforts embody the essence of the
SDAFF.
I feel truly blessed to be working with so many of you to make a positive and meaningful difference in the lives of those around us.
Thank you for supporting our community — and the magic of film!
Stephen R. Chin
SDAFF Board Chairman
A Big Round of Applause For
Pam Slater-Price Ron Roberts Greg Cox
for your continuous and invaluable support of arts, culture, and diversity in our region.
Our Patrons, Members And Filmmakers Thank You!

Filmmakers
bring creativity to life
Film festivals bring us the best cinematic productions of filmmakers

around the world. Their work captures our imagination.
We applaud the San Diego Asian Film Festival.
wellsfargo.com
© 2010 Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. All rights reserved. Member FDIC. (130506)

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Sharp Health Plan
is a proud sponsor of the
San Diego Asian Film Festival
As the only San Diego-based commercial health plan, we not only serve the people of San Diego County —
we are the people of San Diego County.
Advocate
We believe our members deserve a trusted health care partner and advocate.
Family
We believe our members are important, and health care should be personal.
Neighbor
We believe it’s important to live, work and play in the same community as our members.
SHP 47A © 2008SHC
(619) 228-2300 or 1-800-359-2002 | www.sharphealthplan.com


2010 SPONSORS
OFFICIAL CAR SPONSOR
MAJOR GRANTS
OFFICE OF COUNTY
SUPERVISOR
RON ROBERTS
LARGE THEATER SPONSOR
SMALL THEATER SPONSORS

AUDIENCE AWARD
GALA PRESENTERS
REEL VOICES PRESENTERS EDUCATION PARTNER
MAJOR MEDIA SPONSORS
SPOTLIGHT
Consulting | Staffing | Solutions

REEL IN THE VOTE FREE FILMS AT FOUR
JOHN S. YI
SCREENING SPONSORS
AMERICAN CHINESE ASSOCIATION FOR PRESERVING
CULTURE AND EDUCATION HISTORICAL ACCURACY OF acquisition post-production presentation archive
FOUNDATION FOREIGN INVASIONS IN CHINA
Hom Family Fund

SAN DIEGO
CHINESE AMERICAN
ASSOCIATION CENTER OF INCLUSION
AND DIVERSITY
EVENT SPONSORS TEXTING SPONSOR
COMMUNITY PARTNERS
Atomic Phizz BARNARD

Productions ELEMENTARY
JON BLOCK
PRESENTS
PRICE
CHARITIES
MEDIA PARTNERS
The National City Times
The Filipino Times
“serving o ur c o mmunit y”
IN-KIND DONORS
BOB HOFFMAN VIDEO| CHIPOTLE | GAMI SUSHI | GOLDILOCKS | KASHI | NOZOMI
PHUONG TRANG RESTAURANT | POPCHIPS | SANSAI | SAN DIEGO AUDIO VIDEO | SAFFRON
SPIRITS GRAPHICS AND PRINTING | SUSHI ON A ROLL | ZION MARKET

2010 TICKET PRICES
To guarantee seating, patrons must show up at least 15 minutes before showtime.
N0N-MEMBER PRICES
Opening & Closing Night Films $18 (LEGEND OF THE FIST & AU REVOIR TAIPEI)
General Admission $10.50
Student/Senior/Military/ Child $8 (Must present ID, only good for General Admission)
Panels $5
Festival 4-pack (while available) $34
SDAFF MEMBER PRICES

Opening & Closing Night Films $12 (LEGEND OF THE FIST & AU REVOIR TAIPEI)
General Admission $7
Panels Free (must get ticket at box office)
All Festival Pass $175 (while supply lasts)
Become a member for as low as $55/year. Sign up for membership inside Hazard Center UltraStar lobby during Festival or
online at SDAFF.org for ticket and merchandise discounts, plus freebies!
*All online sales are subject to $1 fee per ticket plus 3% surcharge on order. Group sales are also subject to these charges.
FREE PROGRAMS:
Free Films at 4:00PM, presented by John S. Yi of
• Ni Hao Kai-Lan and Kid’s Corner (Oct 23)
• Blowfish Music Party (Oct 23)
• Interpretations Panel (Oct 24)
• Reel Voices (Oct 24)
REFUND POLICY
No refunds for unused tickets, 4-packs, 10-packs, or all-festival passes.
SOLD-OUT SCREENINGS / RUSH LINES

When a program is sold out, there is a good chance seats will be available through a “RUSH LINE” at the theatre.
Rush lines start outside the theater 30 minutes before the show. We offer all open seats 10 minutes before showtime
on a first-come, first serve basis to those waiting in the Rush Line.
FESTIVAL VENUES
OCT 21–28, 2010
UltraStar Mission Valley Cinemas
7510 Hazard Center Drive
San Diego, CA 92108
BLOWFISH MUSIC SHOWCASE (OCT 23)

Mission Valley Marriott, Outdoor Pavilion
8757 Rio San Diego Drive
San Diego, CA 92108

SDAFF MEMBERSHIP
Join a community of supporters of Asian American cinema and culture. As a MEMBER, you receive discounts on film festival tickets
and merchandise, invitations to member-only events, and access to sneak preview screenings of films prior to their theatrical release.
Membership lasts one year from sign-up. Start today by joining online at www.sdaff.org
All current members through November 1 get a chance to win a 7-day cruise for two from
Holland America Line. Drawing takes place november 11th. Become a member today.
WE THANK OUR 2010 MEMBERS FOR THEIR GENEROUS SUPPORT!

LIFETIME MEMBERS Amethyst and Susan Kim Karen Beeson Nancy Liu
($10,000 +) Robert Griffith Jeff Krebs Vivian Biely Jerry Lu
Allan Camaisa Shan Huang Benson Lam Jeffrey Brosbe Mark Matsui
Johnny Chou Albert Lee Jeffrey Lee Ellen Brown and Bridget McDonald
Rich Lee and Soang Lee Kate Leonard and Zoe Merewether Dan McLeod
Thomas Lee Richard Forsyth Greg Brown Brian Mehl
PRODUCER Kyong Macek Karen Lim Jose Bucud Sarah Meland
($1,000+) Lynne and Paul Matthews Tommy and Bonnie Lim Arthur Carbonell Keith Momon
Theresa Battle Laurel Nishida Cindy Lin and Chris Reyes Sam Chan Joff Morales
Joon Han Chris Paffendorf Phil Lorenzo Chaur-Yang Cheng Nathalie Morales
Diana Mar Jip-Chuh Robert Pelia May McLean Joseph Cheung Stephanie Moy
Tom and Loretta Hom Jeremy Pizzola Joe Mendoza Michelle Cheung Lyman Ng
Chong Lee Denson Pokta Nicole Miller-Coleman Siatnee Chong Stefan Nguyen
Ed Lee Elise Prosser Minh Nguyen Jane Chung Thanh Nguyen
James Lee Miyo and Mitchell Reff Tanya Nguyen Judy Chung and Jacqueline Pablo
The Lew Foundation Art Rivera Elizabeth Nolan Benjamin Lee Lina Park and Dae Lee
George Lin (in memoriam) Cuong Trang Erica-Anne Okamura Kathleen Clavero Pat Pepper
Eddie Wang Rodriguez Kenneth Wade Shirley Omori and Efton Jessie Crozier Ty Phimmasone
Dominic Tong and Mike and Music Watson Woodford John Dacapias Guy Poirier
Katherine Bowdish Susie Willemsz-Geeroms Joy Pakingan Gary Davis Trent Reid
Jim Wade Ryan Wong Sue Ann Park Michael Dodge Daniel Roose
Sarah Yang Raymond Park Christopher Ekren Anne Louise Ross
Bennett Peji Toshiye Estes Bruce Rowe
DONORS ($100+) Greg Penetrante RB Francisco Chris Rule
PATRONS ($500+) Elias Almazan Pete Peters and Todd Futa Carolyn Gerhart Peggy Russell
Sheila Abrenica Kanoya Richard Banh Lloyd La Plant Jr. Jasmine Gipson Tae Sawada
Mike Avila Gale Barlow David Quon Jim Gottlieb Wayne Sherman
Ken Benavente Paul Bergman Luis Ramos Wendy Grice Grace Shih
Thomas Dring Brian Blake Reggie Regala Sharon Griswold David Shina
Grace DuVall Jeanne Burch KR Ridge Amy Harris Shawn Skinner and
Amethyst and Robert Kyle Chan Jessica Ann Ross Kaori Hashimoto and Huong Duong
Griffith Dawn Chang Randal Schober Tom Jacobson Ryan Suda
Dan Hom Lee Chang Wendy Urushima-Conn Kathi Heiser Merle Thrasher
Dale Inahara Yegin Chen John Skrentny Trang Ho Annamarie Till
Jaejung Kim Betty Chin Mark Stabb Mye Hoang Ronnie Tuatagaloa
Sam Kim Sandra Chong William Saung James Hsu Greg Toya
Marcia Kingzio Anita Dawson Grace Seid Pamela Huynh Thomas Truong
Mathew Long Jeet Dhindsa Joyce and Bill Teague Kenji Ima Jan Vangrov
Johnny Mah James Faupel Elizabeth Tran Leslie Ima Karen Wang
Joseph Ongsiapco and Sal Flor Benjamin Tu Edna Ito Niki Wells
Fawn Yang Jonathan Fohrman Felix Tuyay Gary Jensen Jon Wesick
Sudarma Pokta and Allen Fuqua Rainer Wagester Hajime and Clare Kanoya Matthew Wong
Tomomi Ushii Kikue Graeber Sean Wang Chikako Keith Cynthia Yee
Willie and Lois Fong Sakai Steven Hadley Michael Wells and Chris Keith Heidi Yuen
Robert Sanchez Sylvie Hinh Sung Ae Yoon Elizabeth Kim
Michael Sasaki Erika Hiramatsu and James KW Yee John Kim
Louis Song and Michael Cheswick Sunny J Kim
Lee Ann Kim A Hobbs Mike Klass
Charles and Linda Tu Steven Hong FRIENDS ($55+) Elaine and Eric Lallana
Takeo Hoshi Elly Aguilar Jason Lam
Shan Huang and Paul Jason Arcand Grant Lewis
SUPPORTERS ($250+) Brown Andrew Arvai Jennifer Lo
Keith Calistro Linda Jamieson Maria Ballesteros Henry Louria
Stephen Chin David Kawamoto Steve Barlow Yam Lee
Russell Ginns Jinah Kim-Perek Roel Bautista Gerardo Leon

RECEIVE TEXT TO PHONE FILM FESTIVAL UPDATES
Powered by
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Become a Festival Insider by Text "SDAFF" to 53137 You will receive a confirmation You're now registered to receive
joining our texting campaign text message. Festival updates, discounts,
As an added bonus, everyone who opts in by Oct 22, 2010, will automatically
be entered into a contest to win one of two $50 Visa gift cards.
For contest rules and information: www.sdaff.org

HAZARD CENTER REDEVELOPMENT UPDATE
When are we moving and other FAQs
In May, the San Diego City council approved the $200 million redevelopment of the Hazard Center which includes
the elimination of the current Ultrastar Cinemas space. The San Diego Asian Film Festival, along with other local
film festivals, have called this theater venue “home” for many years because of its central location, affordability, free
parking and state-of-the-art digital projection. The SDAFF will eventually relocate the Festival as a result.
Why and When will the Hazard Center theater be demolished?

Developer Oliver McMillan is adding 470 housing units to the Hazard Center in addition to new retail and park space.
The theater venue will be demolished to make room for a parking lot.
Construction should begin no sooner than 2012. That means we can host the Asian Film Festival at the Hazard Center
until at least through 2011.
Will the San Diego Asian Film Festival continue?

Of course! We consider the impending loss of the Hazard Center theater as an opportunity for growth. We are already
working on a transition plan and have received enormous support from the Mayor’s office, City Council, the County
Board of Supervisors as well as community and business leaders to make sure our move does not adversely affect
our organization and those we serve. Our Board of Directors and staff are also 100% committed to maintain quality
programming to achieve our mission.
Why don’t you just move to another movie-plex or theater?

There are many factors that go into choosing a Festival venue - the type of film projection available, the number of
rentable auditoriums and number of seats, storage space for films, the cost of renting the theater, vendor space,
parking, and location. Moving a week-long Festival will take a lot of strategy, marketing, and additional funding.
What is the SDAFF doing to prepare for this transition?

We are assembling a Transition Team to help research potential exhibition venues, develop marketing strategy, and
ensure adequate resources for the move. The Hazard Center developer has promised to keep us in the loop on any
construction dates, and we are closely following plans for future construction of several movie theaters in San Diego
that will be “Festival Friendly.” OliverMcMillan and the Principal Financial Group have also donated $25,000 to the
Asian and Latino Film Festivals for transition planning. The CEO of Oliver McMillan, Dene Oliver, has committed his
personal support in helping to develop a strategic plan for our transition.
I am a SDAFF member. Will this transition affect my SDAFF membership?

The transition will not affect membership. We are looking to increase benefits for members through the transition and
turn to you for feedback on potential locations.
How can I find out more about this transition? And How can I help?
The best way to help simply to continue supporting us through membership and attendance of our programs. No
matter where we go, we need you to move with us. Also, if you want to stay informed, please sign up to receive email
update on our website at: www.SDAFF.org. You can also volunteer to participate in our Transition Team.
Feel free to send us your questions, comments, concerns, and ideas to info@sdaff.org.

TEN TIPS ON HOW TO FESTIVAL
Attending a film festival can be overwhelming, so we’ve compiled some tips on how to maximize your Festival
experience.
1. CLEAR YOUR SCHEDULE

The Festival only comes once a year, so treat it like a mini vacation. You’ll get the most out of it by simply planning
ahead and keeping your schedule open October 21 – 28.
2. TRY SOMETHING NEW

Be bold and adventurous with your film picks. Try a documentary or a few of our short film programs, which are being
projected for the first time in High Def!
3. JOIN US FOR SPECIAL EVENTS

Whether it’s the opening or closing night reception, art show, live music, film discussion, the gala awards dinner, or live
film project, these special events are what make the festival a Festival!
4. GET CELL PHONE UPDATES : TEXT “SDAFF” to 53137

Be the first to learn about newly added or cancelled screenings, surprise announcements, discounts, coupons, and
freebies ON YOUR CELL PHONE. Text “SDAFF” to 53137 to become a FESTIVAL INSIDER.
5. CONNECT WITH SDAFF ONLINE

Follow : @SDAFF | Engage in conversation: #SDAFF11
Become a fan: Facebook.com/SDAsianFilm
Subscribe : Youtube.com/SanDiegoAsianFilm
6. BECOME A MEMBER
Memberships start at $55 and pay-back easily through discounted tickets, exclusive member screenings. Only
members can purchase All-Festival Passes. Sign up by Oct 31 and be entered to win a 7-day cruise for two on Holland
America Line.
7. FESTIVAL ON A BUDGET
Save money by purchasing the 4 or 10-pack of tickets.
FREE FILMS AT FOUR every weekday presented by John S. Yi,
Save your TICKET STUB for specials at the following businesses:

• Applebee’s 20% off • Joe’s Crab Shack Free Appetizer Party 4+
• Maria Maria Restaurant 10% off (except happy hour) • Quiznos $1 off regular sub/$2 off large sub
• Randy Jones All American Grill 20% off food • Sansai Japanese Grill 25% off meals from 3:30-6PM
• Smashburger Free Smash Fry w/purchase • ULAN MED SPA 10% off services Call 619-294-8526
• Yogurtland 10% off
Hazard Center locations only.
8. TELL US WHAT YOU THINK

We love compliments, and if you have a complaint, we want to know too (but please, don’t yell at us, it hurts our
feelings). We have a COMMENT BOX in our lobby, and please fill out a survey.
9. TALK FILM
Participate in Q&As and film discussions. Broaden your film appreciation!
10. MORE RANDOM TIPS

Bring a sweater: sometimes the theaters get cold.
Arrive 15–30 minutes before each show.
Clean up after yourself after each show. This helps us turn around theaters faster.

SPECIAL EVENTS
SOLES FOR ORPHANS PROJECT OCT 21-28 | UltraStar Cinemas Lobby

As part of our spotlight on adoption, attendees are invited to donate new shoes, socks, and shoelaces to be donated
to Buckner International, which distributes shoes for children in 68 countries. Along with shoes, we invite you to also
write a letter to go with your donation.
OPENING NIGHT PARTY THU OCT 21, 9PM–Midnight | Maria Maria Restaurant
Join us at the Hazard Center’s newest restaurant, Maria Maria, as we kick off our 11th film festival with
complimentary appetizers and Stella Artois. Ticket or pass holders only. Sponsored by Union Bank.
FRIDAY NIGHT PARTY AT THIN BAR FRI OCT 22, 9pm–2am | Thin Bar (Gaslamp)
Come party and dance with us downtown at Thin Bar (919 Fourth Ave.). Drinks specials all night. Free with Festival
badge or to get on guest list, email RSVP@sdaff.org. Sponsored by MYX and Victory Entertainment.
GALA AWARDS DINNER SAT OCT 23, 7PM | Mission Valley Marriott
Dress to impress as we announce the top films of our Festival. Great food, hosted beer and wine, and live
entertainment. Presented by Wells Fargo & Viejas Enterprises. $200/seat. RSVP at gala@sdaff.org
BLOWFISH LIVE MUSIC SHOWCASE SAT OCT 23, 10PM–1:00AM | Mission Valley Marriott
Our popular annual live music showcase, join us for BLOWFISH: INTERSECTION OF SIGHTS AND SOUNDS. Special
guests DJ Icy Ice and Toquon of Soul Elevation. Sponsored by Toyota and Verizon Wireless. Located at Mission
Valley’s outdoor pavilion. Free.
REEL VOICES SUN OCT 24, 12:20PM | UltraStar Cinemas

Free showcase of films from the SDAFF’s popular Teen Video Producers Program. Presented by Bank of America and
Union Bank.
ASIAN AMERICANS SUN OCT 24, 12:15PM | UltraStar Cinemas

IN HOLLYWOOD (PANEL)
A panel of hot, young talent who are making their mark in Hollywood including Harry Shum, Jr. (Glee, League of
Extraordinary Dancers), Jon M. Chu (director of Step Up 2), Ellen Wong (Scott Pilgrim), Aaron Yoo (Disturbia, Friday
the 13th), and CS Lee (Dexter). Free for members/passholders or $5/door
INTERPRETATIONS (FREE PANEL) SUN OCT 24, 2:15PM | UltraStar Cinemas

From the folks at YouOffendMeYouOffendMyFamily, see the top submissions of their INTERPRETATIONS filmmaking
contest where the public was provided “One Script, Endless Possibilities.” Scheduled to speak – director Justin Lin,
actors Danny Pudi and Roger Fan. Free!
CLOSING NIGHT PARTY THU OCT 28, 9PM | All American Grill
Join us as we wrap our 11th film festival at All American Grill (located at Hazard Center between Kinko’s and
Doubletree hotel) with complimentary food, silent auction, and raffles. Ticket or passholders only. Sponsored by
TECO.

