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Inspired by Miss Koreatown pageants based in Los Angeles in the ‘80s-‘90s, this series features 3 mixed-race Koreans to re-define the concept of beauty for a Korean diaspora. As Koreatowns formed across the U.S., the beauty pageant was a rare occasion for immigrants to gather as a community to celebrate beauty and kinship, and to educate Americans about Korean culture. The sashes reference the various stages of Korean immigration and farmwork carried out by early immigrants - “Miss Sugar” (sugar cane plantations in Hawaii), “Miss Orange” (citrus groves in California), and “Miss Cabbage” (cabbage farms for kimchi making). Los Angeles, as one of the most diverse cities in America, provided a fertile ground for the Korean community to grow and create its own sense of identity, characterized by cultural exchange. Click the video to watch AMERICA FEVER - MISS KOREATOWN.
A mixed-race Vietnamese American returns to Vietnam following her estranged mother’s death where she must face her traditional family to uncover the complexities behind her parents’ separation. Click video to watch WHITE BUTTERFLY.
Two Asian-American teenagers meet in the bathroom of a Chinese restaurant while having dinner with their families. Click video to watch LUCKY FISH on Vimeo.
Following a relapse into anxiety attacks, Elias treads the recesses of his mind to get back to his loved ones. Click video to watch THE MARTYR OF HUDSON YARDS on Vimeo. Content warning: This film addresses issues pertaining to mental health crises and self-harm.
Connected by youth, in spite of age, 7-year-old Juice sets out to protect Grandma Lovely’s memories as her dementia progresses. Click video to watch YOUNG PEOPLE, OLD PEOPLE & NOTHING IN BETWEEN in Nowness Asia.
Present day moments in New York lead Ayeon to reflect on her childhood in Seoul as she redefines her idea of home. Click video to watch CHIMERA.
