Greetings from Asian CineVision (ACV), the New York based media arts non-profit whose mission is dedicated to producing, promoting and preserving Asian and Asian American media expressions by artists of Asian descent; to ensure that the full spectrum of Asian and Pacific Islander (API) diaspora media works reach diverse audiences.
In a year where the mainstream media experienced a renaissance of API presence in front of and behind the camera, and within the boardroom, this has served to be an uplifting and encouraging moment amongst the backdrop of anti-Asian sentiments targeting the community. Independent films MINARI and NOMADLAND uplifted unheard voices, while multiple blockbuster studio films such as SHANG-CHI, ETERNALS, IN THE HEIGHTS, RAYA AND THE LAST DRAGON, among others, brought floods of viewers to the theaters. The major streaming services continued to champion stories like the breakout hit series SQUID GAME, COWBOY BEBOP, and Sandra Oh’s THE CHAIR.
The mainstream success and appeal of these stories validate decades of API media advocacy by organizations like Asian CineVision. It is through intimate post-screening Q&As, industry panels, and filmmaker socials, where artists can find creative collaborators, hone their voice, and connect directly with their audience.
With the new year, new challenges emerge. The Asian American International Film Festival (AAIFF), the world’s first and longest running showcase for independent Asian and Asian American cinema, will celebrate its 45th year. AAIFF45 will highlight ACV’s 1970-80’s activist history in New York City’s Chinatown and feature landmark films from past Festivals. This pairs with CineVue’s launch of their new podcast, THE NEW FLUSHING PROJECT, a deep dive into issues confronting one of New York’s most dynamic ethnic neighborhoods.
We continue to be mindful of the virus that knows no boundaries or limits, as we hope to return to more in-person events where audiences are able to experience cinema in the way that best features the filmmaker’s work.
Join us in supporting our mission to further API diaspora representation in all media and to nurture the visions and voices of our storytellers. We exist and continue to exist only because of you, our community.
Keep safe. Get vaccinated. Be curious. Stay angry.
John Woo
Executive Director