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628709
SCHEDULE OF PROGRAMS
ALL film programs take place at the Mission Valley UltraStar Cinemas at Hazard Center
Times & films are subject to change. Additional screenings may be added. For the latest, go to our Web site, www.sdaff.org or
text SDAFF to 53137 for cell phone updates.
THURSDAY OCT 21
THEATER 7 - BARONA THEATER 6 - VERIZON THEATER 1 - STELLA ARTOIS THEATER 2 - SHARP HEALTH
7:00PM LEGEND OF THE FIST 8:00PM 71: INTO THE FIRE 4:00PM INTERNATIONAL 7:30PM BANDHOBI
(OPENING NIGHT FILM) 120mins DEPARTURES 107mins
113mins (FREE) 109mins
7:15PM CINEMA BENTO
87mins
9:30PM KAMUI
120mins
FRIDAY OCT 22
7:10PM STANDING QUEER 5:10PM YOUNG & RESTLESS 4:00PM GOOD MORNING 5:30PM IF I KNEW WHAT YOU SAID
92mins 84mins PRESIDENT 88mins
(FREE) 132mins
9:30PM CLASH 7:20PM EMPIRE OF SILVER 7:30PM IN THE MATTER OF
90mins 113mins 6:35PM BEYOND HUMAN CHA JUNG HEE
74mins 64mins
8:20PM NINJA, ARE YOU CRAZY?? 9:15PM COLIN HEARTS KAY
90mins 90mins
10:30PM ROBOGEISHA
102mins
SATURDAY OCT 23
11:00AM TAHAAN 12:45PM ONE VOICE 10:30AM NI HAO KAI-LAN’S 12:20PM SONGS FROM
105mins 84mins BIG PLAY & KIDS’ CORNER THE SOUTHERN SEAS
(FREE) 67mins 88mins
1:00PM INTERNATIONAL 2:45PM STATE OF ALOHA
DEPARTURES 78mins 12:15PM WO AI NI MOMMY 2:10PM ONE BIG HAPA FAMILY
109mins 176mins 84mins
4:45PM WAKE UP, I LOVE YOU
3:30PM A BRAND NEW LIFE 82mins 2:00PM MACHO LIKE ME 4:10PM THE HOUSE OF SUH
6:40PM EYE FOR AN EYE
5:30PM TIME TRAVELLER 86mins 3:55PM EMPIRE STATE OF MIND 6:30PM RASPBERRY MAGIC
9:40PM MANILA SKIES
8:00PM BODYGUARDS 98mins 6:10PM GOEMON 8:25PM THE ACTRESSES
& ASSASSINS 128mins 104mins
139mins
8:50PM AIR DOLL 10:30PM ALIEN VS. NINJA
125mins 181mins
SUNDAY OCT 24
12:20PM REEL VOICES 12:15PM ASIAN AMERICANS 12:30PM NINJA, ARE YOU CRAZY?? 12:40PM RAMCHAND PAKISTANI
(FREE) 90mins IN HOLLYWOOD PANEL 90mins 105mins
90mins
2:00PM CITY OF LIFE 2:25PM ANIMATION: 2:50PM FINDING FACE
AND DEATH 2:10PM INTERPRETATIONS THE ILLUSION OF LIFE 68mins
132mins PANEL 84mins
5:00PM LITTLEROCK
(FREE) 90mins
4:35PM ECHOES OF 4:45PM HE(ART) OF THE MATTER 84mins
THE RAINBOW 4:10PM CAST ME IF YOU CAN 83mins
7:10PM 71: INTO THE FIRE
117mins 97mins
6:40PM FOOL FOR LOVE 120mins
7:00PM IP MAN 2 6:30PM THE MOUNTAIN THIEF 99mins
9:30PM YOGA
108mins 78mins
8:55PM KAMUI 98mins
8:35PM THE PHOTOGRAPH 120mins
98mins

MONDAY OCT 25
5:10PM 48 HR FILM PROJECT 5:40PM MIXED PLATE SPECIAL 5:30PM PROMISE AND UNREST 4:00PM RASPBERRY MAGIC
(FREE) 90mins 75mins 94mins (FREE) 88mins
7:00PM TIME TRAVELLER 7:40PM IF I KNEW 7:25PM SONGS FROM THE 6:00PM RESILIENCE
122mins WHAT YOU SAID SOUTHERN SEAS 75mins
88mins 88mins
9:30PM CLASH 8:00PM THE RED CHAPEL
90mins 9:40PM COLIN HEARTS KAY 9:20PM GOEMON 88mins
90mins 128mins
9:55PM YOGA
98mins
TUESDAY OCT 26
4:00PM TAHAAN 5:25PM CAST ME IF YOU CAN 5:15PM TIBET IN SONG 5:40PM VOICES IN THE CLOUDS
(FREE) 105mins 97mins 86mins 77mins
7:00PM ABOUT HER BROTHER 7:30PM NINOY AQUINO 7:40PM THE TAQWACORES 7:15PM THE HOUSE OF SUH
126mins 56mins 92mins 95mins
8:55PM EMPIRE OF SILVER 9:30PM MACHO LIKE ME 9:20PM UNCLE BOONMEE
WEDNESDAY OCT 27
7:00PM IP MAN 2 5:15PM WAKE UP, I LOVE YOU 4:00PM CINEMA BENTO 5:20PM HIROSHIMA NAGASAKI
108mins 82mins (FREE) 87mins DOWNLOAD
72mins
7:30PM ANIMATION: 6:30PM ECHOES OF THE RAINBOW
THE ILLUSION OF LIFE 117mins 7:15PM CAFÉ SEOUL
84mins 120mins
8:45PM AIR DOLL
9:20PM BODYGUARDS & 125mins 9:35PM THE MOUNTAIN THIEF
ASSASSINS 78mins
139mins
THURSDAY OCT 28
7:00PM AU REVOIR TAIPEI 5:20PM VOICES IN 5:10PM CAFÉ SEOUL 4:00PM RESILIENCE
(CLOSING NIGHT FILM) THE CLOUDS 120mins (FREE) 75mins
85mins 77mins
7:45PM THE RED CHAPEL 5:30PM EMPIRE STATE OF MIND
88mins 90mins
7:20PM LITTLEROCK
85mins
Additional showings TBA on www.sdaff.org


Impacting today’s generations through positive messages about
contemporary icons. Risen asks people about their successes,
failures, challenges and spirituality. We tell stories by digging
beneath the surface because life is raw, it’s real, and so is Risen.

2010
FILM AND
PROGRAM GUIDE
Be Wise. Love Film.

OPENING NIGHT FILM
LEGENDOF THEFIST
THE RETURN OF CHEN ZHEN
THU OCT 21, 7:00PM
Contains language and strong violence
Hong Kong | Cantonese w/English subtitles

113 minutes | 35mm | 2010
DIRECTOR: Andrew Lau
PRODUCERS: Andrew Lau, Gordon Chan
CAST: Donnie Yen, Shu Qi, Anthony Wong
2010 Toronto International Film Festival

2010 Venice International Film Festival
West Coast Premiere
Set seven years after the conclusion of the landmark 1995 television series, Fist of
Fury, Donnie Yen (Ip Man, SDAFF ’09) reprises his role as the famed Chen Zhen in n
this new film. Chen Zhen, presumed dead after avenging his mentor Huo Yuanjia,
returns to a Japanese-occupied Shanghai incognito in order to infiltrate the local
crime organization. Upon his arrival, Chen Zhen soon befriends a nightclub owner
(Anthony Wong) and becomes involved with a sexy nightclub performer (Shu Qi).
While undercover, he discovers that the mob has been secretly colluding with
the Japanese and when the Japanese military disseminate a “death list” of local
targeted for assassination, the heroic Chen Zhen dons his mask and fights for
the Chinese resistance.
Directed and lensed by the famed Andrew Lau (Infernal Affairs), the film artfully combines
ombines
cutting edge visual style, dynamic martial arts action and the talents of a star-studded
r-studded cast. With his
charismatic performance, Donnie Yen rightfully takes his place amongst the greats of martial arts cinema in playing an iconic
character first immortalized by the legendary Bruce Lee in the original 1972 film Fist of Fury. Described by The Hollywood Reporter as a
“popcorn movie of epic proportions”, LEGEND OF THE FIST: THE RETURN OF CHEN ZHEN is a film not to be missed.
Opening Night Party Screening Sponsors:

sponsored by Union Bank Dr. Robert and Mao Shillman
Maria Maria Restaurant Lew Family Foundation
9pm to close
Ticket holders and pass holders are invited to enjoy
hosted drinks and appetizers following the film. THE 11TH ANNUAL SAN DIEGO ASIAN FILM FESTIVAL | 29

CLOSING NIGHT FILM
AUREVOIRTAIPEI
(YIYE TAIBEI)
THU OCT 28, 7:00PM
Contains language and strong violence
Taiwan / USA | Min Nan and Mandarin w/English subtitles

85 minutes | 35mm | 2010
DIRECTOR/WRITER: Arvin Chen
PRODUCERS: In-Ah Lee, Wei-Jan Liu, Oi Leng Lui, Wim Wenders
CAST: Jack Yao, Amber Kuo, Hsiao-chuan Chang and Ko Yu-Luen
2010 Berlin International Film Festival (NETPAC Prize)

2010 Barcelona Asian Film Festival (Best Film) 2010 San Francisco Asian American Film Festival (Audience Award)
2010 Los Angeles Asian American Film Festival 2010 Hawaii International Film Festival
2010 Seattle International Film Festival 2010 Asian Film Festival of Dallas (Best Narrative Feature)
There have been many recent youthful romantic comedies that play out over the course of one night (Dazed and Confused, In Search of a
Midnight Kiss, Nick and Norah’s Infinite Playlist) and you can now add the name AU REVOIR TAIPEI near the top of the list.
Kai (Jack Yao) is crushed when his girlfriend leaves for Paris and doesn’t appear eager to return his phone calls. He spends his night
working in his parents’ noodle shop and languishing in the foreign language aisle of a local book store brushing up on his French and
daydreaming of a time when he will once again be united with his love.
Bathed in a softly lit, dazzlingly iridescent neon glow reminiscent of the works of producer Wim Wenders and backed by a lovely Django
Reinhardt inspired score, Arvin Chen’s debut feature continually keeps us guessing with its elegant structure and delightfully peculiar
collection of characters. Add an aging mobster eager to recruit Kai as a bag man, a quartet of tenderfoot hoodlums dressed in day-glo
orange suits (they look like an Asian Four Tops cover band), and an engaging stock girl who does a not-so mean Lindy Hop and you have
the makings of a date film extraordinaire! — Scott Marks
Filmmaker Arvin Chen scheduled to attend.
Sponsored by:
Closing Night Party

Randy Jones All American Grill | 9pm following the film Q&A
Co-presented by:
Ticket holders and pass holders are invited to come enjoy hosted drinks and appetizers!
House of China
Say “Au Revoir” to filmmaker Arvin Chen and the whole SDAFF crew!
Taiwanese American Community Center
University of San Diego Center for Inclusion and Diversity

SPOTLIGHT ON ADOPTION by Lee Ann Kim
Never before has the issue of transracial adoption been so widely discussed (and publicized) in American culture especially with the growing
number of celebrities adopting children outside their own race such as Angelina Jolie, Sandra Bullock, Madonna, and Katherine Heigl. The
discourse is also being fueled by a growing number of stories in the media, along with adoptees themselves who have become outspoken
advocates, writers, and filmmakers.
While transracial adoption may appear to be widely accepted, it continues to carry a stigma within Asian cultures and communities, which is
directly related to the low rates of Asians adopting Asian children. The issue is delicately complicated and multi-layered about identity, lineage,
shame, and fear.
As a proud mother of a Korean adoptee, I am fascinated by the many perspectives on adoption that are presented each year on the film festival
circuit, especially this year. We hope our Adoption Spotlight provides a platform of learning and discovery through our presentation of the
following four films:
A BRAND NEW LIFE (p. 33)

Directed by Ounie Lecomte
Based on the director’s own experience

of abandonment, prior to her adoption
into a French family.
Oct 23
IN THE MATTER OF
CHA JUNG HEE (p. 54)
Directed by Deann Borshay Liem
The director’s personal journey seeking

the very person she was “switched” for in
an orphanage.
Oct 22
RESILIENCE (p. 68)

Directed by Tammy Chu
A Korean adoptee reunites with his

birth mother through a game show,
unleashing her story of life-long regret.
Oct 24, 28
WO AI NI MOMMY (p. 74)

Directed by Stephanie Wang Breal
A young Chinese adoptee transforms into

an American before our very eyes.
Oct 23

48 HOUR 71: INTO THE FIRE
FILM PROJECT
A Minor Detail
A collection of highlights from the 48 Hour Film Project, South Korea | Korean w/English subtitles
a competition in which filmmakers from over 87 cities 120 minutes | 35mm | 2010
world-wide battle to produce the best film in 48 hours DIRECTOR: John H. Lee
or less. PRODUCER: Jeong Tae-won
TRT: 90 min including filmmaker Q & A afterwards CAST: Cha Seung Won, Kim Seung Woo,
Choi Seung Hyun, Kwon Sang Woo
MON OCT 25, 5:10PM (FREE)

THU OCT 21, 8:00PM
Contains strong violence and war
EMPTY CHAIR
Director: Wilder Herms | 7 min | Video | 2010
A journey through the schizophrenic episodes of a man coping with the This Korean war drama depicts the real life story of 71 untrained
loss of his best friend.
student soldiers forced to defend a base against the invading
PROBE North Korean forces until the Allies arrive. Their youth and
Director: Roman S. Koenig | 6 min | Video | 2010
Memory enhancement on doctor’s orders.
inexperience proves to be more dangerous than the impending
attack from enemy troops, and they struggle to unite under their
WELCOME HOME KURT
Director: Jose Troconis | 8 min | Video | 2010 very young commander, Oh Jang-beom. 71: INTO THE FIRE is
Kurt adjusts to life back home after returning from the Vietnam War. the classic story of boys becoming men, but does it all with the
THE COHIBA backdrop of a violent conflict.
Director: George Yé | 5 min | Video | 2010 The film brings all the heartache, violence, and horror of war to
On his way to interview Fidel Castro in 1963, an AP journalist is recruited
by the CIA.
the screen, but does so through a teenage perspective. It stars
Choi Seung Hyun, better known as the Korean pop star T.O.P.,
SEA OF TREES
Director: Grayson Wolfe | 7 min | Video | 2009 in his first feature film role after two successful television series
A man awakens in a mysterious forest with no recollection of how he runs. The film is shot in a very gritty style, mimicking the reality
got there. of the emotional toll inflicted upon its characters. Explosions,
KUNG PAO MASTER battle scenes, and eye-popping stunt work abound in what is
Director: Sean Dejecacion | 7 min | Video | 2009 sure to be a major hit with the young crowd, action fans, and
The ‘Citizen Kane’ of Kung Fu/Stoner films. history buffs alike. — Brandon Coyle
DOLLARS TO DONUTS
Director: Derek Snyder | 7 min | Video | 2009
The untold story of the worst botched robbery in the history of botched
robberies.
NEVER ANYMORE IN EATING FISH
Director: Wang Di | 7 min | Video | 2009 Screening Sponsors:
An experimental film about a woman and the fish she lost.
EYE OF THE BEHOLDER
Directors: Samantha Goldstein, Calvin Michaels | 8 min | Video | 2010
A portrait photographer is inspired to try something surprising in his
quest to understand women.
A MINOR DETAIL Co-presented by:
Director: Mark Gadia | 8 min | Video | 2010
Rival thieves unknowingly attempt the same heist, sparking a battle to KoreAm Journal
determine who is the best.
Audrey Magazine

ADOPTION SPOTLIGHT
ABOUT
A BRAND NEW LIFE HER BROTHER
France, South Korea | Korean w/English subtitles Japan | Japanese w/English subtitles
92 minutes | 35mm | 2009 126 minutes | 35mm | 2010
DIRECTOR/WRITER: Ounie Lecomte DIRECTOR: Yôji Yamada
PRODUCERS: Laurent Lavolé, Chang-dong Lee and WRITERS: Emiko Hiramatsu . Yôji Yamada
Jun-dong Lee PRODUCERS: Hiroshi Fukazawa, Kenicihi Tamura,
CAST: Kim Sae Ron, Park Do Yeon, Ko Ah-sung, Park Ichirô Yamamoto
Myeong-shin, Oh Man-seok CAST: Ryo Kase, Yû Aoi, Yuriko Ishida
SAT OCT 23, 3:30PM TUE OCT 26, 7:00PM

Contains some language and adult situations
Contains adult situations
It is never revealed exactly why young Jinhee’s father deposits her

at the Catholic orphanage. Like her dad’s face, writer/director 2010 Berlin International Film Festival
Ounie Lecomte purposely conceals Jinhee’s past concentrating A Japanese family living through many historic moments in
more on the dire situation at hand. The child’s first few weeks are Japanese history has one major problem: a crazy uncle. He
spent in deep denial; surely her father is going to come back and remains immature, obnoxious, and a heavy drinker with no
claim her. Gradually she learns how to adjust to her new life by foreseeable future. His forte is finding awkward moments and
letting down her guard, making friends and reluctantly learning brining chaos to family occasions. His sister, despite all of the
some painful life lessons. shame he brings her, shows an understanding and love for her
As prospective parents come to weed through the crop of brother that no one can share — especially the rest of his family
orphans, Jinhee’s friends quickly become little more than fleeting who seemingly carry the shame of being related to him.
acquaintances. The young girl goes from coming to terms with With Kabei: Our Mother (SDAFF ’09), director Yoji Yamada
separation to spending her days praying for it, longing for the displayed a sensitive cinematic eye capturing the life of a family
time when the other children will sing a farewell chorus of “Auld that not many Japanese directors can replicate. With ABOUT
Lang Syne” as a shiny black car with loving parents in the front HER BROTHER, Yamada presents a woman that will stand by her
seat whisks her away to a brand new life. family no matter what, and who understands the true meaning
Inspired by her childhood, Lecomte offers an insider’s view that’s of family and love. — Phil Lorenzo
simultaneously warm, poignant and unflinching. She found a
perfect on-screen counterpart in Kim Sae Ron. Her naturalistic
performance gives the film an added layer of realism as both the
first time filmmaker and her young star never once fall prey to
manipulation or sentimentality. — Scott Marks
Screening sponsors:
Co-presented by:
Buddhist Temple of San Diego
Co-presented by:
Japan Society of San Diego and Tijuana
Association of Korean Adoptees - Southern California

THE ACTRESSES AIR DOLL
South Korea | Korean w/English subtitles Japan | Japanese w/English subtitles

104 minutes | Video | 2009 125 minutes | Video | 2009
DIRECTOR: E J-Yong DIRECTOR: Hirokazu Koreeda
CAST: Ko Hyeon-Jeong, Kim Ok-bin, Choi Ji-Woo, Kim WRITERS: Hirokazu Koreeda, Yoshiie Goda
Min-Hee, Lee Mi-Sook, Yeo-Jeong PRODUCERS: Hirokazu Koreeda, Toshiro Uritani
CAST: Doona Bae, Arata, Itsuji Itao
SAT OCT 23, 8:25PM

SAT OCT 23, 8:50PM
In this mockumentary, which obliterates the line separating WED OCT 27, 8:45PM
fiction from reality, six of Korea’s top actresses are brought Contains nudity and sexual situations
together for a landmark Vogue Magazine photo shoot on
Christmas Eve. Spanning three generations, the actresses are 2009 Cannes Film Festival
the new “it girl” of Korean cinema Kim Ok-Bin (Thirst, SDAFF 2009 Toronto International Film Festival
’09), model-turned-actress Kim Min-Hee (Hellcats, SDAFF 2009 Pusan International Film Festival
’08), top K-drama star Choi Ji-Woo, the back-from-retirement
For director Hirokazu Koreeda (After Life, Nobody Knows), AIR
Ko Hyeon-Jeong, the elegant Lee Mi-Sook and the “queen” of
DOLL signifies a return to the magical realism he does best.
Korean actresses Yoon Yeo-Jeong. As could be expected when
Originally a manga series, the film’s premise can be simplified to
six spotlight-grabbing superstars are trapped in the same room
a doll that comes to life. But in the case of Japanese cinema, even
together, vanity, insecurity, jealousy and yes, drama immediately
that simple of a premise can become a complex philosophical
move to the forefront.
journey in the search for a soul in inanimate objects (as
Co-written by the actresses themselves, this incredibly inventive demonstrated in Japanese films like Ghost in the Shell).
film features these beautiful and talented actresses playing
In AIR DOLL, Nozomi is a sex doll who wakes up one day with
characters based upon caricatures of their public personas.
a heart. One day (and dressed in a maid costume) she leaves
Although the in-jokes will reward fans of Korean dramas and
her master to explore the human world and winds up spending
movies and leave them wondering how much truth lies behind
time in a local video store. She meets one of the store employees
each line, viewers without firsthand knowledge of these actresses
and begins to experience love for the first time. With a child-like
will catch on quickly thanks to the sharp dialogue and convincing
wonder, Nozomi is enjoying her human life and everything seems
characterizations. Once the film moves beyond the entertaining
to be going perfectly until the unexpected happens. With its
cattiness and conflicts, the film explores issues facing Korean
exceptional acting and directing, Koreeda’s latest masterpiece,
women such as the Puritanical public perception of divorcees and
illustrating the parallels between the emptiness of the doll and
the also the immense pressures facing talent in the increasingly
the human world, will likely leave viewers in a trance. — Mye
globalized Korean entertainment industry. Tightly scripted and
Hoang
shot in an ingeniously faux cinema verite style, director E J-Yong
(Dasepo Naughty Girls) has crafted a truly original work of art that
should not be missed. – Gene Huh
Screening sponsors:
Co-presented by: KoreAm Journal Audrey Magazine

EXTREME SERIES
ALIEN VS NINJA
Japan | Japanese w/English subtitles

81 minutes | Video | 2010
DIRECTOR/WRITER: Seiji Chiba
PRODUCERS: Seiji Chiba, Yoshinori Chiba, Akifumi
Sugihara
CAST: Mika Hijii, Ben Hiura, Shuuji Kashiwabara,
Masanori Mimoto
OCTOBER 22 -
NOVEMBER 5
SAT OCT 23, 10:30PM
www.sandiegoitalianfilmfestival.com
Contains strong violence and adult situations
Seiji Chiba takes us back to the sixteenth century where Ninja

clans kill at will. Ninja Yamata and his Iga clan warriors return to
their village from battle when they see a fireball blaze across the
sky, but instead of what would have appeared to be a meteorite
is actually a slimy, bloodthirsty creature from beyond the earth!
The savage, deadly alien kills and feasts on the Iga Ninjas, leaving
few survivors including Yamata and a super female ninja that
swear to avenge the deaths of their brethren. They find that their
weapons don’t work against this creature, but these are ninjas!
They will have tricks up their sleeves for the aliens, now, will the
aliens have some surprises in store for the ninja warriors?
Seiji Chiba’s gory, bloody, and sexy battle vision comes to full life
in this rowdy and unapologetic movie that will keep you laughing
and wondering why isn’t everyone watching this? Get ready for
the most fun time you’ll ever see featuring aliens, ninjas, zombies,
and a leather clad woman who is in one of the most memorable
battle scenes in recent memory. Recommended with Robogeisha.
— Phil Lorenzo
Co-presented by:
Tabe BBQ
Anime Conji

Q&A WITH “THE WONDER HOSPITAL”
DIRECTOR/ANIMATOR BEOMSIK SHIMBE SHIM
Fresh from winning the coveted and realism movies. The strong realities inspire me to make my
Best Student Prize Award from surreal works. But this time, I am especially into Andrey Tarkovsk’s
SIGGRAPH2010, and Best Animation films. In animation, Yuri Norstein and Chris Landreth were good
at the prestigious Los Angeles Film inspirations for me too.
Festival and Seattle Int’l Film Festival,
Beomsik Shimbe Shim pulls back the
curtain to share a little on the making Q: One of the memorable things about your film is its atonal and dissonant
of his amazingly imaginative and music soundtrack. Tell us a little about the music and sound design?
surreal film, “The Wonder Hospital.” Music and sound are a big part of the production process. Even in
Interview by Sam Chen (SDAFF the pre-production stage and when I designed scenes, I selected
Animation Curator) music first that are fitting in themes or rhythm, and worked based
on this. Also at the end, I let my composer and sound designer listen
to the music I chose which inspired them too. Personally I don’t like
Q: “The Wonder Hospital” is deliciously strange and imaginative. Where using music to dramatize and manipulate audience’s feeling. For
did you get the initial idea for this film?
Exposing the oddities and ironies hidden in our mundane lives,
have been the main interest in my works. People see many strange
looks and situations in my films, but most of them were from the
details around my daily life. I collect them like I’m writing a diary
on my sketchbook,
and used them to generate unexpected meanings and feelings. The
main concept of using the mirror reflection in the climax of my film
was from my own life when I was sitting in New York subway one
day, looking at my own distorted reflection on the metal wall of a
train.
Q: Your film features some amazingly fluid animation. Were they hand
animated, or using some sort of physics simulation?
that reason, I used music in background like elevator music. I was
I used cloth and water simulation. I always felt 3D CG visually much more concerned about sound over music this time.
looked too solid and stiff, and too artificially perfect. I think using
physics simulations can often help to soften out this stiffness.
Q: Where are you working now, and how has making this film helped you
at your job?
Q: The atmosphere and vibe of all your films tend to be surreal yet
I’m working on Matt Groening’s “Futurama” animation for a year.
familiar. Tell us who are your main influences and heroes in animation &
It’s animation of course, but extremely different from what I have
filmmaking?
done in terms of looks, themes and the system of production. I
I’ve made animation, but I’m not a big fan of cartoons or video help the show mostly using my technical skills at this time, but it’s
games. I get much more inspirations from documentary films a very good experience because it give me a chance to think about
the balance between what people like and what I like in terms of
making art.
Q: What can you tell us about your next film?

“The Wonder Hospital” was my MFA thesis film at CalArts last
year, and I’ve been working on my next film since I graduated. I
can’t reveal details about the film at this point, but it would be very
different in terms of its theme and look, which combines many live
action shoots with real people instead of rendering only polygons
this time.

THE STATE OF THE ANIMATION UNION
by Sam Chen (SDAFF Animation Curator)
In a year full of 3D stereoscopic and IMAX releases, 2010 has been another gangbuster one for feature animation both
critically and in the box office. A quick visit to BoxOfficeMojo.com showed the top-grossing films of 2010 are dominated
by animation with Pixar’s “Toy Story 3” in first place at an astounding $405M (domestic), followed by DreamWork’s
“Shrek Forever After” and “How To Train Your Dragon” and Universal’s surprise hit “Despicable Me” all at over $200M. If
you counted films with ample visual effects requiring creature and effects animation, then it’s almost entirely the top-10
list which includes “Iron Man 2,” “Eclipse,” and “Alice In Wonderland.” Animation was everywhere in 2010, and don’t even
get me started on 2009’s 800-ton gorilla, otherwise known as “Avatar.”
While box office numbers are important to the health of the industry, the more meaningful and encouraging statistic is how
well these animated films rated critically. A visit to RottenTomatoes.com revealed “Toy Story 3” scoring an unprecedented
99% positive reviews with “How To Train Your Dragon” just behind at 98%. These scores are from a sampling of over 200
national critics, magazines, and newspapers. It might be safe to say that the best mainstream films being made today are
animated!
So who are the talented artists behind these Hollywood juggernauts? While most would agree that Asian Americans are
relatively still a rarity in front of the Hollywood lens, they are actually thriving behind the camera -- especially in bringing
the illusion of life to animated and fantastical characters in Hollywood blockbusters. Don’t believe me? Next time you’re
at your local cineplex watching a feature animation or a visual effects-heavy film, instead of rushing out the theater after
the last frame fades to black, stay awhile and scan the credits. You’d be shocked at just how many Asian last names you’ll
see. It’s all good isn’t it?
Many of these talented Asian American artists and filmmakers working in the professional world of feature animation
today got their start by making relatively humble but no less imaginative animated shorts. Having been the animation
curator for SDAFF for the last 10 years, I’m happy and extremely proud to be presenting this year’s animation showcase
program which we called, “The Illusion Of LIfe.” The lineup this year is chock full of artistry, imagination, creative vision,
and sheer magic. We hope you can plan your festival schedule around this very special program. You’ll surely be catching
a glimpse of the future animation stars of Hollywood.

ANIMATION: THE ILLUSION OF LIFE
How do you coax life out of thin air? Find out in this program dedicated entirely to the Magical Art of Animation. TRT: 83 min.
* Some mature content / * Cast & crew scheduled to attend
SUN OCT 24, 2:25PM WED OCT 27, 7:30PM
TANG
DIRECTOR: Han Ung Lee A snow monkey struggles to stay warm after he
Canada | 2 min. | Video accidentally drains all the water from his pond.
2009 medium: 3d CGI
KIDNAP
A little chicken is late to school, so she thinks up the
DIRECTOR: Sijia Luo perfect excuse to get herself off da hook.
USA | 4 min. | Video
medium: 2d digital
2009
NINJA VS. GUILT

Nobu the Ninja breathes a sai of relief after being
DIRECTOR: David Chai consoled by his pal Pierre, over a cup of coffee and
USA | 4 min. | Video some penetrating advice.
2009 medium: 2d digital
RIVER IN HEAVEN
DIRECTORS: Keiko Lino, A lonely little boy is comforted by his toy bunny during
Yves Dalbiez his time of sadness.
Japan | 3 min. | Video medium: 3d CGI
2010
TOO MUCH OF A STORY

A cautionary tale about the dangers of parents
DIRECTOR: Taelin Oh reading fairy tale stories based on originals that have
USA | 3 min. | Video very different and often sadistic endings.
2010 medium: 2d digital
THE BEAUTY (佳人)

A story about a girl who tries to assassinate the King,
DIRECTOR: Qi Chao Mao animated in the meticulous style of ancient Chinese
China | 4 min. | Video paintings.
2010
medium: 3d CGI
Co-presented by:
Platt College, The Art Institute of California - San Diego

MEI LING
Mei Ling lives alone in her flat. One day, she finds a
DIRECTORS: Francois little octopus in the kitchen sink and decides to adopt
Leroy, Stephanie Lansaque it to avoid boredom. The octopus grows up...
France | 15 min. | Video
medium: 3d CGI
2009
THE WONDER HOSPITAL

In a mysterious hospital, a girl’s desire for superficial
DIRECTOR: Beomsik
beauty leads her to something unimaginable and
Shimbe Shim irreversible.
USA | 12 min. | Video
medium: 3d CGI + puppetry
2010
AMAZONIA
Finding a meal in the Amazon Rainforest is a major
DIRECTOR: Sam Chen
pain in the butt!
USA | 5 min. | Video |
2010 medium: 3d CGI
WHEN THE TIME IS RIPE

Miles is just a nice Jewish pear in a confusing world.
DIRECTOR: Shion Takeuchi
The night before his Bar Mitzvah, he must confront
USA | 6 min. | Video | the truth about himself and his family.
2010
medium: 2d stopmotion + Flash
THE LITTLE DRAGON

Trapped in a box for 35 years, the Dragon Spirit is
DIRECTOR: Bruno Collet
reincarnated in a doll’s body and sets out to discover
Switzerland, France the oversize world outside.
8 min. | Video |
medium: 2d stopmotion + 3d CGI
2009
MOM
A story about a mom who deeply missed her own
DIRECTOR: Wooksang Chang
mother.
Korea | 12 min. | Video
2010 medium: 2d sets + 3d CGI
ODE TO A POST-IT NOTE On a cluttered office desk plastered with Post-it®

Note to do lists, one little Post-it Note escapes on an
DIRECTOR: Jeff Chiba Stearns
incredible journey of self-discovery to find his father.
Canada | 5 min. | Video
2010 medium: 2d stopmotion + live action

PANEL
ASIAN AMERICANS BANDHOBI

IN HOLLYWOOD
TRT: 90 minutes South Korea | Korean w/ English subtitles

DIRECTOR: Dong-il Shin
CAST: Mahbub Alam, Jin-hee Baek, Dong-gyoo Jeong,
SUN OCT 24, 12:15PM Il-hwa Lee
An increasing number of Asian Americans are edging their way
into popular shows and film, from the hit television musical
series, Glee, to highly anticipated films like Scott Pilgrim vs. The THU OCT 21 7:30PM
World and even horror remakes. We get the scoop from celebrities
Contains sexual situations
and industry insiders who share their perspectives about the
changing landscape of Hollywood.
Min-suh is a rebellious Korean teenager who lives with her mother
Scheduled to speak: and her mother’s unemployed boyfriend. As an excuse to get out
of the house, she works various banal and illicit jobs. Karim is a
migrant worker from Bangladesh, one of thousands of foreign
workers living in South Korea and trying to support a family back
home. With his visa about to expire, his family life on the rocks,
and his employers refusing to pay him for the last year of work,
Karim finds himself alone and powerless. Then one day he meets
Min-suh as she pockets his misplaced wallet. In exchange for not
reporting her to the police, Min-suh agrees to help Karim track
Jon M. Chu C.S. Lee down his employers and demand the wages he deserves. What
(director of Step Up 2) (Dexter)
develops is a tender friendship, but time is not on their side.
From director Dong-il Shin, the “Korean Woody Allen”, comes
this unique coming of age story about friendship and social
injustice. While taking a stand on controversial human rights
issues, Shin gives his characters a life of their own, straying away
from didactic rhetoric and immersing the viewer in postmodern
Korean society. Within the loosely knit plot, the camera switches
between the intimate and ironic, capturing heartwarming and
hilarious performances by up and coming teen star Jin-hee
Harry Shum, Jr. Ellen Wong
Baek and social activist/actor, Mahbub Alam. A subversively
(Glee, League of Extraordinary Dancers) (Scott Pilgrim vs. The World)
mainstream indie-flick, BANDHOBI (meaning female friend in
Bengali) is as entertaining as it is provocative. — Jason Low
Aaron Yoo
(Disturbia, Friday the 13th)

BEYOND HUMAN
Pia
AN INTERSECTION OF
This collection of shorts films explores how the
development of superhuman powers and advanced
SIGHTS AND SOUNDS

technologies may challenge our definition of what
constitutes humanity in the future.
TRT: 74 min
SAT OCT 23 10:00PM–1:00AM

FRI OCT 22, 6:35PM MISSION VALLEY MARRIOTT
Contains some violence Outdoor Pavilion
Pia 8757 Rio San Diego Drive, San Diego, CA 92108
Director: Tanuj Chopra | 15 min | Video | 2009
In 2063, an android programmed for manual labor arrives at a A celebration of fresh, indie music, videos, and the art of DJing,
woman’s home displaying traces of human memories. BLOWFISH: INTERSECTION OF SIGHTS AND SOUNDS has
become an annual tradition at the San Diego Asian Film Festival.
Evil Powers Come join the party where you can groove and mingle to the
Director: Fernando Huerto | 4 min | Video | 2010 beats of DJ Icy Ice and emcee Toquon of Soul Elevation.
A super-powered bully rampages until he finally meets his match.
DJ Icy Ice is an original member of
Mister Green the World Famous Beat Junkies and
Director: Greg Pak | 16 min | Video | 2009 has been collaborating with Toquon
In a world where global warming has become reality, a since 2001. Together, Soul Elevation
government official becomes embroiled in a radical conspiracy brings a style influenced by the
to save the planet. days of when hip hop was pure and
On Time uncut, embracing the spirit of Run DMC, Big Daddy Kane, and
Director: Ted Chung | 5 min | Video | 2008 KRS 1 all the way to the likes of Gangstarr, De La Soul and the
A traveling salesman peddles a glimpse into the future. Goodie Mob.
Junko’s Shamisen
Director: Sol Friedman | 10 min | Video | 2009
A young peasant girl seeks to avenge her grandfather’s death.
Heal Blowfish Sponsored by:
Director: Mian Adnan Ahmad | 24 min | Video | 2009
Amidst the conflict in Afghanistan and Pakistan, a child discovers
he has a magical gift that can help people.
Filmmakers scheduled to attend

Proud Sponsor of the 11th Annual
San Diego
Asian Film Festival
THE 11TH ANNUAL SAN DIEGO ASIAN FILM FESTIVAL | 42 © 2010 Verizon Wireless.

BODYGUARDS AND
ASSASSINS
(SHI YUE WEI CHENG)
CAFÉ SEOUL
China / Hong Kong Japan, South Korea

Mandarin and Cantonese w/English subtitles Korean and Japanese w/English subtitles
139 minutes | 35mm | 2009 94 minutes | Video | 2009
DIRECTOR: Teddy Chan DIRECTOR: Masaharu Take
WRITERS: Chun Tin Nam, Guo Junli, Wu Bing, James Yuen CAST: Saito Takumi, Kim Jeong-Hoon, Choi Sung-min,
PRODUCERS: Peter Chan, Huang Jianxin Kim Dong-Wook
CAST: Donnie Yen, Leon Lai, Xueqi Wang, Tony Leung Ka
Fai, Nicholas Tse, Jun Hu Eric Tsang and Simon Yam
WED OCT 27, 7:15PM
SAT OCT 23, 8:00PM THU OCT 28, 5:10PM
WED OCT 27, 9:20PM
Contains strong violence and language Jun (Takumi Saito) is a Japanese freelance reporter who takes a
long-term trip to South Korea so that he can write an in-depth
With a cast that includes action heavyweights Donnie Yen, Tony newspaper article about Korean dessert shops. By chance,
Leung Ka Fai, and Leon Lai it’s unlikely that action junkies will go he discovers Morandang, a delightful traditional bakery in
home hungry. Nor will those who enjoy a solid political thriller. downtown Seoul specializing in Korean rice cakes (dduk).
Director Teddy Chan initially reigns in the thunder by wisely Morandang immediately catches Jun’s fancy because it stirs up
spending the opening hour of his 139-minute fictionalized epic childhood memories of his own upbringing in Japan. He soon
establishing character and meticulously placing the action in makes Morandang the subject of his article and befriends the
historical context before letting loose with a crazed third act real store operator Sang-Woo (Choi Sung-Min), the oldest of three
time chase scene that doesn’t want to let up. sons and the only one still working for the family business.
Unfortunately, things are thrown into chaos when neighborhood
It’s been five years since the 1901 political assassination of Yang
gangsters disable Sang-Woo’s hands in an attempt to take over
Qu-yun, the first in Hong Kong’s history. Dr. Sun Yat-sen (Hanyu
Morandang through illicit means. However, Jun resolves to save
Zhang), the man destined to become The Father of Modern
the shop by brining Sang-Woo’s younger brother Sang-Hyuk, a
China, leaves Tokyo on a hazardous journey to meet with United
former rock star, back to the family business.
League delegates from Hong Kong’s thirteen provinces. We
count down the days before Dr. Sun’s arrival starts the wheels of Director Masaharu Take has crafted a sweet and heartwarming
progress moving in order to unite the various camps in the name tale without crossing over into melodramatic territory, garnering
of revolution. nuanced performances from the talented cast of actors, especially
Japanese newcomer Takumi Saito and Korean pop star Kim
Each of the film’s stars are given their moment in the spotlight
Dong-Wook. Not just a “food” movie, this highly entertaining
as businessman Li Yue-tang (Xueqi Wang in the film’s best
joint Japanese-Korean production explores the challenges of
performance) enlists his own ragtag band of “Dirty Dozen”
holding on to tradition and family in a rapidly-changing Korea. A
revolutionaries to aid the cause. As great as the action is, the
film made with a ton of care, CAFÉ SEOUL is sure to be a mouth-
detailed production design, particularly the attention paid to
watering delicacy for all audiences. — Gene Huh
period recreation, is as dazzling as any kick, explosion or spray
of bullets the film has to offer. — Scott Marks
Screening Sponsors: Co-presented by:

Dr. Robert and Mao Shillman KoreAm Journal
Lew Family Foundation Audrey Magazine


CAST ME IF YOU CAN CINEMA BENTO
Frog in the Well
Japan | Japanese w/English subtitles A collection of films from the land of the rising sun.
97 minutes | Video | 2010 TRT: 87 min
DIRECTOR: Atsushi Ogata
WRITERS: Atsushi Ogata, Akane Shiratori
PRODUCERS: Atsushi Ogata, Eric Nyari, Eriko Miyagawa FRI OCT 21, 7:15PM
CAST: Toru Masuoka, Masahiko Tsugawa, Hiromi
WED OCT 27, 4:00PM (FREE)
Nagasaku
FROG IN THE WELL
SUN OCT 24, 4:10 PM Director: Ken Ochiai | 15 min | Video | 2010
A reclusive young tailor reluctantly departs on a solitary trip
TUE OCT 26, 5:25PM across Japan.
DE JUGUETES (MEXICAN TOY STORY)
West Coast Premiere
Director: Alba Mora-Roca | 9 min | Video | 2010
Stuck on the B-list, Hiroshi (Toru Masuoka) is an actor in Japan, Japanese architect displays his vast collection of toys residing in
who always plays supporting roles, and lives in the shadow of his Mexico City.
famous playwright father (Masahiko Tsugawa). Often mistaken
WITNESS TO HIROSHIMA
for someone else — a sales clerk, a gas station attendant, a
Director: Kathy Sloane | 16 min | Video | 2008
policeman and even a kidnapper, Hiroshi is a good actor that
Atomic bomb survivor recounts his ordeal through water color
few remember.
paintings.
When the plum acting role of Hiroshi’s dreams finally seems
A NEW HAPPINESS
within reach, the offer is threatened after he is again mistaken
Director: Sumiko Urquhart | 8 min | Video | 2010
for someone else. This time, it’s another man having an affair
Cancer patient learns to cope with disease through diet and
with the wife of an MP.
spirituality.
But one day, his luck changes. He meets his muse, aspiring
OUT OF INFAMY
actress Aya (Hiromi Nagasaku). Jaded, Hiroshi questions her
Director: Nancy Kapitanoff and Sharon Yamato
motivations, while falling for her at the same time, but as usual,
18 min | Video | 2010
he turns into his own worst enemy. A well-paced romantic
Famous fashion designer becomes important activist in her later
comedy, CAST ME IF YOU CAN is the feature film debut for
years.
director Atsushi Ogata, who also wrote the screenplay. In this
charming take on an actor’s bumpy life, Hiromi decides to chase JITENSHA (BICYCLE)
the leading role and his budding love interest, and ultimately Director: Dean Yamada | 21 min | Video | 2009
learns to play the leading role in his own life. — Michael Chen A despondent young man’s unique quest to recover his
dismantled bicycle.
Filmmakers attending Oct 21 screening.
Free screening made possible by:
JOHN S. YI
Co-presented by:
Co-presented by:
San Diego Japanese American Citizens League
San Diego Japanese American Citizens League
THE 11TH ANNUAL SAN DIEGO ASIAN FILM FESTIVAL | 44 University of San Diego Center for Inclusion and Diversity

Cox is proud to support
the San Diego
Asian Film Festival
619-269-2000 619-686-1900 619-686-1900

coxbusiness.com coxmedia.com 4sd.com
619-262-1122
760-599-6060
cox.com
©2009 Cox Communications, Inc. All rights reserved.

CITY OF CLASH
LIFE AND DEATH (BAY RONG)
China | Mandarin w/English subtitles Vietnam | Vietnamese w/English subtitles

DIRECTOR/WRITER: Chuan Lu DIRECTOR: Le Thanh Son
PRODUCERS: Qin Hong, Han Sanping, Zou Li, WRITER: Johnny Nguyen
John Chon, Andy Zhang PRODUCER: Jimmy Pham
CAST: Ye Liu, Yuanyuan Gao, Hideo Nakaizumi CAST: Hieu Hien, Ngo Thanh Van, Johnny Nguyen,
Lam Minh Thang
SUN OCT 24, 2:00PM

Contains strong war violence, sexual situations and nudity FRI OCT 22, 9:30PM
MON OCT 25, 9:30PM
In December 1937, the Japanese Army occupied the former Chinese
capital and commenced the horribly violent period known as the Contains violence and sexual situations
Rape of Nanking. Acclaimed director Chuan Lu (Kekexili: Mountain
Patrol) has successfully brought to the big screen China’s first big In this fast-paced martial arts crime thriller, Trinh is a seductive
budget film addressing this seminal event in Chinese history. CITY and dangerous thief who must pull off one final heist in order
OF LIFE AND DEATH is unflinching and at times extremely difficult to earn back her kidnapped daughter from crime lord Hac Long
to endure. Beginning where Nanking has fallen to the Japanese, the (Hoang Phuc). But not only does she have to deal with the
first 30 minutes of the film is comprised of battle scenes and very obstacles of attacking gangsters, explosions, and car chases, she
little dialogue. Lu simply throws viewers into the middle of the fray, is also forced to work with a brand new crew and as they say,
showing buildings already destroyed and corpses littering the city. there is no honor amongst thieves.
In scenes that are brutal and emotionally draining, he depicts the CLASH is a sexy and stylish action film that features an ensemble
six-week period of Japanese occupation where soldiers murdered
cast anchored by martial arts superstar Johnny Nguyen, who also
and raped with impunity.
penned the screenplay. The sequences flow quickly with a pace
Stunningly documenting humanity at its worst, Lu also shows that mimics the multiple fight scenes. What sets CLASH apart
the hope that is born in such hell from the sacrifices of the few from its counterparts in the martial arts genre is the unique
who saved the lives of so many. Visceral and harrowing, the film mixture of vovinam, tae kwon do, and lien feng kwon along with
surprisingly never caricatures the Japanese or the Germans. One its fast-motion action sequences. The film has the look and feel
Nazi German businessman, in fact, creates a Safety Zone for the of a major Hollywood action flick, but with individual flair of the
Chinese refugees. And much of the narrative is told from the quiet South Pacific. — Brandon Coyle
and romantic perspective of a Japanese soldier.
Gorgeously shot in stark black and white film, CITY OF LIFE AND
DEATH is painfully essential viewing that cannot be overlooked —
simultaneously for its horror and its exquisite beauty. — Mye Hoang
Screening sponsors:
Association for Preserving Historical Accuracy of Foreign
Invasions in China
American Chinese Culture and
Education Foundation
San Diego Chinese American Association
Co-presented by: San Diego Chinese Historical Museum

ECHOES OF THE
COLIN HEARTS KAY RAINBOW (SUI YUET SAN TAU)
USA | English China | Cantonese, Mandarin, Shanghainese and French

90 minutes | Video | 2010 w/English subtitles
DIRECTOR/WRITER: Sebastian Ho Conley 120 minutes | 35mm | 2010
PRODUCERS: Benjamin Cheng Conley, Sebastian Ho DIRECTOR/WRITER: Alex Law
Conley, Nitin Madan PRODUCER: Mabel Cheung
CAST: Noah Starr, Emily Chang, Mellini Kantayya, CAST: Sandra Ng Kwan Yue, Simon Yam,
Abraham De Funes Lawrence Ah Mon, Evelyn Choi and Buzz Chung
FRI OCT 22, 9:15PM

SUN OCT 24, 4:35PM
MON OCT 25, 9:40PM
WED OCT 27, 6:30PM
Contains some adult language and situations
2010 Best Actor (Simon Yam) Hong Kong Film Awards
West Coast Premiere
2010 Brooklyn International Film Festival With The Fabulous Echoes’ “Dancing on the Moon” backing
him up, our seven-year-old narrator Big Ears (the adorable Buzz
Emmy-winning director Sebastian Ho Conley makes his feature
Chung) sticks a turtle in his pocket and a fishbowl on head, flees
debut with this story about a Brooklyn (specifically Park Slope)
the pet store and proceeds to “fly” through the streets of Hong
cartoonist Colin Jensen who has just broken up with his girlfriend
Kong’s Western District.
Kay, a successful host of the food blog “Kay’s Kitchen.” Colin
illustrates (quite literally) a journey to recall what went awry in As these radiant opening images indicate, there’s more to Alex
their 3-year relationship. Colin’s drawings are whimsical and Law’s autobiographical ECHOES OF THE RAINBOW than just
light and turn into animated backgrounds while mixing with the your standard wistful paean to childhood. The rascally Big Ears
live action characters. lives with his parents (Sandra Ng Kwan Yue and Simon Yam) and
star student brother above the struggling family cobbler shop.
Anyone who has been in a long-term relationship will relate to
Beautifully designed with a painstaking eye for detail, Law and his
Colin and Kay’s trials and tribulations. While Colin is full of
crew skillfully reconstruct the director’s upbringing. What makes
imaginative energy and fantasies of their future together, Kay
this different is Law’s ability to balance emotion and nostalgia
seeks stability and a partner she can bring home to mom and
without encroaching on sentimentality or maudlinness.
dad. Their relationship is one all too often seen and depicted,
but Conley has added cultural issues to the story as Kay has been Winner of the Crystal Bear for Best Film by the Generation Kplus
raised in a traditional Chinese family where love equals duty and Children’s Jury of the Generations competition at the Berlin
sacrifice. Film Festival, ECHOES OF THE RAINBOW is destined to be a
frontrunner for this year’s audience favorite. — Scott Marks
Shot entirely in Brooklyn (by Sebastian’s brother Benjamin) and
with a soundtrack that includes up and coming Brooklyn bands, Screening Sponsors:
COLIN HEARTS KAY is as much a love letter to New York’s
Dr. Robert and Mao Shillman
hippest borough as a love story that reflects today’s times. Shot
on a shoestring budget, the Conley Brothers’ collaboration is full Lew Family Foundation
of laughs as well as heart. — Mye Hoang
Co-presented by:
Cast and crew scheduled to attend Oct 22 screening.
The L. Robert Payne School of Hospitality & Tourism
Management at SDSU
Co-presented by: San Diego Chinese Women’s Association

EMPIRE OF SILVER EMPIRE STATE
OF MIND
Hirosaki Players
China, Taiwan | Mandarin w/English subtitles Life in the Big Apple comes alive through these stories
113 minutes | 35mm | 2009 that take place in and around New York
DIRECTOR: Christina Yao TRT: 90 min
WRITERS: Christina Yao, Cheng Yi
PRODUCERS: Peggy Chiao, Congxi Li, Jeremy Thomas,
Christina Yao
SAT OCT 23, 3:55PM
CAST: Aaron Kwok, Tielin Zhang, Hao Lei, Jennifer Tilly
THU OCT 28, 5:30PM
Contains some language and violence
FRI OCT 22, 7:20PM
TUE OCT 26, 8:55PM EMPIRE CORNER
Director: J.P. Chan | 12 min | Video | 2009
Contains some violence and sexual situations
A woman travels across New York City — and between two worlds — in
search for the man she never got a chance to know.
2009 Berlin International Film Festival
2010 San Francisco International Film Festival THE BRIDGE
Director: Phillipp Wolter | 15 min | Video | 2010
In the China of 1899, war had depleted the Qing Dynasty and the What if the only way home on the Brooklyn Bridge...is to choose a
rampant use of Opium had robbed the people of its health and different path.
pride. Among all of this turmoil was the existence of the “Wall
WORKS OF ART
Street of China”; the northern province of Shanxi and home to
Director: Andrew Pang | 19 min | Video | 2010
a guild of bankers. These bankers controlled all of the funds in A struggling actor in New York, Art Hahn, is offered an unusual role to
China and other nations such as Mongolia, Japan, and Russia. replace his friend on a blind date.
Despite this large amount of control over finances, there was
HIROSAKI PLAYERS
little control over other matters.
Director: Jeff Sousa | 19 min | Video | 2009
In this lush and beautiful epic film, Boxer Rebels and family On a tense, sold-out opening night in New York City, a playwright
disputes lead to the erosion of the Kang banking empire, where a struggles with his father, a legendary Japanese actor, over control of the
disinterested and hedonistic son must lead the family bank into play and their relationship.
the future. Love triangles, conflicts over heredity of the banking THE GREY COAT
empire, and the personal journey of a man in need of an identity Director: Bob Giraldi | 12 min | Video | 2009
fill EMPIRE OF SILVER with sexy, unique, and captivating images A hard-working immigrant Korean family is extorted by corrupt New
that should not be missed. — Phil Lorenzo York detectives.
WU IS DEAD
Filmmaker Christine Yao scheduled to attend Oct 22 screening.
Director: Richard Wong | 13 min | Video | 2010
As a woman in mid-town Manhattan searches for the man she never got
Screening Sponsors: a chance to know, another concerned woman, the man’s employer, seeks
Dr. Robert and Mao Shillman answers the only way she knows how.
Lew Family Foundation

Filmmakers and crew scheduled to attend Oct 23 screening.
Co-presented by:
San Diego House of China Co-presented by:
San Diego Chinese Historical Museum Drinking Liberally in Carlsbad

EYE FOR AN EYE FINDING FACE
Sunday Punch
Revenge is sweet in this collection of short films. Cambodia/USA

TRT: 86 min English and Cambodian w/English subtitles
DIRECTOR: Skye Fitzgerald
SAT OCT 23, 6:40PM WRITER: Patti Duncan
Contains strong language, violence and sexual situations PRODUCERS: Patti Duncan, Skye Fitzgerald
THE DEBT
Director: Andrew Oh | 17 min | Video | USA
Two old friends, a cop and ex-con, meet up for drinks and discuss
SUN OCT 24, 2:50PM
how their lives ended up so differently. Contains adult situations
CUT SHORT
Director: Jason Tobin | 7 min | Video | Hong Kong There is a gender-based crime that happens all over the world that
A sleazy reporter has the tables turned on him when an irate no one really knows about. Acid-attacks have become a growing
celebrity decides to cut short their interview. crime in most third world countries and even here in the United
States. Along with rape, dirty wars, and genital mutilation, acid
CLAP, CLAP
attacks have become yet another way that women’s human
Director: Tanuj Chopra | 10 min | Video | USA
rights are violated. FINDING FACE tells the story of one victim of
A beautiful young woman takes a chance to escape from a life
this abominable crime.
of gun running.
The film details the controversial case of Tat Marina, who was
ACTUALLY, I AM A SUPERMAN
attacked with acid in Cambodia in 1999. At 16, Marina was a
Director: Song Kwong-ho | 25 min | Video | South Korea
rising star in Phnom Penh’s karaoke music scene. She was coerced
Two teenage outcasts start an unlikely friendship based on
into an abusive relationship with Cambodia’s Undersecretary
similar abnormal powers.
of State, and subsequently doused with a liter of nitric acid—
BLACK COFFEE allegedly by his wife—that disfigured her face. A decade later,
Director: Bao Tran | 9 min | Video | USA despite the fact that there were multiple witnesses to the crime,
Neo-noir thriller about an elected representative in a love no charges have ever been filed in the case.
triangle.
Director Skye Fitzgerald and writer Patti Duncan bring to the
SUNDAY PUNCH screen what World Pulse Magazine calls a “startling portrait
Director: Dennis Hauck | 18 min | 35mm | USA
forever altered by an inhuman crime. While difficult to witness,
A sexy ring girl cons her way into a better life.
this film’s harrowing story is deeply important to acknowledge.”
This powerful film that just begins the discussion of gender
Filmmakers, cast and crew scheduled to attend. violence for most, the staying power of this film may well inspire
those who see it to get involved and become more aware of this
truly horrifying crime. — Phil Lorenzo
Filmmaker Skye Fitzgerald scheduled to attend.

FOOL FOR LOVE GOEMON
(DE MAI TINH)
Vietnam | Vietnamese w/ English subtitles Japan | Japanese w/English subtitles

DIRECTOR: Charlie Nguyen DIRECTOR: Kazuaki Kiriya
WRITERS: Charlie Nguyen, Vincent Ngo PRODUCERS: Kazuaki Kiriya, Takashige Ichise
PRODUCERS: Dustin Tri Nguyen, Irene Trinh CAST: Yosuke Eguchi, Takao Osawa, Ryoko Hirosue,
CAST: Dustin Tri Nguyen, Kathy Uyen, Thai Hoa Eiji Okuda, Jun Kaname, Gori, Masato Ibu
SAT OCT 23, 6:40PM

SUN OCT 24, 6:40PM
MON OCT 25, 9:20PM
Contains violence and adult situations
FOOL FOR LOVE follows the travails of an earnest and friendly
bathroom clerk, Dung (Dustin Nguyen), who works at a five-star In 1582 Japan, expert thief Goemon (Yosuke Eguchi) makes a
hotel. One day he meets a beautiful lounge singer, Mai (Kathy name for himself by stealing from the rich and distributing his
Uyen) whose wealthy boyfriend just left her. Dung falls instantly take to the less fortunate. However, one day Gomeon steals
in love. Dung is convinced that Mai is in love with him and quits a seemingly insignificant little box that draws the attention of
his job to pursue her, only to find out she is already being chased warlord Toyotomi Hideyoshi (Eiji Okuda), who has risen to
by a wealthy real estate tycoon whose willingness to employ her power by assassinating his former master Oda Nobunaga.
depends on her willingness to date him. Desperate to recover the stolen box, Hideyoshi sends a variety
With very little money to his name, Dung knows he must do of henchmen after Goemon, including Ishida (Kaname Jun),
something to help finance his pursuit of love. That is how he the famous Hattori Hanzo (Terajima Susumu) and Goemon’s
meets a very rich (and very gay) businessman named Hoi (Thai former childhood friend and fellow ninja Saizo (Osawa Takao).
Hoa), willing to pay for male companionship. As Goemon dispatches his foes with breathtaking efficiency, it
soon becomes apparent that Goemon is not just an ordinary
Through it all, Dung and Mai are both tested as they face the bandit and that the box contains a secret devastating enough to
same predicament of choosing between true love and financial determine the fate of a nation.
security.
With a story based upon legendary accounts of Goemon
Directed by Charlie Nguyen, best known for his explosive action Ishikawa’s exploits during the late 1500’s, GOEMON is more
films including The Rebel (SDAFF 08), FOOL FOR LOVE was his than just a Robin Hood story set within a Japanese historical and
first foray into the romantic comedy genre and proved to be a political context. It is a dazzling technical masterpiece directed
commercial success as Vietnam’s highest grossing film of the by visionary filmmaker Kazuaki Kiriya (Casshern) and produced
year. FOOL FOR LOVE gets its charm from is strong, natural by the legendary Takashige Ichise (The Ring). Deftly mixing live
cast, breathtaking scenery and its deft score composed by action with stunning computer effects, GOEMON is a visual feast
Nguyen himself. that will dazzle with its artistic beauty and technical mastery.
Featuring many spectacular set pieces and incredible actions
sequences that mix ancient stylings with a slightly futuristic feel,
the film delivers the goods on many different levels. It is definitely
a film that fans of movies such 300 and Sin City will not want to
miss. — Gene Huh

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GOOD MORNING HE(ART)
PRESIDENT OF THE MATTER
Unreserved
South Korea | Korean w/English subtitles Love for the Arts comes with a variety of expressions.
131 minutes | Video | 2009 TRT: 93 min
DIRECTOR/WRITER: Jin Jang
CAST: Soon-jae Lee, Dong-gun Jang, Doo Shim Goh,
Ha-ryong Lim
SUN OCT 24, 4:45PM
Contains some adult language
FRI OCT 22, 4:00PM (FREE)

BOMBAY TO BROOKLYN
Director: Carole Ryavec | 21 min | Video | 2010
2009 Pusan International Film Festival Artist Preet Srivastava displays her extraordinary talents with
This South Korean dramedy is a story of three Korean presidents improvisational painting.
told in three different sections. In the humorous first act, aging LYRICAL EMPIRE: HIP HOP IN METRO MANILA
incumbent Kim Jung-ho wins the lottery mere months before Director: Mark Villegas | 20 min | Video | 2010
his term is up, and must decide if and how he can claim his Filipino Hip Hop artists persevere with their passion in spite of an
jackpot without arousing suspicion. The second vignette profiles unbelieving public.
young Cha Ji-wook, who is dubbed “the Korean JFK” and takes UNRESERVED: THE WORK OF LOUIE GONG
a radical approach to international politics as he tries to defuse Director: Tracy Rector | 14 min | Video | 2010
a potential conflict with the United States, Japan, and North Pacific Northwest artist imprints his ethnic identity on popular Vanns
Korea. In the final section of the film, female president Han skate shoes.
Kyuong-ja must maintain her administrative composure in the YB BOX
midst of a collapsing marriage. Director: Feng Liu | 28 min | Video | 2008
GOOD MORNING PRESIDENT is not just a story of Korean A tight knit group of beatbox artists come from a remote border town
in China.
politics and government, but one that takes a deep look at the
human issues affecting its diplomatic leaders. Its subtle humor DE JUGUETES (MEXICAN TOY STORY)
balances perfectly with the serious tones in the forefront, and Director: Alba Mora-Roca | 9 min | Video | 2010
the film uses a unique narrative structure to tell three completely Japanese architect displays his vast collection of toys residing in
different stories which occasionally weave together to form a Mexico City.
larger picture of Korean life, love, and politics. It premiered as
the Opening Night Film at the Pusan International Film Festival Filmmakers expected to attend.
in 2009 and quickly became the #1 film at the Korean box office
shortly thereafter. — Brandon Coyle
Screening sponsors:
Free screening made possible by: Co-presented by:
JOHN S. YI SDSU College of Professional Studies and Fine Arts

Art San Diego
Co-presented by: KoreAm Journal Audrey Magazine

HIROSHIMA NAGASAKI
DOWNLOAD
THE HOUSE OF SUH
Mexico | English and Japanese w/English subtitles USA | English and Korean w/English subtitles
DIRECTOR: Shinpei Takeda DIRECTOR: Iris K. Shim
PRODUCERS: Shinpei Takeda, Eiji Wakamatsu PRODUCERS: Iris Shim, Gerry Kim
SAT OCT 23, 4:10PM

WED OCT 27, 5:20PM
TUE OCT 26, 7:15PM
Contains strong language and violence
West Coast Premiere
Upon the end of World War II, people that survived the atomic West Coast Premiere
bombs in Hiroshima and Nagasaki immigrated to the US. Co- On September 25, 1993, Catherine Suh’s fiancee Robert
existing with the physical trauma of radiation and psychological O’Dubaine is shot twice and murdered in his garage by her
scar of the destruction, the survivors have lived quietly in a brother Andrew Suh. The identity of the murderer comes as
country that was once considered their “state’s enemy.” a shock to everyone who knew of Andrew: loyal, respectful,
64 years later, 2 former high school friends began their journey studious, the “good son.” In this documentary detailing the Suh
to seek ‘Hiroshima’ and ‘Nagasaki’ deeply ingrained in the household’s tragic collapse, obligation and loyalty are the values
collective psyche of modern Japan. called into question. Eloquently narrated by Andrew himself,
THE HOUSE OF SUH examines the complex dynamics of the Suh
How does this memory stay alive for the coming generation
family and the values embraced and rejected by Andrew and his
and how are they truly understood? As the two drove down the
sister Catherine, which culminated in the planning and execution
American west coast visiting 18 survivors as well as a holocaust
of a crime that shocked the Korean American community.
survivor, they would hear the most intimate moments of their lives
and come to realize the cruel nature of psychological trauma. Based on her first documentary short, Of Kin and Kind (2007),
With the vast landscape of American west in their background, director Iris Shim successfully weaves multiple mediums
the two explores the scars left by the atomic bombs and reflect including photographs, newspaper clippings, and home videos
on their Japanese identities. to reconstruct the story of a family torn apart and sheds new light
on the circumstances surrounding the murder. Shim’s subject
HIROSHIMA NAGASAKI DOWNLOAD marks the first feature
and narrator, Andrew Suh, can be unexpectedly charismatic and
film by Shinpei Takeda, a director based in Mexico who has
even irreproachable at times, asking the question: Am I wrong?
followed the atomic bomb survivors in both North and South
Completely unjustified?
Americas for the last 5 years.
In this captivating and gripping documentary, Shim leaves
Filmmaker Shinpei Takeda scheduled to attend. Andrew’s final question unanswered and ultimately challenges
us to wonder, “what would I do?” — Jimmy Lee
Filmmakers Iris Shim and Gerry Kim scheduled to attend

Oct 23 screening.
Co-presented by: Co-presented by:

San Diego Latino Film Festival Korean American Bar Association of San Diego

IF I KNEW
ADOPTION SPOTLIGHT
WHAT YOU SAID IN THE MATTER OF

(DINIG SANA KITA) CHA JUNG HEE
Philippines USA | English and Korean w/ English subtitles

Tagalog and sign language w/ English subtitles 57 minutes | Video | 2010
99 minutes | Video | 2009 DIRECTOR/WRITER: Deann Borshay Liem
DIRECTOR/WRITER/PRODUCER: Mike Sandejas PRODUCERS: Deann Borshay Liem, Charlotte Lagarde
CAST: Zoe Sandejas, Romality Mallari, Robert Sena,
Lorenzo Mara, Mica Torre
FRI OCT 22, 7:30PM
FRI OCT 22, 5:30PM

Her passport said she was Cha Jung Hee. She knew she was not.
MON OCT 25, 7:40PM
So began a 40-year deception for a Korean adoptee who came to
the U.S. in 1966. Told to keep her true identity a secret from her
Nina (Zoe Sandejas) is a rebellious teen who sings in a rock new American family, this eight-year-old girl quickly forgot she
band. Moody, aloof and prone to fights, she constantly gets was ever anyone else. But why had her identity been switched?
into trouble, which only serves to anger her commandeering And who was the real Cha Jung Hee?
father even more. As a way for her to learn how to get along with IN THE MATTER OF CHA JUNG HEE is the search to find the
others, she is sent off to a camp for the deaf. answers. It follows acclaimed filmmaker Deann Borshay Liem
At camp, she meets the affable Kiko (Romalito Mallari), a as she returns to her native Korea to find her “double,” the
vivacious young man who loves to dance despite being hearing mysterious girl whose place she took in America. Traversing
impaired. Though awkward at first, the two slowly strike up the landscapes of memory, amnesia and identity, while also
a friendship through the unlikely medium of music. Their uncovering layers of deception in her adoption, this moving and
relationship grows deeper even as Nina secretly destroys part of provocative film probes the ethics of international adoptions
herself and Kiko, an orphan, desperately tries to find his birth and reveals the cost of living a lie. Part mystery, part personal
mother. odyssey, it raises fundamental questions about who we are…and
who we could be but for the hands of fate.
Ultimately, IF I KNEW WHAT YOU SAID is about the universal
need to be loved and understood. With genuine performances
by deaf actors and deaf dancers (including lead Romalito Mallari Filmmaker Deann Borshay Liem scheduled to attend.
who won Best Actor by the Philippine Movie Press Club), IF I
KNEW WHAT YOU SAID also tackles some of the issues that
plague the hearing-impaired community and sheds some light on
society’s misconceptions about them. — Lee Ann Kim
Screening dedicated in memory of Joseph Balan. Screening sponsor:
Co-presented by:
Miramar College Diversity/International Education Committee
BlogTV Family Co-presented by:
Culture Shock Dance Studio Association of Korean Adoptees - Southern California

INTERNATIONAL INTERPRETATIONS:
SO YOU REALLY WANT
DEPARTURES TO MAKE FILMS?
Daughters
A cornucopia of life perspectives from around the world. TRT: 90 min

TRT: 109 min
THU OCT 21, 4:00PM (FREE) SUN OCT 24, 2:10PM (FREE)
SAT OCT 23, 1:00PM
Contains violence and sexual situations What happens when filmmakers around the world are given one
script with just four lines? The result is a potpourri of uniquely
WAHID’S MOBILE BOOKSTORE different stories through INTERPRETATIONS, a short film
Director: Anjoo Khosla | 10 min | Video | USA initiative to encourage aspiring filmmakers to develop their own
Documentary look at the life of a young boy who sells counterfeit original and unique voice.
books in the streets of Mumbai. Presented by director Justin Lin (Better Luck Tomorrow, Fast & Furious)
DAUGHTERS and the dynamic folks of YouOffendMeYouOffendMyFamily.com,
Director: Chloé Zhao | 10 min | Video | USA the San Diego Asian Film Festival is honored to host a panel
Forced into an arranged marriage, a 14-year-old girl attempts to and screening of the winners and short film finalists from the
free herself. INTERPRETATIONS Film Initiative.
BORN SWEET Join the YOMYOMF gang and star-studded crew as they celebrate
Director: Cynthia Wade | 28 min | Video | Cambodia our community of filmmakers and discuss the state of Asian
Documentary about a 15 year old who wants to be a karaoke American cinema.
star, but is set back by arsenic poisoning. Scheduled to attend:
SHADOW MAN
Director: Nadine Truong | 25 min | Video | USA
A Vietnamese man leaves his wife and unborn child to fight for
freedom.
THE EARRINGS
Director: Nargiza Mamatkulova | 15 min | Video | Kyrgyzstan
A simple story of a woman who wants a young village girl to
marry her son.
Director Justin Lin
CELESTIAL AVENUE
Director: Cameron Cairns, Colin Cairns
21 min | Video | Australia
A young Australian girl falls in love with a Chinese country boy
who works in a restaurant, with a slight twist.
Filmmakers scheduled to attend.

Danny Pudi Roger Fan
JOHN S. YI (NBC’s Community) (Better Luck Tomorrow,
Ping Pong Playa)

THE RISE OF
IP MAN 2 DONNIE YEN
Hong Kong | Cantonese w/English subtitles Legend of

the Fist: T
109 minutes | 35mm | 2010 he Return
of Chen Z
hen
DIRECTOR: Wilson Yip Thanks to the success of recent
PRODUCER: Raymond Wong films such as the blockbuster Ip Man (SDAFF
CAST: Donnie Yen, Sammo Hung, Simon Yam, Lynn Hung, ’09) and SPL: Sha Po Lang (2005), Donnie Yen has succeeded
Huang Xiaoming, Fan Siu-Wong luminaries Jet Li and Jackie Chan, catapulting into superstardom
as one of the top martial arts action stars in the world.
Born in Guangdong, China, Yen spent his teenage years
SUN OCT 24, 7:00PM studying martial arts and hanging out on the streets of Boston,
WED OCT 27, 7:00PM Massachusetts. To keep him out of trouble, his parents sent him
to Beijing to train for two years with the Beijing Wushu Team. On
Contains strong violence
his return trip home, Yen stopped over in Hong Kong and met
Based on the life of Ip Man, a grandmaster in the Wing Chun famed fight choreographer Yuen Woo-ping (The Matrix), who later
martial art, IP MAN 2 follows Master Ip (Donnie Yen) as he settles gave Yen his start in the world of film as a stuntman. As an actor,
into life in Hong Kong under British colonial rule. Master Ip and Yen’s big break came opposite Jet Li in 1992 on the film Once Upon
his family have moved to Hong Kong after escaping poverty and a Time in China II and in the lead role on Yuen’s Iron Monkey. Yen
oppression in a Japanese-occupied China. To earn a living in his would again team up with Li in 2002 on Zhang Yimou’s Academy
new city and propagate the art of Wing Chun, Ip Man decides to Award nominated film Hero. He later established himself as a
open up his own martial arts academy. He soon attracts a small filmmaker, directing films such as Legend of the Wolf and working
group of students as word gets out about Master Ip’s martial arts as a fight choreographer (and actor) in Hollywood films such as
prowess. Unfortunately, Master Ip’s big-heartedness and lack of Blade II.
business sense soon threaten the viability of his academy and
In a showcase befitting his newly achieved status as an icon, this
he is confronted with additional obstacles when his notoriety
year the San Diego Asian Film Festival will present three films
attracts the attention of the area’s top martial arts academy,
starring Donnie Yen. In addition to our opening night film, Legend
headed by Master Hung Chun-nam (Sammo Hung). Upon
of the Fist: The Return of Chen Zhen, directed by Andrew Lau (Infernal
proving his worthiness to Master Hung, Ip Man and Hung are
Affairs), we will also be screening the historical action drama
soon faced with a common adversary and the responsibility of
Bodyguards and Assassins and Ip Man 2, the eagerly anticipated
defending the honor of the Chinese way of life against a bullying
sequel to last year’s closing night film. — Gene Huh
English boxer backed by corrupt British bureaucrats.
The sequel to the smash hit film Ip Man (SDAFF ’09), IP MAN
2 combines cutting-edge fight choreography and historical
Assassins
drama with the star power of arguably the world’s top martial Bodyguards and
arts action star Donnie Yen (Ip Man) and the legendary Sammo
Hung, who also served masterfully as fight coordinator on the
film. Director Wilson Yip has successfully created a powerful
film that provides not only first-rate action visuals, but also a
potent message regarding the preservation of Chinese culture
and traditions in the face of Western globalization. — Gene Huh
Screening Sponsors:

KAMUI LITTLEROCK
Japan | Japanese w/ English subtitles USA | English and Japanese w/English subtitles
DIRECTOR: Yoichi Sai DIRECTOR: Mike Ott
WRITERS: Sampei Shirato, Kankuro Kudo WRITERS: Mike Ott, Atsuko Okatsuka, Carl McLaughlin
PRODUCERS: Nozomu Enoki, Naoyo Kinoshita CAST: Atsuko Okatsuka, Cory Zacharia, Rintaro
CAST: Ken’ichi Matsuyama, Hideaki Ito Sawamoto, Roberto Sanchez
THU OCT 21, 9:30PM SUN OCT 24, 5:00PM

SUN OCT 24, 8:55PM THU OCT 28, 7:20PM
Contains strong violence Contains some language and sexual situations
Cast out from society as a young boy, Kamui becomes a fugitive 2010 San Francisco International Film Festival
ninja, hunted by...well, all the other ninjas. He leads a life of mistrust 2010 Vienna International Film Festival
and loneliness. Then one day he meets the roguish fisherman 2010 Vancouver International Film Festival
Hanbei, and is given the chance to live a peaceful existence. But A brother and sister from Japan – Atsuko and Rintaro – find
can Kamui ever know true peace, his past returning to haunt him themselves in Little Rock on their pilgrimage to Manzanar, CA
at every turn...? (the Japanese internment camp where over 100,000 Japanese
That said, there are only three things you need to know about Americans were imprisoned during World War II). With very
KAMUI: ninjas, pirates and sharks. That pretty much sums up little English, they quickly party with the locals and befriend one
the highlights, as we see live action versions of ninja battles in particular named Cory who instantly displays a keen interest
heretofore only seen in anime, as well as some outlandish CGI in Atsuko (who speaks almost no English). Behind his friendly
effects that surround the quieter scenes of idyllic village life. and charismatic persona, Cory has some deep troubles brewing
including some debts to some drug-dealing friends. When the
Director Yoichi Sai (Blood and Bones) does a nice job of blending time comes for the siblings to continue their journey, Atsuko
the adrenaline-charged moments with the more contemplative decides she wants to stay behind and spend more time with Cory
parts of the film. And it helps to have a cast of characters filled and a few other boys who become fond of her.
with rogues and men-with-secrets; as Kamui, star Ken’ichi
Matsuyama has the appropriate sullen countenance the role LITTLEROCK is a deceptively simple plot, but contains many
requires. layers and rich character development. The film also depicts
language barriers, where no one can understand each other, yet
KAMUI is for fans of mange, swords and grievous personal hells. everything about the film is perfectly clear. Director Mike Ott
Good times will most assuredly be had by all. — Steve Norwood, allows the characters to reveal themselves and the story without
Asian Film Festival of Dallas much over explanation. Newcomer Atsuko Okatsuka is alluring
as the nearly dialogue-less protagonist. Produced on a very
modest indie budget, LITTLEROCK is elegant filmmaking all the
way to the very last scene, which despite the characters’ difficulty
in connecting to each other, is pitch perfect. — Mye Hoang
Cast and crew scheduled to attend Oct 24.
Co-presented by:
Japanese American Historical Society of San Diego

MACHO LIKE ME MANILA SKIES
USA | English Philippines | Tagalog w/English subtitles

DIRECTOR/WRITER: Helie Lee DIRECTOR/WRITER: Raymond Red
PRODUCERS: Helie Lee, Ken Mok PRODUCERS: Raymond Red, Dave Hukom
CAST: Helie Lee CAST: Raul Arellano, John Arcilla, Ronnie Lazaro,
Soliman Cruz
SAT OCT 23, 2:00PM

TUE OCT 26, 9:30PM SAT OCT 23, 8:40PM
Contains language and violence
In this true account of a woman’s six-month journey living life as

a man, Helie Lee cuts off her hair, wears men’s clothes and moves Ten years later after winning a Golden Palm Award at the Cannes
out of her home to begin life as Harry. Helie’s motivation for this Film Festival for his short film “Anino”, filmmaker Raymond Red
drastic move was inspired by many relationships with men gone brings us MANILA SKIES, a simple parable about a desperate
awry. With friends Anna and Katie to document the change and man who desires to improve his life earnestly but finds himself
her experience as a man, Helie puts on screen all of the things she backed into a corner with very few options at his disposal.
needs to do to make the change. The central figure of the film, Raul (Raul Arellano), represents the
Helie sets out to prove a point: that men have it better than predicament for the majority of Filipinos. Mr. Arellano perfectly
women, however, she soon discovers that may not be the case immerses himself as the enigmatic Raul, whose life slowly
and she finds herself with a new view that surprises her. As she declines before our eyes. MANILA SKIES outlines Raul’s various
works on being a man, she starts off by passing as a gay man, struggles that include applying for a government supported job
then tries bonding through sports, and then she runs into an training program and using a less than reputable job agency for
awkward and near disastrous encounter with a few macho jobs outside of the Philippines. These events contribute to Raul’s
Latinos. Through a moment of epiphany at the Playboy Mansion, state of mind, which eventually leads to a fateful life decision.
she begins to see that men have it harder than she ever imagined. Inspired by a true event, MANILA SKIES is Red’s first feature film
Views on men, privilege, and relationships are tested as this since garnering top honors at Cannes in 2000, and continues to
dynamic documentary shows a whole new side to the battle of prove his storytelling skills. — Eric Lallana
the sexes. — Phil Lorenzo
Filmmaker Helie Lee scheduled to attend Oct 23.
Co-presented by:
CSU San Marcos Women’s Center
KoreAm Journal
Audrey Magazine

MIXED PLATE THE MOUNTAIN
SPECIAL THIEF
Clap Clap
Serving up a variety of short stories with interracial Philippines | Tagalog w/English subtitles
relationships as the main course. 78 minutes | Video | 2008
TRT: 75 min DIRECTOR/WRITER: Gerry Balasta
PRODUCERS: Gerry Balasta, Nina Balasta
CAST: Manuel Gonzaga, Pogi Casas, Randy Catonjay,
MON OCT 25, 5:40PM Emily Magtangob
LYCHEE THIEVES
Director: Kathleen Kwai Ching Man| 29 min | Video | 2010 SUN OCT 24, 6:30PM
A bountiful lychee tree causes quite a commotion among locals fighting WED OCT 27, 9:35PM
for the sweet fruit, revealing humorous and contentious interactions
among the culturally diverse people of Hawai’i.
Imagine a world where the only means of living is rummaging
CLAP CLAP through a giant mountain of garbage to find useful items in a
Director: Tanuj Chopra | 13 min | Video | 2010
sea of refuse. Throw in a father trying to provide his starving
In this noir tale, an illegal gun dealer faces the difficult decision of staying
young son with enough food to survive, territorial rivalries, and
with her faithful lover Roy (Sung Kang) or betraying him to make a deal
involving a mysterious buyer. an accusation of murder to complicate a story in which one man
is simply trying to find importance and love in a cruel world.
DURAI AND SARO
Director: Prema Menon | 26 min | Video | 2010 Setting the stage in Promised Land, Patayas, writer/director
An Indian construction worker and Filipino maid live lonely lives as Gerry Balasta uses real life garbage scavengers to tell a fictional
foreign workers in Singapore, but find companionship in a strange land. story that mimics the actual lives they live, detailing the harsh
TALL ENOUGH realities they face everyday with unparalleled conviction. Balasta
Director: Barry Jenkins | 7 min | Video | 2010 returned to the Philippines to bring light to a heart breaking
A sweet story about love found at Bloomingdale’s… in China. reality, and set up an acting workshop in order to teach the
inhabitants of Promised Land how to best communicate their
own story for the big screen. The struggles of Julio and his son
as they deal with the menacing Ato is not simply fiction, but a
reflection of the difficulties facing these real life trash scavengers
on a daily basis.
In addition to retelling the story of Promised Land in the
Philippines, Balasta has also created the Mount Hope Project,
an organization dedicated to improving the lives of the people
whose lives he has exposed to the world on screen in hopes of
giving them a better chance for the future. — Brandon Coyle
Filmmaker Gerry Balasta scheduled to attend Oct 24.
Co-presented by:
Miramar College Filipino American Student Association

NI HAO KAI LAN’S NINJA,
BIG PLAY ARE YOU CRAZY??
Daughters My Best Friend Big Foot
A free double-feature of films for children. Outrageous, funny, and sometimes shocking — these
comedy films are guaranteed to hit your funny bone.
TRT: 80 min
SAT OCT 23, 10:30AM (FREE)
FRI OCT 22, 8:20PM
First, we present Nick Jr.’s popular NI HAO KAI-LAN, as she stars in her SUN OCT 24, 12:30PM
first BIG PLAY, but Hoho gets angry when he does not get the part of the Contains adult language & violence
Monkey King. TRT: 25 min
THUG LIFE
Director: Emil Lin | 6 min | Video | 2009
KID’S CORNER Only one thing can stop Wallace Williams’ rise to the top of the gangsta
rap world — his secret love of 80’s pop music.
CRUSH THE SKULL
Short films for the young at heart. (Good for ages 5 and up)
Director: Viet Nguyen | 10 min | Video | 2010
TRT: 32 min.
A stranger shows up to help a stranded couple...could he be a serial
killer?
ORANGE CITY
Director: Qingyuan Wang | 6 min | Video | USA
AJUMMA, ARE YOU CRAZY??
Director: Brent Anbe | 25 min | Video | 2009
This animated metaphor explains the importance of sharing and
Three Korean drama fans in Hawaii stop at nothing to meet their favorite
working together. Korean star, in town to shoot a music video.
THREE TIMES ME MY BEST FRIEND BIG FOOT (Ep. 1)
Director: Wendy J.N. Lee | 4 min | Video | USA Director: Roman Cortez | 5 min | Video | 2010
Hiding under the table at a dinner party, a young girl imagines her adult Scott shares some wacky adventures with his best friend, Bigfoot.
life based on the guests’ shoes.
THE GODMOTHER
DUCKS, DUCKS Director: Lior Chefetz | 15 min | Video | 2009
Director: Chia-Jui Wei | 10 min | Video | Taiwan A gangster’s wife tries to call-off a “ hit” on her husband. Her biggest
An amusing documentary about grade school students who raise ducks obstacle — her own mother!
to protect their rice paddies. NINJA, SAY WHAT?
FIRST IMPRESSIONS Director: Viet Nguyen | 5 min | Video | 2010
Director: Dongjin Seo | 2 min | Video | USA A new n-word is spreading through the Asian American community.
A shy young boy collects lightning bugs and finds a surprise fairy. MY BEST FRIEND BIG FOOT (Ep. 2)
Director: Roman Cortez | 3 min | Video | 2010
SLURP Who knew Bigfoot was a perv?
Director: Kane Diep | 6 min | Video | USA
Two friends learn what it means to be polite at dinner at each other’s THE CALL CENTER
homes. Director: Rumana Huq | 13 min | Video | 2009
‘The Office’ is outsourced to Mumbai in this mockumentary about a
SUNGUY novice call center agent in India.
Director: Michelle Xin | 4 min | Video | USA
TORTURE
An animated short that uses the sun and the seasons to show the Director: Lushun Quon | 6 min | Video | 2010
importance of good friends. A political satire about the torture of a seemingly innocent man.
Co-presented by: Filmmakers, cast, and crew scheduled to attend

Barnard Elementary School Co-presented by:
Nick, Jr. Asian Cultural Festival of San Diego
THE 11TH ANNUAL SAN DIEGO ASIAN FILM FESTIVAL | 60 San Diego State University Asian Alumni Association

NINOY AQUINO AND THE ONE BIG
RISE OF PEOPLE POWER HAPA FAMILY
USA, Philippines | English Canada | English

DIRECTOR/WRITER/PRODUCER: Tom Coffman DIRECTOR/WRITER: Jeff Chiba Stearns
PRODUCER: Ruth Vincent
CAST: Jeff Chiba Stearns
TUE OCT 26, 7:30PM
SAT OCT 23, 2:10PM

Benigno “Ninoy” Aquino represented the indomitable spirit
of opposition to Ferdinand Marcos’ martial rule over the
Philippines. A descendant of politicians who fought for Filipino After attending the annual family reunion, half Japanese-
independence, he was imprisoned for speaking out against Canadian filmmaker, Jeff Chiba Stearns, decides to document his
Marcos’ policies and for his efforts to re-establish a democratic personal journey to seek out answers for why all the generations
government. Despite his incarceration, and aware of the plan of family members even beyond his grandparents were involved
to assassinate him, Ninoy toiled relentlessly for the freedom of in interracial relationships.
his people. His example of nonviolent resistance inspired the ONE BIG HAPA FAMILY became a natural follow-up to Jeff
underground movements that would eventually overthrow the Chiba Stearns 2005 documentary short about cultural discovery
Marcos regime. titled “What Are You Anyways?” Director Stearns learns with the
NINOY AQUINO AND THE RISE OF PEOPLE POWER weaves help of interviews with family members and local historians that
an intimate, cinematic portrait of Aquino’s passionate struggle. almost nearly all Japanese Canadians are marrying interracially-
Using archival footage and interviews with Ninoy’s family and the highest compared to all other ethnic races in Canada. The
friends, Director Tom Coffman immerses the viewer in the tense insight provided by his family challenges Jeff and the audience
political climate of a Philippines not so long ago. Inextricable about our perceptions on the purity of culture and race.
from that history is the story of one man’s love for his country Stearns successfully integrates live action with animation resulting
and the people he considered worth dying for. A powerful film in a fascinating view of the discoveries in this documentary. —
for those who remember his work, it is also inspiring for the Eric Lallana
generations that never knew Ninoy Aquino. — Jason Low
Filmmaker Jeff Chiba Stearns scheduled to attend.

Filipino American National Historical Society – San Diego Buddhist Temple of San Diego
The Filipino Press Japanese American Historical Society of San Diego

ONE VOICE THE PHOTOGRAPH
USA | English and Hawaiian w/English subtitles Indonesia | Indonesian w/English subtitles
84 minutes | Video | 2009 94 minutes | 35mm | 2007
DIRECTOR: Lisette Marie Flanary DIRECTOR/WRITER: Nan Achnas
PRODUCERS: Heather H. Guigni and Ruth Bolan PRODUCERS: Nan Achnas, Shanty Harmayn,
Paquita Widjaja-Afief
CAST: Kay Tong Lim, Shanty, Lukman Sardi, Indi Barends
SAT OCT 23, 12:45PM

SUN OCT 24, 8:35PM
At Kamehameha High School on the island of Oahu, Hawaii, Contains strong language and adult situations
the hallways buzz with excitement and anticipation for Song
Contest, the annual inter-class choral competition in Hawaiian
Any film with a title as self-reflexive as this one had best
song. Far from being a local version of ABC’s American Idol, Song
overcompensate by rewarding its viewers with a feast of exquisite
Contest is a prestigious performance in the state for participation
imagery. In that sense (and many others) THE PHOTOGRAPH is
by Kamehameha students, and a proud demonstration of the
a picture you won’t soon forget.
revitalization of Hawaiian culture in the 21st century United States
since its prohibition in the 1860’s during American colonization. Sita (Shanty) sends most of what she earns working as a
Told through the eyes of the students, Song Contest is one of prostitute in an Indonesian karaoke bar back home so her ailing
many programs at Kamehameha School that introduce Native mother can look after her 15-year-old daughter. She needs to
Hawaiian youth to their history and heritage. As each student make as much money as possible in order to afford her child a
arrives to school from incredibly diverse backgrounds, they unite better way of life (and keep her pimp happy). Tossed from her
in one voice in celebration of their common culture. apartment, Sita manages to talk her way into the attic above the
studio of Mr. Johan (Kay Tong Lim) a contemplative, terminally
Director Lisette Marie Flanary (Na Kamalei: The Men of Hula, Best
ill portrait photographer in the market for a successor.
Documentary Feature SDAFF ’07) is an accomplished filmmaker
and active hula dancer recognized for her heartwarming Initially Sita sees no need for Johan to take more than a couple
documentaries around Hawaiian culture and the dance of hula. of photographs of his subjects, but as time passes she acquires
the patience (and poise) needed to do the job. She also finds
ONE VOICE shares the personal stories of these contemporary
tenderness and meaning while watching Johan prepare for his
Hawaiian youth as they explore their own Hawaiian heritage inside
death.
and outside the classroom. With breathtaking performances
interwoven with personal testimonies of the students and their THE PHOTOGRAPH is an engrossing, exceedingly well-acted
families, the film is a universal story about identifying with one’s exploration of the power images have to both inspire and
own culture. — Nicole Matteson restrain. — Scott Marks
Screening sponsor: Co-presented by:

Hom Family Foundation Indonesian Art Center

PROMISE RAMCHAND
AND UNREST PAKISTANI
Philippines, Ireland, United Kingdom Pakistan | Urdu w/English subtitles

English, Tagalog and Waray w/English subtitles 105 minutes | Video | 2008
94 minutes | Video | 2010 DIRECTOR: Mehreen Jabbar
DIRECTORS/ PRODUCERS: CAST: Nandita Das, Navaid Jabbar, Rashid Farooqui,
Alan Grossman, Aine O’Brien Syed Fazal Hussain
SUN OCT 24, 12:40PM

MON OCT 25, 5:30PM
Contains adult situations
Separated from her daughter Gracelle at 7 months, Noemi Young Ramchand and his family live in a poor Hindu community
Barredo left the Philippines for work in Ireland to support her on the border of India, in Pakistan. A mischievous child,
family. PROMISE AND UNREST is a portrayal of maternal Ramchand spends his days ditching school and wandering
sacrifice by a migrant woman in her role as sole provider for her the surrounding countryside until one day he strays too far,
family in the Philippines. crossing the border into India. He and his father, who runs after
Dublin may be a long way from Noemi’s hometown of Babatngon, Ramchand, are detained by the Indian Military and imprisoned,
yet she retains a sharp eye on the welfare of her family, paying accused of being spies. Together they struggle to adapt to their
for the education of her daughter and son, medication for her new living conditions, not knowing whether they will ever be
terminally ill father and her sister’s nursing degree. Through the released.
addition of home video footage and mother-daughter voice-over Alone and grief-stricken, Ramchand’s mother, played by Nandita
narration, the film captures the transnational reach of Noemi Das, struggles to pay off the family’s debt by working in the fields.
and Gracelle’s relationship, and the hardships, hatred, and She makes daily visits to the police station despite their lack of
many difficulties that are presented to the transnational migrant information or assistance. And though initially confident in her
worker family’s return, as years pass she too begins to doubt whether
Filmed over a five-year period PROMISE AND UNREST is an they will ever be reunited.
intimate portrayal of a migrant woman performing care-giving Based on actual events, RAMCHAND PAKISTANI explores the
and long-distance motherhood, and the universal struggle of the social prejudices and political tensions that exist between India
migrant experience that reminds us that borders can be created and Pakistan. Yet rather than focus on ideological conflicts,
through land or across the seas. — Phil Lorenzo director Mahreen Jabbar balances the serious political setting
with Ramchand’s unique coming of age story. Featuring a
charming performance by newcomer Syed Fazal Hussain,
RAMCHAND PAKISTANI is a moving drama about the tests of
the human spirit. — Jason Low

AF3IRM The South Asian Bar Association of San Diego

RASPBERRY MAGIC THE RED CHAPEL
USA | English North Korea/Denmark

88 minutes | Video | 2010 English, Danish and Korean w/English subtitles
DIRECTOR: Leena Pendharkar 88 minutes | Video | 2010
PRODUCER: Megha Kadakia DIRECTOR: Mads Brugger
CAST: Lily Javaherpour, Ravi Kapoor, Meera Simhan, Keya
Shah, Bella Thorne
MON OCT 25, 8PM
THU OCT 28, 7:45PM
SAT OCT 23, 6:30PM Contains some adult language
MON OCT 25, 4:00PM (FREE)
2010 Sundance Film Festival
2010 Los Angeles Film Festival
Filmmaker Leena Pendharkar wrote this story about a young 2010 SXSW Film Festival
girl’s connection to nature. In RASPBERRY MAGIC, 11-year
THE RED CHAPEL can be easily described as the most
old Monica Shah tries to win at the local science fair with her
difficult film to explain. And yet, it is a towering achievement
experiment on speeding up the growth process of raspberries
in filmmaking as insane as it sounds. Danish filmmaker Mads
with touch therapy. The burden of her project grows heavier on
Brugger travels to North Korea – the most isolated country in the
her mind because Monica believes winning will draw her parents
world – with a pair of North Korean-born Danish comedians by
back together.
his side. Together, the three embark on this experimental journey
Lily Javaherpour delivers a beautifully understated performance to bring “Danish comedy” to North Korea as a cultural exchange
as the quietly driven and self motivated Monica. These personal under the pretext of being a small theatre troupe called “The
traits have been instilled and nurtured over the years by her father Red Chapel.” But what the North Koreans don’t know is that it’s
Manoj. Ravi Kapoor (Crossing Jordan) delivers an outstanding all a hoax – a la Michael Moore or Sasha Baron Cohen. The film
performance as Monica’s strict but very supportive father. Even plays off as a Borat in North Korea of sorts. Shocking and insane
as the head of a traditional Indian family, Manoj finally realizes enough? Then mix into that the fact that one of the comedians is
the values he firmly passes down to his daughters also must a self-proclaimed spastic.
apply to himself - especially in his desperate search to find a new
From the moment the trio touch down, they are treated with
job after being let go from his old job weeks earlier.
warm hospitality and over-politeness – so much so that it is
This film delivers a clear view about the peaks and valleys of unnerving as it is simply a mask to hide the pain and suffering
family life. Ms. Pendharkar’s feature debut reflects her previous of the people. One must wonder, who is really pulling the hoax
successes with documentary and short film formats. — Eric here – Brugger or the Korean regime? As the hoax plays out and
Lallana they rehearse under the careful watch of their Korean hosts,
the two comedians begin to emotionally unravel and Brugger
Actress Lily Javaherpour scheduled to attend Oct 23. becomes anxious about the risks they are taking that could end
up dangerous for them. It is hard to believe that Brugger pulls
off a film that is so darkly hilarious and yet deeply emotional – a
film experience that makes audiences laugh in sheer shock and
Free screening made possible by: then punches them in the stomach. Part activist filmmaking and
outrageous black comedy, THE RED CHAPEL is a rare experience
and it is hard to imagine anything like it. Miss at your own risk.
JOHN S. YI
— Mye Hoang

REEL VOICES
EN
“I didn’t go into Reel Voices thinking that I wanted to be a filmmaker. Quite the
H
opposite, actually.. But somehow, by the time I finished my documentary, “Dick,
T
Dick and Jane”, this all changed.
During the making of my film, I learned how to check white balance and
compose a shot. I learned that every person has a fascinating story waiting to
be told. Most importantly, I learned more about myself than I ever thought
I would. The Reel Voices experience helped me discover my determination,
sensitivity, and desire to share human experiences with others. Somewhere
along the way I realized that filmmaking was my passion.
When I proudly say that I want to become a cinematographer or even a
film director, it is directly the result of Reel Voices. The program gave me
the opportunity of a lifetime with great instructors, equipment, and the
chance to see my work on the silver screen. My life hasn’t been the same
since. My work has screened at film festivals across the nation, and
now I am determined to go all the way. Sundance, anyone? It’s a tough
journey, no doubt, but Reel Voices taught me that I can make it.”
— Mari Jacobson, Reel Voices Class of 2008
NOW
“The most important aspect of film-making aking I learned

from Reel Voices is the persistance neededeeded by any
aspiring director to achieve his “vision”,”, to be able
to adapt to changing situations and circumstances
cumstances
while shooting, before shooting and afterr shooting.
shoo
sh ooti
ting
ng.
Thanks to this opportunity to learn with th others
like myself, I felt to safe to explore my own
wn style
and get support a long the way. “
— Calvin Ha, Reel Voices Class off 2010

REEL VOICES
R
World Premiere
Presented by Bank of America and Union Bank, REEL VOICES is a fresh, raw look at compelling stories of high school
filmmakers. Each film in this dynamic program represents an intensely personal journey for the students, who learned as
much about cinematography and editing as themselves.
V
Reception immediately following screening
SUN OCT 24 12:00PM (FREE)
CAN YOU HEAR ME NOW? | Brian Brennan | 6 minutes

Starting at a young age, Colleen Novakovich has become increasingly deaf. She explains how she has
learned to cope with this in a funny, honest, and inspiring way.
MUSICAL WARRIOR | Angel Gatus | 8 minutes

A young boy inspires and compels others to care through music and friendship while fighting his battle
with cancer.
MEJOHN | Phillip Bernardino-Gomez | 5 minutes

An eccentric man goes through life collecting strange items such as pantyhose, his own brand of
miniature cars, and anything else he believes that has a special value to it.
TECHNOMANIA CIRCUS | Christian Guzman | 9 minutes

A tour through a circus held in an eclectic venue in the backyard of a house in the barrio.
HIDING THE PAST | Kanyon Iwami | 4 minutes

The tattoo removing process and how people’s lives are affected negatively and positively through
their decisions to get a tattoo.
BREAKING EXPECTATIONS | Kevin Tran | 8 minutes

A young B-Boy struggles with the disapproval of his lifestyle by his parents, who see the only way to a
successful life is through good academics.
TO MEAT OR NOT TO MEAT | Lauren Lynch | 8 minutes

A vegetarian does whatever necessary in order to stick to her principles while living in a meat lover’s
paradise, while also debating whether or not her vegetarianism is even worth all the trouble.
THE SEED | Calvin Ha | 13 minutes

This story follows a young musician, Devin McGuire, and his desire to bring together the fi rst ever
Music Festival in his suburban hometown of Mira Mesa.
Presenting Sponsors:

You are an artist.
You see the true beauty in creative expression. You strive to elevate our culture. You believe the arts make our community
and the world a richer place. For your dedication and your passion, we salute you.
Union Bank is proud to sponsor the 11th Annual San Diego Asian Film Festival.
Clairemont Priority Banking Office – 4225 Genesee Avenue, San Diego, CA 92117
Rowena Holloway, VP & Sr. Priority Banking Relationship Manager, (858) 569-2314
Business Banking – 6010 El Cajon Boulevard, San Diego, CA 92115
Paul Johnson, Business Development Officer, (619) 229-6467
©2010 Union Bank, N.A. Visit us at unionbank.com

ADOPTION SPOTLIGHT EXTREME SERIES
RESILIENCE ROBOGEISHA
USA, South Korea | English, Korean w/ English subtitles Japan | Japanese w/English subtitles
DIRECTOR: Tammy Chu DIRECTOR/WRITER: Noboru Iguchi
PRODUCERS: Tammy Chu, Anthony Gilmore, PRODUCERS: Naobumi Ashi, Akira Fujita,
Jessica Windt Kazunari Okuma, Yui Shibata
CAST: Yoshihiro Nishimura, Naoto Takenaka, Asami,
Takumi Saitô
MON OCT 25, 6:00PM
THU OCT 28, 4:00PM (FREE) FRI OCT 22, 10:30PM
Contains extreme violence, nudity and sexual situations
West Coast Premiere
For most of his life, Korean adoptee Brent Beesley always had Noboru Iguchi presents a story of espionage, political intrigue,
one question lingering in the back of his mind while growing up in and Robotic Geishas. Yoshie and Kikue Kasuga are two geishas
South Dakota– why did his birth parents give him up? Meantime who live normal “geisha” lives until they are tricked into being
in South Korea, a single mother, Myungja Noh, continues to live recruited to serve steel tycoon Hikaru Kageno, who has devious
her life with regret without her son. More than thirty years ago, intentions for the girls — to turn them into murderous cyborg
her family secretly put her son up for adoption while Noh was assassins and help Kageno Steel take over the world!
away trying to find a job. She was only 18 years old. From that
As the plot thickens Yoshie discovers that what she has become
moment, Noh says, “I lost everything when I lost my son.”
is not what she wants to be. Meanwhile, her sister Kikue falls
In RESILIENCE, we see the emotional reunion of a mother and under the company line, to destroy and recreate Japan in their
child made possible through a Korean reality television show. image. Yoshie has to slice and dice her way through many women
The meeting transformed their lives and over the next four years; that were taken away from their families to become demonic
Beesley and his birth mother attempt to build a relationship cyborg killers and ultimately a final clash with her sister (all while
amidst family betrayal and the legacy of adoption. But with so looking hot in her kimono).
many obstacles - language, culture, distance, and unspoken loss
Iguchi’s style of filmmaking (like his 2007 hit Machine Girl)
- can two strangers find a way to become mother and son?
continues to have plenty of gore, babes, and laughs. SDAFF
As part of a growing number of films on international adoption, EXTREME continues its goal of bringing extreme film fans the
director Tammy Chu’s RESILIENCE stands out for its rare and best of the best of the goriest and outright funniest fringe films
very personal perspective of a single mother in Korea where from the rising sun! Recommended with Alien vs Ninja. — Phil
strong social stigmas still exist. RESILIENCE is a reminder that Lorenzo
for every adoptive family’s gain, there is also an unspeakable
loss. — Lee Ann Kim
Co-presented by:

Co-presented by:
JOHN S. YI
Tabe BBQ

SONGS FROM THE
SOUTHERN SEAS STANDING QUEER
George and Brad in Bed
Kazakhstan | Kazakh and Russian w/English subtitles From Prop 8 punishment to military closet-busting, it’s
80 minutes | Video | 2009 time to take a stand.
DIRECTOR: Marat Sarulu TRT: 92 min
PRODUCERS: Sain Gabdullin, Karsten Stöter,
Benny Dreschsel, Yuri Obukhov, Guillaume De Seille
FRI OCT 22, 7:10PM
CAST: Vladimir Yavorsky, Dzhaidarbek Kunguzhinov,
Contains adult language and sexual content
Irina Agejkina, Ajzhan Ajtenova
GEORGE AND BRAD IN BED
Director: Jessica Sanders | 5 min | Video | 2009 | USA
Jump into bed for an intimate chat with George Takei and his longtime
SAT OCT 23, 12:20PM partner.
MON OCT 25, 7:25PM ORGANISM
Director: Nina Reyes Rosenberg | 14 min | Video | 2009 | USA
When teens Jen and Carmen lock eyes, sparks fly and confusion reigns.
Director Marat Suralu draws from his own cultural and PICTURES OF ZAIN
ethnic experiences as a base for his third feature film. SONG Director: Faryal | 18 min | Video | 2010 | UK
FROM THE SOUTHERN SEAS opens in Kazakhstan with two A Pakistani woman is forced to wrestle with her prejudices after the
death of her gay son.
neighboring couples, one Russian and one Kazakh, living side by
side in relative harmony. Then one day the wife of the Russian TORTURE
Director: Lushun Quon | 6 min | Video | 2010 | USA
couple gives birth to a boy of darker skin setting off a chain of A twisted look at the joys of torture — with a queer flair.
events spanning over fifteen years of acrimony between them. An DIANA
attempt to restore a peaceful existence depends on both couples Director: Aleem Khan | 11 min | Video | 2008 | UK
willingness to reflect on their lineage from the past and present The Death of an icon grips a nation, sending Mohit, a pre-op transsexual,
day. on a wrenching journey.
NO ASIANS...IT’S JUST NOT MY THING
Suralu delivers a very credible film that allows each cast member Director: Scott Eriksson | 16 min | Video | 2010 | USA
to shine by not over emphasizing one character over another. A young man’s steamy encounter leads to a maddening mind trip.
This technique allows them to develop their own identity and THE BEST IS YET TO COME
contribute their importance to the story. The scenes delving into Director: Eunice Wu | 15 min | Video | 2009 | USA
the past of Ivan (Vladimir Yavorsky), opens our eyes to the fact When the Prop 8 election results pour in, a young lesbian couple must
that sometimes the passing along of family history can be altered confront their fears and family.
over generations of time. LOVE IS WORTH IT
Director: Sung-Min Yi | 7 min | Video | 2009 | USA
Marat succeeds by integrating his personal knowledge of his A day in the life of a gay National Guardsman battling Don’t Ask
own ethnic history to create an insightful tale about our own Don’t Tell.
interpretations of culture and race. — Eric Lallana
Co-presented by: Family Health Centers of San Diego,
FilmOut San Diego, First UU Church Rainbow Outreach,
Greater San Diego Business Association, Guys Like Us,
Long Yang Club of SD, P.F.L.A.G. SD Chapter,
San Diego Alliance for Marriage Equality,
San Diego POZabilities, SDSU LGBT Community,
Servicemembers Legal Defense Network,
UCSD LGBT Resource Center

STATE OF ALOHA TAHAAN
USA | English India | Hindi w/English subtitles

77 minutes | Video | 2010 105 minutes | 35mm | 2008
DIRECTOR: Anne Misawa DIRECTOR: Santosh Sivan
PRODUCERS: Tom Brislin, Chris Lee WRITERS: Santosh Sivan, Ritesh Menon, Paul Hardart
CAST: Ah Quon McElrath, Alice Guild, Jason Scott Lee, PRODUCERS: Shripal Morakhia, Mubina Rattonsey
Bozo Pualoa CAST: Purav Bhandare, Victor Banerjee, Ankush Dubey,
Sarika
SAT OCT 23, 2:45PM

SAT OCT 23, 11:00AM
Largely anchored by personal narrative, STATE OF ALOHA is a TUE OCT 26, 4:00PM (FREE)
unique look at Hawaii—beyond the visions of surfers shredding
swells, sun-soaked beaches, and crystalline waters.
Tahaan is an 8-year-old boy living in the war torn region of
On August 21, 1959, Hawaii became the 50th and last state to
Kashmir whose only concern in life is the well-being of his
join the United States. While movies, television shows, and glossy
beloved donkey. When the donkey is sold to pay a family debt,
brochures have idealized the state, the real story behind Hawaii’s
Tahaan embarks on a quest through the mountains to reclaim
statehood is a complex one. Narrated by Jason Scott Lee (Dragon:
his pet and is naively drawn into the realities of war and violence
The Bruce Lee Story), himself one quarter Hawaiian, this revealing
that have always plagued his life in the background.
documentary examines the motivating factors that propelled
the islands toward statehood, from American imperialism and TAHAAN (2009 nominee for Best Children’s Feature at the Asia
a queen’s downfall to Asian immigration and the bombing of Pacific Screen Awards) and has played at multiple film festivals
Pearl Harbor. Though Hawaiian residents voted overwhelmingly around the world, including London, Rome, and Seattle.
for statehood, the film looks at the hidden price cost paid by Writer/director Santosh Sivan has crafted a fable-like story that
native Hawaiians. Natives have the highest levels of drug and juxtaposes the innocence of childhood with the perils of violence,
alcohol abuse, poverty, and incarceration of any group on the and anchored them perfectly upon the young shoulders of Purav
islands. While statehood paved the way for political equality, a Bhandare. It is a beautiful story of pure and simple love that
booming tourism industry, and skyrocketing land prices, there promotes peace through the eyes of a child. — Brandon Coyle
is a growing clamor over native Hawaiians squeezed out of land
rights, as well as environmental issues like water sustainability.
Using interviews from community activists, businessmen,
politicians and ordinary citizens, the film explores not only the
motivating paths toward statehood but the legacy left behind,
and its impact on the state’s next 50 years in the union. —
Michael Chen
Filmmaker Anne Misawa scheduled to attend.
Screening sponsor: Hom Family Foundation

Co-presented by:
Drinking Liberally in Carlsbad JOHN S. YI
Japanese American Historical Society of San Diego

THE TAQWACORES TIBET IN SONG
USA | English USA | Tibetan w/English subtitles

DIRECTOR: Eyad Zahra DIRECTOR: Ngawang Choephel
WRITERS/PRODUCERS: Michael Muhammad Knight, PRODUCERS: Tara Steele, Don Thompson,
Eyad Zahra Yodon Thonden
CAST: Bobby Naderi, Dominic Rains, Nav Mann,
Volkan Eryaman
TUE OCT 26, 5:15PM

TUE OCT 26, 7:40PM
Contains strong language, violence and sexual situations 2009 Sundance Film Festival
TIBET IN SONG celebrates traditional Tibetan folk music and
2010 Sundance Film Festival shows us the heartbreaking journey into the past fifty years of
Yusef, a Muslim college student in New York, moves in to a house cultural repression inside Chinese controlled Tibet. Director and
off campus populated entirely with devout young Muslims, former Tibetan political prisoner, Ngawang Choephel, composes
much to his parents’ delight. Yusef soon finds out, however, that a story of pain and resilience. He gives us a view of Tibet rarely
his new roommates are a far cry from the conservative Islam seen before until now.
environment that Yusef is so accustomed to. They always rise for Traditional Tibetan folk music is showcased throughout the
morning prayer and visit the mosque on weekends - but they also documentary with a variety of scenes with Tibetans playing and
drink, smoke, do drugs, have sex, and most importantly, love singing about family, work and the beauty of the land. These
punk rock music. As Yusef begins to adapt to his new friends’ rarely seen performances are set against the ironic backdrop of
way of life, he also starts to understand that the philosophies of archival news footage of the early days of the Chinese invasion
the punk movement may not be so different from those of Islam. and the Dalai Lama’s flight into exile in 1959. Choephel’s own
TAQWACORES premiered at the 2010 Sundance Film Festival eventual imprisonment for recording the very songs at the center
with a healthy dose of buzz from the media and members of of the film reflects the continuous discord between China and
the real life Taqwacore movement, a subculture whose name Tibet.
is a blend of the word taqwa, symbolizing love of Allah, and TIBET IN SONG emotionally connects audiences with the
hardcore. The speed, grit, and DIY style of the film’s cinematic struggles of Tibetans to maintain their unique cultural heritage
techniques mimic those of punk culture, lending the storytelling in the face of Chinese brutality. — Eric Lallana
an authenticity that comes with a grassroots movement. But
most importantly the film’s message is not solely one of young
Muslims in rebellion, but one that examines the deep passion and
philosophy of religion through a completely different perspective
with a conclusion that leaves viewers with something to think
about. — Brandon Coyle
Co-presented by:
City College World Culture Program

TIME TRAVELLER: THE GIRL UNCLE BOONMEE WHO CAN
WHO LEAPT THROUGH TIME RECALL HIS PAST LIVES
Japan | Japanese w/English subtitles Thailand | Thai w/ English subtitles

122 minutes | 35mm | 2010 114 minutes | Video | 2010
DIRECTOR: Mamoru Hosada DIRECTOR: Apichatpong Weerasethakul
PRODUCERS: Jirô Abe, Masatoshi Fujimoto, Masaki Kai, CAST: Thanapat Saisaymar, Jenjira Pongpas, Sakda
Shusaku Matsuoka Kaewbuadee, Natthakarn Aphaiwong
CAST: Kim Ok-bin
TUE OCT 26, 9:20PM

SAT OCT 23, 5:30PM Contains nudity and sexual situations
MON OCT 25, 7:00PM
2010 Cannes Film Festival
2010 Puchon International Fantastic Film Festival
Suffering from acute kidney failure, Boonme spends his last days
West Coast Premiere with his sister-in-law and nephew on his remote country farm.
Neither remake nor sequel, TIME TRAVELLER is the live action While having dinner one evening, they are joined by the ghost of
expansion of Mamoru Hosada’s The Girl Who Leapt Through Time Boonmee’s dead wife and a mysterious incarnation of his lost
(2006). The original novel by Yasutaka Tsutsui has been made son, who each recount how they came to exist in their present
into a number of films and drama series that follow the novel’s forms. Though comforted by the presence of his wife and son,
protagonist Kasuko Yoshiyama. Boonmee comes to believe that his illness is the result of bad
karma. Feeling his last hours approaching, he trudges into the
In TIME TRAVELLER, the protagonist this time is Kasuko’s forest with his loved ones by his side to meditate on his lives:
daughter Akari, a quirky high school student, who gets sent on past, present and future.
a mission back in time by her mother to deliver an important
message to a certain Kazuo Fukamachi in the year 1972. When With a deliberate, pensive pace and loose narrative structure,
Akari gets the year mixed up and stumbles in 1974, she recruits UNCLE BOONMEE WHO CAN RECALL HIS PAST LIVES brings
the help of a filmmaker she had literally fallen onto. Her new the viewer into the mystic folk culture of Thailand’s northern
aspiring filmmaker friend Ryoto helps her try to find this Kazuo countryside. Utilizing only the most primitive special effects
in various plans including throwing all their cash together to take and lighting setups, the film maintains a surreal atmosphere
out a personals ad. In return, Akari helps Ryoto finish a film he is that is refreshing and truly unique in today’s world of digital
making which is set...in the future, of course! post-production. A mixture of deadpan humor and serious
introspection, this is an enlightening cinematic experience
Fun for youth as well as adults, TIME TRAVELLER has the familiar from Thailand’s most acclaimed filmmaker Apichatpong
back to the future storyline, but with plenty of clever twists and Weerasethakul, winner of the Palm d’Or Prize at this year’s
turns by the end. This new addition to the ever-popular Girl Cannes Film Festival. — Jason Low
Who Leapt Through Time series is also a charming story of true
friendships and promises that must be kept. — Mye Hoang
Co-presented by:
Anime Conji
Japan Society of San Diego and Tijuana

VOICES WAKE UP,
IN THE CLOUDS I LOVE YOU
Tall Enough
Taiwan | English and Mandarin w/English subtitles A hearty collection of films about the universal language
82 minutes | Video | 2010 of love and affection.
DIRECTOR: Aaron Hose TRT: 84 min
PRODUCERS: Chris Bremer, John Schaub
CAST: Tony Coolidge, Shu-min Hsu Coolidge, SAT OCT 23, 4:45PM
Steven Coolidge
WED OCT 27, 5:15PM
Contains some language and adult situations
TUES OCT 26, 5:40PM OH! HAPPY DAY
THU OCT 28, 5:20PM Director: Ji-eun Park | 8 min | HDCam | 2010
Girl from unit #1406 finally decides to confess to the boy from unit
North American premiere #1405. But will he love her back?
Deep in her heart Tony Coolidge’s mother always had a desire THE VISITORS
Director: Samina Akbari | 6 min | Video | 2010
to bring her family back to Taiwan to meet their relatives. Born
Nisa keeps her boyfriend a secret from her family. As mice invade their
to a Taiwanese mother and American soldier he’s never met, the
apartment, she is forced to face what she’s really hiding from.
gentle, soft spoken Tony was always bothered by the fact that his
mother “made a concerted effort to shield (her children) from FLIPPING
Director: Samuel Kiehoon Lee | 29 min | Video | 2009
her culture and from her language.”
S. Korea Breaking up is not so cut and dry in this romantic dramedy of
Not long after graduating college Tony’s mother was handed a four ex’s.
death sentence. After losing her battle with cancer, her oldest
LOVE IS WORTH IT
son begins to delve deeper into his cultural heritage. After Director: Sung-Min Yi | 10 min | Video | 2009
successfully organizing an international cultural and heritage A day in the hectic life of 1st Lt. Dan Choi, the new face in the movement
celebration in the United States, a festival member invites him against the military’s Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell policy.
back to Taiwan.
A THOUSAND WORDS
Tony embarks on a personal journey to his homeland where he Director: Ted Chung | 5 min | Video | 2010
soon discovers that his family are descendants of an indigenous A portrait of big-city loneliness and instant connections that go ‘ping’
tribal culture called the Atayal. After settling on the island of and are gone seconds later
Taiwan over three thousand years ago, indigenous people now YOURS TRULY
comprise less than 2% of the island’s population. Tony is so Director: Kevin Chan | 7 min | Video | 2010
moved by the plight of his ancestors and a culture living on the Singapore, Australia A bubbly florist realizes she has lost more than she
brink of extinction that he gradually becomes a staunch advocate gained when she receives a cornea transplant.
for his people. WAKE UP
We follow Tony as he traverses his native soil embracing each Director: Viet Nguyen | 12 min | Video | 2010
An unwelcome house guest comes to shake up young couple’s stale
person he meets and every cultural breakthrough he encounters
marriage
as a springboard to enlightenment. — Scott Marks
TALL ENOUGH
Filmmakers in attendance Director: Barry Jenkins | 7 min | Video | 2010
A young interracial couple explores their relationship on a quiet Saturday
Screening sponsor: Co-presented by: in Brooklyn.
Taiwanese American Community Co-Presented by:
Center

ADOPTION SPOTLIGHT
WO AI NI MOMMY YOGA
USA | English, Cantonese w/ English subtitles South Korea | Korean w/English subtitles
DIRECTOR/WRITER: Stephanie Wang-Breal DIRECTOR/WRITER: Yun Jae-Yeon
PRODUCERS: Judish Helfand, Jean Tsien, PRODUCERS: Lee Tae-Hun, Shim Bo-Kyoung, Lee Eugene
Stephanie Wang-Breal CAST: Yoo Jin, Cha Su-yeon, Lee Young-Jin, Jo Eun-Ji
SAT OCT 23, 12:15PM SUN OCT 24, 9:30PM

MON OCT 25, 9:55PM
2010 Silverdocs Film Festival Grand Jury Winner Contains violence and sexual situations
With more than 70,000 children adopted from China into the
After being replaced by a young pageant queen as host of a
U.S. since 1992, WO AI NI MOMMY takes on the enormous task
popular shopping network, Hyo Jeong (Yoo Jin) decides to enroll
of explaining the history of transracial, international adoption in
in a very strict and isolated yoga academy. She and the rest of her
a way we have never seen before — through the eyes of an older
classmates hope to obtain a spiritual level of Kundalini, a state of
adoptee.
coiling your body at will. Hyo’s fateful decision leads to horrifi c
Sui Yong, an eight-year-old orphan from Guangzhou, China results in Jae-Yeon Yun’s supernatural thriller YOGA.
is chosen to be the newest member of a loving Jewish family
Hyo, who’s at the door of reaching 30, has always relied on her
from Long Island. Following her move from China to the U.S.,
physical beauty to satisfy her needs. The protagonist does a
we watch in fascination (and sadness) as everything that Sui
remarkable job displaying the emotional distress when younger
Yong once knew and loved is slowly stripped from her. Even the
more beautiful women are ready to step in her shoes and take
language changes, from timidly spoken Cantonese to a more
her place.
forceful English. When she utters, “You are a white person and
I am Chinese,” we know that an identity struggle is under way. Director Jae-Yeon Yun creates highly authentic looking scenes of
yoga classes. In fact, two months prior to filming, Yun had all
While many adoption documentaries are either created after the
seven lead actresses participate in three hours of yoga training
fact (now-adult adoptees recalling their adoptions, for instance)
day and night. Yoga succeeds with giving us a view of a woman’s
or are only shown through the adoptive parents’ point of view,
constant need for emotional fulfillment when she feels her
WO AI NI MOMMY gives us a rare glimpse into the psyche of
beauty is fading away with aging. — Eric Lallana
an older Chinese girl as she metamorphosizes into an American
right before our eyes. — Adapted from SFIAAFF
Screening Sponsors:
Screening Sponsors:
Well Go USA
Co-presented by:
Co-presented by:
Barnard Elementary School Tabe BBQ
Families with Children from China – San Diego KoreAm Journal
San Diego Jewish Film Festival Audrey Magazine

YOUNG AND C F J 8 E > < C < J
RESTLESS 8J@8E
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Eggbaby
Growing up fast never comes easy in life.

TRT: 84 min
FRI OCT 22, 5:10PM

Contains language, adult themes and sexual situations
EGGBABY
Director: Nadine Truong | 23 min | Video | 2009
Allison’s class assignment results in unexpected revelations.
FINE THREADS
Director: Adele Pham | 13 min | Video | 2010
Three teenagers discuss their views on various topics affecting their lives.
WHEN THE TIME IS RIPE
Director: Shion Takeuchi | 6 min | Video | 2010
A son ponders why he looks different in comparison to family.
THE PRODIGY
Director: Adam Lee | 6 min | Video | 2010
A young pianist’s debut reveals her difficult road to success.
JUST CURIOUS
Director: Joanne Park | 11 min | Video | 2010
College student wonders aloud his ongoing crush for a teacher.
STRUGGLE
Director: Alex Munoz | 13 min | Video | 2010
Young islander man deals with a desperate and hopeless environment.
TOP SPIN
Director: Sara Newens and Mina T. Son | 12 min | Video | 2010
Teenager becomes top table tennis player due to hard work and sacrifice.
Co-presented by:


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THANK YOU LIST 2010
A special thanks to the following people who helped make our 11th festival really special.
AAJA San Diego Kathryn Hammelman Antonio Martinez, Jennifer Sanderson, CAPE
Brent Altomare, Chuck Hansen, Viejas UltraStar Theaters Anna Sarao
Groovy Like A Movie Tyler Hewes, Orchestra Nova Janine Mason, Fieldstone Dana Sass, Barona
Beth Accomando, Foundation
Yvonne Hernandez, Joanna Seetoo Schiele
Film School Confidential SDSU Residential Life Erin Maushart,
Westfield Horton Plaza Carolyn Scholl, AKA So Cal
Natalie Acklin, SDFF Loretta Hom
Marnie McGranahan, Chipotle David Seid, Taste of Asia
Thomas Ackerman, Tom Hom
Spirit Graphics and Printing HP Mendoza Steve Seo, SD Saram
Andy Hoang Joanna Seetoo
Cara Appel-Silbaugh, UCSD Harry Miyahira, HME
Bob Hoffman Productions Woo-Jin Shim, County of SD
Beck Bamberger, Jennifer Meyers, Jack in the Box
Bam Communications Peter Hong Patricia Sinay, Holland America Line
Joe Min, Intertrend
Theresa Battle, Price Charities Tracie Hong, SD U-T Pam Slater-Price, County Supervisor
Hope Murray, TWC
Dan Bennett, North County Times David Hou, Drama Fever Krislyn Smith, Focuscom
Leonardo Nam
Amy Berry, Cox Communications Derek Hsu, TECO-LA Hyung J. Song
Eric Netherland
Brian Blake, Daniel Hwang, Yogurtland Kay Song
Dustin Nguyen
SDSU Hospitality Program Julie Hwang, AFFD Louis Song, Proven Inc.
Theresa Nguyen-Muth, State Farm
Jon Block, Walk the Walk Timothy Hwang, Zion Market Samuel Song
TK Nguyen, Victory Entertainment
Heather Bohn, KNSD NBC-Universal Chris Ige, CAUSE Weston Song
Greg Nolan, Gilead
Abby Borbon-Roaquin, Parisa Jaffari, UltraStar Theaters Subway Cinema, NYAFF
Ulan Med Spa Masashi Niwano, CAAM
Keli Jamiga, UltraStar Theaters Ryan Suda, Blacklava
Steven Bourdeau, Wells Fargo The Noor Family, SDAV
Hua Jin, SDCAA Tom Sudberry
Aaron Bruce, SDSU Steve Norwood, AFFD
Neil Kendricks Seema Sueko, Mo’olelo
Allan Camaisa, Risen Keesa Ocampo, ABS-CBN
Chol Kim, Coke Bottling Co Taipei Economic and Cultural Office
Megan Camaisa, Risen Dene Oliver
Darryl Kim in Los Angeles (TECO-LA)
Steve Carlton, AFFD Mark Oliver, All American Grill
Elizabeth Kim Karen Tani, JACL
Herb Cawthorne, Viejas John Orara, Blog TV Fam
Gene Kim Steven Tao, CAPE
Cristina Chacon Ileana Ovalle, Cox Communications
Jay Kim, Paramount Pictures Joyce Teague, JAHS
Gracie Chen, Prudcential Cynthia Jo Otteson, Intertrend
Jinah Kim Jack Toan, Wells Fargo
Julia Cheng, Wealth Management Hoa Quach
Laura Kim Goran Topalovic, Subway Cinema
Lily Cheng, Confucius Institute Andrew Pai, Hyphen Magazine
Myung Soon Kim Clarissa Torres, Ulan Med Spa
Karin-Anna Cheung Jason Pak, A-B
Steven Kim, Eunsung Printing Greg Toya, CSUSM
Sheau-Ching Chiang-Nicholas, Jung-Ho Pak, Orchestra Nova
Yejin Kim Duane Trammel, 48HFP San Diego
Yu-Yu Magazine Daniel Park
Dr. Yong J. Kim Michelle Tsai, Mira Mesa Living
Pamela Chien, NBC Universal Edward Park, Barnard Elementary
Monica Ko Alan Tse, LG Electronics
John Cho Lina Park
Toan Lam, GIG Felix Tuyay, SWC
Jeewon Choi, KCCLA Shawn Park, Sansai
Beverly Lambert, Orchestra Nova Tracie Ugamoto
Leo Chu, Spike TV Jennifer Parker, SDSU Associated
Elizabeth Latham, LG Electronics Students Marissa Upchurch,
Leeva Chung, USD Triniti Management
Anderson Le, HIFF Judy Patacsil, Miramar College
Phillip Chung, YOMYOMF Music Watson
Dae Lee, Kashi Marciano Perez UCSD
John Cole, Prudential Insurance Michaela Watson
Chong Lee, Qualcomm Doris Pfardrescher, Well Go USA
Melissa Cook, Sharp Health Plan Rebecca Webb, ArtPower UCSD
Chris Lee, Gami Sushi Quan Phung
Dan Cornthwaite, Well Go USA
SDSU Associated Students TK Lee, TECO-LA Cecil Pratt, UltraStar Theaters
Stephen Lew Jonathan Wexler,
Greg Cox, County Supervisor Chris Principio, Landmark Theaters ARTS, A Reason To Survive
Crystal Decker-Norwood, AFFD Susan Lew Elise Prosser Lorena Whiteside
James Dierker, Stella Artois George Lin (RIP) Charlene Pryor, SD Zoo Linda Wilkinson, Best Buy
Marc Emmelmann, SDPAL Frank Lin Joseph Ramirez, UCSD CCC Alan Wong
Epoch Times Karen Lin Ebonie Rayford, UCSD Simon Wong
Julius Estanislao, Verizon Justin Lin, YOMYOMF Allan Regala Nancy Worlie, KPBS
Kevin Faulkoner, Councilmember Phillip Lin Reggie Regala Anders Wright
Abe Ferrer, VC Tricia Lin Rodney Regala Daniel Wurst, Yelp
Cesar Figueroa Nancy Liu Dr. Craig Reid Kent Yang, TECO-LA
John Fountain, Prudential Insurance Eric Llana Joe Richter, UltraStar Theaters Lily Yee, Goldilocks
Fritz Friedman, Sony Pictures Nancy Lo, APHAFIC Jeff Roberto, SOAR Robert Yee, Goldilocks
Donna Frye, Councilmember Thomas Long, Intuit Ron Roberts, County Supervisor Yong Ki Yoo, Eunsung Printing
FUNimation Michael Lomotan, Plan C Frank Robinson, Union Bank Tony Young, Councilmember
Sue George, MOPA Ingram Losner, PROVEN Inc Mario Rodriguez, Funimation Phil Yu, AngryAsianMan
Debbie Gonzalez, Bank of America Tiffany Lynch, TWC Victoria Rodriguez, Focuscom Timothy Yeun, Burkett & Wong
Jenn Goodrum, PopChips Kai Ma, KoreAm Journal Tatiana Roven Su-Mei Yu, Saffron
Rey S. Guerrero, UCSD Dylan Marchetti, Variance Films Carlene Rowe, Stella Artois Jake Zamzow, UltraStar Theaters
Diana Guevara, Cox 4 Arnold Marquez Damon Rubio, UltraStar Rick Zeiler
Victoria Hamilton Scott Marks Robert Sanchez, GTM Jing Zeng, ACCEF

2010 PRINT SOURCE LIST
ABOUT HER BROTHER BLACK COFFEE CITY OF LIFE AND DEATH DURAI & SARO
Shochiku Persistence of Vision Films Media Asia Distribution Rupture
Junko Kawaguchi Bao Tran Noiz Chu Prema Menon
jkawaguchi@shochiku.co.jp 2010 N 153rd Pl Noiz_chu@mediaasia.com 4, Marine Vista
Shoreline, WA 98133 #14-59
THE ACTRESSES 206-910-6219 CLAP CLAP Singapore, Singapore 449028
Eugene Kim info@pov-films.com Tanuj Chopra +65-9739-5764
SHOWBOX/Mediaplex, Inc. tanujchopra@gmail.com menon.prema@gmail.com
Eugene@showbox.co.kr BODYGUARDS AND ASSASSINS
Katrina Wan CLASH (BAY RONG) THE EARRINGS
ACTUALLY, I AM A SUPERMAN Indomina Media Jenni Trang Le Gulbara Tolomushova
Rose Chang Katrina.wan@indomina.com jennitrangle@gmail.com gulbaratolo@gmail.com
INDIESTORY Inc.
indiestory@indiestory.com BOMBAY TO BROOKLYN: COLIN HEARTS KAY ECHOES OF THE RAINBOW
PREETWORKS Sebastian Ho Conley Tai Seng
ADOPTED Carole Ryavec Sc@conleybrothers.com Jon Soo
Point Made 124 E 79th Street Jonsoo@taiseng.com
Catherine Wigginton New York, New York 10021 CRUSH THE SKULL
119 W 72nd St. Ste. 324 319-880-9838 Chris@cherryskyfilms.com EGGBABY
New York, New York 10023 car136@columbia.edu American Film Institute, Chapman
917-558-7284 CUPID CORP. University
info@pointmade.com BORN SWEET Bryan Zhang Andi Hamamoto Kowal
Cynthia Wade Productions, Inc. 322 Ausley Road, Apt. H P.O. Box 507
AIR DOLL Cynthia Wade Tallahassee, FL 32304 Huntington Beach, CA 92648
Palisades Tartan 170 Prospect Part West, 4R 724-766-2968 714-493-6300
Debbi Berlin Brooklyn, NY 11215 btz07@fsu.edu hamam100@chapman.edu
dberlin@palisadestartan.com 718-768-2310
cwade@cynthiawade.com CUT SHORT EMPIRE CORNER
AJUMMA! ARE YOU KRAZY??? Jason Tobin Medium 10-12
Brent Anbe Productions, LLC A BRAND NEW LIFE 4th Fl., 502 Shanghai St. J.P. Chan
Brent Anbe Jiyoon Lim Mong Kok 40 West 116 St, #B606
99-544 Ohekani Place FineCut Hong Kong, Hong Kong New York, New York 10026
Aiea, HI 96701 jiyoon@finecut.co.kr 619-822-2084 917-216-4662
808-728-3026 jj@jjtobin.com jpchan@gmail.com
brent.anbe@gmail.com BREAKING EXPECTATIONS
info@sdaff.org DAUGTHERS EMIPIRE OF SILVER
ALIEN VS. NINJA Chloé Zhao Christina Yao
Sushi Typhoon THE BRIDGE 244 Knickerbocker Ave, Apt #3R christinahyao@gmail.com
Marc Walkow The Filmgym Brooklyn, NY 11237
917-716-5888 Philipp Wolter 646-289-0713 EVIL POWERS
marcwalkow@sushi-typhoon.com 315 Seigel Street, Apt. 314 chloe@stratfordfilms.com Fernando Huerto
Brooklyn, NY 11206 10058 Challenger Cir.
AMAZONIA 347-408-1223 THE DEBT Spring Valley, CA 91978
Aloha Animation philipp@filmgym.net Unit 5 Films 619-471-6517
Sam Chen Andrew Oh cloogie64@hotmail.com
info@AmazoniaMovie.com CAFÉ SEOUL 2439 Oswego St. #9
Niners Entertainment Pasadena, CA 91107 FINDING FACE
AU REVOIR TAIPEI Eun-young Choi 626-683-9454 SpinFilm
Beta Film GmbH teferet@niners.co.kr ady145@yahoo.com Skye Fitzgerald
Gruenwalder Weg 28 d 5008 NE Halsey
D - 82041 Oberhaching THE CALL CENTER DE JUGUETES Portland, OR 97213
Phone: +49 (0)89 673469 823 Huqster Productions Alba Mora-Roca 503-522-6313
Fax: +49 (0)89 673469 888 Rumana Huq C/Grancesc Macia 29 spinfilm@gmail.com
235 East 95th Street, Apt. 8G Girona, Spain 17007
BANDHOBI New York, New York 10128 34972211506 FINE THREADS
See ACTUALLY I AM A SUPERMAN 646-752-3845 albamoraroca@gmail.com Adele Pham
rumana@gmail.com 82 Downing St, Apt. C1
THE BEAUTY DIANA Brooklyn, NY 11238
Magic Animation Studio CAN YOU HEAR ME NOW? Aleem Khan 718-666-2705
Qi Chao Mao info@sdaff.org Leemy2k@yahoo.co.uk adelepham@gmail.com
85-4, Tianfu Software Park, Hi-Tech
Zone CAST ME IF YOU CAN FIRST IMPRESSION
Cheng Du, Sichuan 610041 Globetrot Productions DUCKS, DUCKS Dongjin Seo
0086-28-62809283 Atsushi Ogata Hakka Television Station 1130 Greensboro Lane #292
magic-cg@hotmail.com ogata.atsushi@gmail.com Chia-Jui Wei Sarasota, FL 34234
No. 70, Lane 75, Sec. 3, Kang Ning 203-508-4338
THE BEST IS YET TO COME CELESTIAL AVENUE Rd. seodongjin@gmail.com
Eunice Wu Major International Pictures Taipei 114, Taiwan R.O.C.
206-227-7960 Colin Cairnes 886-2-26338200 FLIPPING
crazyblur@gmail.com 12 North Rd. prg50721@hakkatv.org.tw Samuel Lee
Reservior, VIC 3073 AUSTRALIA 45 Eagle Street East
61405490517 Newmarket, ON L3Y 1J2 CANADA
shimcol@optusnet.com.au 905-898-3939
5x90thewake@gmail.com

FOOL FOR LOVE IF I KNEW WHAT YOU SAID LYRICAL EMPIRE: HIP HOP IN NO ASIANS… IT’S JUST NOT MY
Wave Releasing Cinemalaya Foundation METRO MANILA THING
Stephane Gauger CCP Complex, Roxas Blvd. Mark Villegas Erik Sun Productions
4202 W. Jefferson Blvd. Pasay City, Manila 5622 Verano Pl Scott Eriksson
Los Angeles, CA 90016 Phillippines Irvine, CA 92617 P.O. Box 691887
424-239-9283 +63-2832-1125 904-716-6416 West Hollywood, CA 90069
sgauger@wavereleasing.com mrk904@gmail.com 310-612-5117
IN THE MATTER OF CHA JUNG rubbercanoe@sbcglobal.net
FROG IN THE WELL HEE MACHO LIKE ME
Photosynth Entertainment Deann Borshay Liem Helie Lee A NORMAL LIFE, PLEASE
Ken Ochiai borshay@mindspring.com helielee@yahoo.com Entertainment Research &
632 N. Bunker Hill Ave. Suite E Consulting, LLC
Los Angeles, CA 90012 IP MAN 2 MANILA SKIES Yosh Kambe
310-902-4029 Well Go USA Raymond Red 5100 Via Dolce #304
assistant@kenochiai.com Doris Pfardrescher Raymond@raymondred.com Maria Del Rey, CA 90292
doris@wellgousa.com 310-907-6902
GEORGE AND BRAD IN BED MEI LING kambeyosh@yahoo.co.jp
Jessica Sanders KAMUI Sarah Abbas
js@jessicasandersfilm.com FUNimation 35 rue du faubourg poissonière ODE TO A POST-IT NOTE
1200 Lakeside Parkway, Bldg 1 Paris, France 75009 See ONE BIG HAPA FAMILY
THE GODMOTHER Flower Mound, TX 75028 00-33-1-42-46-35-35
Chefetz Jackie.Smith@funimation.com jsbc.sarah@hotmail.fr OH! HAPPY DAY
Lior Chefetz Indiestory Inc.
1806 N. Berendo St, Apt. #208 MEJOHN Ji Eun Park
Los Angeles, CA 90027 JITENSHA info@sdaff.org 4FL, Baekak B/D, Tongin-dong,
323-770-3070 Dean Yamada JongRoh-gu
liorchefetz@yahoo.com P.O. Box 1526 MISTER GREEN Seoul, South Korea 110-043
Monterey Park, CA 91754 Pak Man Productions +82-17-212-3963
GRANDFATHER 213-631-3326 G Pak parkjieun211@gmail.com
UCLA yamada@alumni.usc.edu 285 5th Ave. #423
Hanjin Park Brooklyn, NY 11215 ON TIME
2332 Bentely, Apt #1A JUNKO’S SHAMISEN 646-205-3273 Ted Chung
Los Angeles, CA 90064 Sol Friedman pmp@pakbuzz.com tedchung@gmail.com
310-738-6429 sol@junko-film.com
hanjinfilm@gmail.com MOM ONE BIG HAPA FAMILY
JUST CURIOUS Wooksang Chang Meditating Bunny Studio
THE GREY COAT Joanne Park Wooksang_chang@hotmail.com Jeff Chiba Stearns
Wil LaFayette joannemony@gmail.com Kelowna, AB CANADA V1P 1E1
310-274-6102 THE MOUNTAIN THIEF 250-215-4733
flora@giraldi.com KIDNAP InspireChange Films jeff@meditatingbunny.com
UCLA Gerry Balasta
HEAL Sijia Luo 11 Jackson Ave, Unit 11 ONE VOICE
M.A.A.K. Pictures 3780 Keystone Ave, Apt. 202 Scarsdale, NY 10583 Ruth Bolan
Mian Adnan Ahmad Los Angeles, CA 90034 646-251-8596 rbolan@piccom.org
House 3, Heaven Valley Road, 310-739-6949 inspirechanges@yahoo.com
Banigala rosejoyrose@gmail.com ORANGE CITY
Islamabad, Federal Capital 44000 MUSICAL WARRIOR Qingyuan Wang
PAKISTAN LEGEND OF THE FIST info@sdaff.org 1700 W Hickory Grove RD, Apt.
011-92-51-2612755 See IP MAN 2 5-207
kma_3000@hotmail.com MY BEST FRIEND BIGFOOT EP. Dunlap, IL 61525
LITTLEROCK 1&2 217-417-8977
HIDING THE PAST Mike Ott RomanFilms wqingyuan@gmail.com
info@sdaff.org soundvirus@aol.com Roman Cortez
1530 Manhattan Beach Blvd, Apt. B ORGANISM
HIROSAKI PLAYERS THE LITTLE DRAGON Manhattan Beach, CA 90266 AMO Collective
Jeff Sousa Sidonie Traverse 714-613-2395 Nina Reyes Rosenberg
jeffreysousa@gmail.com 11 rue Denis Papin 35000 roman705@yahoo.com ninareyesrosenber@gmail.com
Rennes FRANCE
HIROSHIMA NAGASAKI Vivement-lundi@wanadoo.fr NINJA, SAY WHAT?! OUT OF INFAMY: MICHI
DOWNLOAD Chris Nguyen NISHIURA WEGLYN
Shinpei Takeda LOST HARMONY chris@cherryskyfilms.com Nancy Kapitanoff
5253 El Cajon Blvd, Suite A Takayuki Yamato 125 S Croft Ave. 2
San Diego, CA 92115 1720 Vienna Woods Dr. Apt 202 NINJAS VS. GUILT Los Angeles, CA 90048
619-405-2742 Raleigh, NC 27606 House of Chai 323-658-6948
staked@ajaproject.org 919-941-0901 David Chai nancykap@sbcglobal.net
vecstor2@yahoo.co.jp 1260 Salvatore Drive
THE HOUSE OF SUH San Jose, CA 95120 THE PHOTOGRAPH
Grayscale Films, LLC LOVE IS WORTH IT 408-813-8919 Jeremy Quist
Iris Shim Yi & Sons Productions davechai@earthlink.net The Global Film Initiative
36 Mulberry Ct. Sung-Min Yi 145 Ninth Street, Ste 105
Glenview, IL 60025 163 Ocean Ave, #4A NINOY AQUINO & THE RISE OF San Francisco, CA 94103
847-873-3580 Brooklyn, NY 11225 PEOPLE POWER Jeremy@globalfilm.com
contactus@thehouseofsuh.com 415-902-7511 Tom Coffman Multimedia
eungen.s.yi@gmail.com Deron Kamisato
323 Kupaua Pl.
Honolulu, HI 96821
dkamisat@yahoo.com

PIA THE SILK ROAD TIME TRAVELER WAKIYAKU MONOGATARI
Tanuj Chopra CPCollaborations Yuko Shiomaki Globetrot Productions
tanuijchopra@gmail.com Cynthia Pepper Pcituresdept.com Atsushi Ogata
P.O. Box 151602 Yuko.shiomaki@picturesdept.com ogata.atsushi@gmail.com
PICTURES OF ZAIN San Rafael, CA 94915
Faryal 415-407-9269 THREE TIMES ME WHEN THE TIME IS RIPE
19 Burrow Road thesilkroadfilm@gmail.com Wendy J.N. Lee Shion Takeuchi
East Dulwich 1201 California Ave. Shion.takeuchi@gmail.com
London SE22 8DU, UNITED SLURP Santa Monica, CA 90403
KINGDOM Kane Diep 310-403-5743 WITNESS TO HIROSHIMA
077938-79643 Kaned89@yahoo.com wendyjnlee@gmail.com Kathy Sloane
fazv55@yahoo.co.uk 1229 13th Ave.
SONGS FROM THE SOUTHERN THUG LIFE Oakland, CA 94606
THE PRODIGY SEAS Emil Lin 510-823-7233
Adam Lee See THE PHOTOGRAPH 1645 Winona Boulevard #208 kathysloanephotographer@yahoo.com
1 LMU Drive Los Angeles, CA 90027
Los Angeles, CA 90045 STATE OF ALOHA 818-640-6609 WO AI NI MOMMY
619- 590-1275 Academy for Creative Media, emillin3@yahoo.com Eyewang Pictures
adam.lee@cox.net University of Hawaii Stephanie Wang-Breal
Anne Misawa TO MEAT OR NOT TO MEAT 27 Strong Place #2
PROMISE AND UNREST 725 Kapiolani Blvd, #703 info@sdaff.org Brooklyn, NY 11231
FOMACS Honolulu, HI 96813 347-227-7210
Alan Grossman 808-956-6662 TOO MUCH OF A STORY swangbreal@gmail.com
alanivor@hotmail.com amisawa@hawaii.edu Tae Lin Oh
mikartd@gmail.com THE WONDER HOSPITAL
RAMCHAND PAKISTANI STORY OF A BUSINESSWOMAN Beomsik Shimbe Shim
Namak Films Mikiko Sasaki TOP SPIN 4772 Franklin Ave. #6
Mehreen Jabbar 135 ½ S Orlando Ave Mina T. Son Los Angeles, CA 90027
379 Washington Avenue Suite 7F Los Angeles, CA 90048 63 Abrams Court, #303 661-600-2171
Brooklyn, NY 11238 323-397-4386 Stanford, CA 94305 siiim_siiim@yahoo.com
646-436-9187 sasaki.mikiko@mac.com 714-705-9210
mehreenjabbar@gmail.com sonminat@yahoo.com WORKS OF ART
STRUGGLE Suffolk Street Films
RASPBERRY MAGIC Alex Munoz TORTURE Andrew Pang
Raspbetty Magic, LLC Alexcmunoz@gmail.com Lushun Quon 218 East 5th Street, Apt 5W
Megha Kadakia 5066 Collis Ave. New York, NY 10003
917-318-0680 SUNDAY PUNCH So. Pasadena, CA 91030 917-304-3026
meghakadakia@gmail.com Dennis Hauck 213-595-4426 panger66@gmail.com
2347 Panorama Terrace lushun@sbcglobal.net
THE RED CHAPEL Los Angeles, CA 90039 WU IS DEAD
Kate Brokaw 323-522-3230 UNCLE BOONMEE WHO CAN Rich Wong
Kino International / Lorber Films foekillerfilms@mac.com RECALL HIS PAST LIVES colmafilm@gmail.com
Kino Lorber, Inc. See THE TAQWACORES
333 West 39th Street, Suite 503 TAHAAN YB BOX
New York, NY 10018 Dave Jesteadt UNRESERVED: THE WORK OF Weiden + Kennedy Shanghai
Tel: (212) 629-6880 ext. 14 GKIDS/New York International LOUIE GONG Flora Yang
Children’s Film Festival Longhouse Media Level 5, No. 1035 Changle Road
RESILIENCE 225 Broadway, Ste 2610 Tracy Rector Shanghai, China 200031
Jessica Windt New York, NY 10007 117 E. Louisa St. #131 +86-21-51583988
181 Hawthorne Street, Apt 2K (212) 528-0500 Seattle, WA 98102 flora.yang@wk.com
Brooklyn, NY 11225 206-387-2468
201-478-9325 TANG nativelens@mac.com YOGA
resilience06@gmail.com Mr. X See KAMUI
Hanung Lee THE VISITORS
RIVER IN HEAVEN 1608, 40 Gerrard St. E Samina Akbari YOURS TRULY
Yuki Yoshida Toronto, AB 200000000 CANADA Saminaakbari@gmail.com Kevin Chan
Yoshida.y-oa@nhk.or.jp 647-832-5768 Agfa_film@yahoo.com
oneoung@gmail.com VOICES IN THE CLOUDS
ROBOGEISHA Voices in the Clouds, LLC
See KAMUI THE TAQWACORES Chris Bremer
Brandon Peters 108 S. Gramercy Pl. #310
THE SEED Strand Releasing Los Angeles, CA 90004
info@sdaff.org 6140 Washington Blvd. 407-421-1472
Culver City, CA 90232 chris@e113.com
SHADOW MAN (310) 836.7500
Anna Hauger WAHID’S MOBILE BOOKSTORE
1848 N Mariposa Ave, Apt. 201 TECHNOMANIA CIRCUS ImagineOn Film
Los Angeles, CA 90027 info@sdaff.org Anjoo Khosla
323-356-1327 1738 Lombard Street, Apt. 5
ahauger@mac.com A THOUSAND WORDS San Francisco, CA 94123
see ON TIME 415-651-4041
anjookhosla@yahoo.com
TIBET IN SONG
Ngawang Choephel WAKE UP
nchoephel@gmail.com See NINJA SAY WHAT??
(646) 406.3075

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San Diego Asian Film Festival on its 11th Anniversary
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SDAFF10 Program Booklet

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The 11th Annual

October 21–28, 2010

Be Wise. Love Film.

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Watch selected ﬁlms from the Asian Film Festival

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Lee Ann Kim

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• Presenting unique, culturally-enriching programs that would otherwise be inaccessible;

COMMUNITY & OUTDOOR REEL VOICES, MEMBERSHIP EVENTS

FREE FILMS ON DEMAND

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A Big Round of Applause For

Pam Slater-Price Ron Roberts Greg Cox

Our Patrons, Members And Filmmakers Thank You!

THE 11TH ANNUAL SAN DIEGO ASIAN FILM FESTIVAL | 10

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Film festivals bring us the best cinematic productions of ﬁlmmakers

We applaud the San Diego Asian Film Festival.

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(619) 228-2300 or 1-800-359-2002 | www.sharphealthplan.com

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LARGE THEATER SPONSOR

SMALL THEATER SPONSORS

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REEL VOICES PRESENTERS EDUCATION PARTNER

MAJOR MEDIA SPONSORS

Consulting | Staffing | Solutions

THE 11TH ANNUAL SAN DIEGO ASIAN FILM FESTIVAL | 14

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Hom Family Fund

EVENT SPONSORS TEXTING SPONSOR

Atomic Phizz BARNARD

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SDAFF MEMBER PRICES

SOLD-OUT SCREENINGS / RUSH LINES

BLOWFISH MUSIC SHOWCASE (OCT 23)

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WE THANK OUR 2010 MEMBERS FOR THEIR GENEROUS SUPPORT!

THE 11TH ANNUAL SAN DIEGO ASIAN FILM FESTIVAL | 17

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SIGNING UP IS SIMPLE! TEXT SDAFF TO 53137

Send 113/ 113/

by Paul John Faeldo

THE 11TH ANNUAL SAN DIEGO ASIAN FILM FESTIVAL | 18

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Why and When will the Hazard Center theater be demolished?

Will the San Diego Asian Film Festival continue?

Why don’t you just move to another movie-plex or theater?

What is the SDAFF doing to prepare for this transition?

I am a SDAFF member. Will this transition affect my SDAFF membership?

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1. CLEAR YOUR SCHEDULE