New York Writer

Three Sisters (all small children) Brutually Raped and Killed

2013-02-21T20:33:00.001-08:00

Three sisters were brutally raped and killed in India. This is apparently having substantial political consequences in India, as protesters filled the streets demanding justice. The Indian authorities are finally being forced to put more resources into the protection of women. This comes on the heels of a brutal rape/murder of a young woman in India in Dec. This crime rapidly spread through the news, and finally motivated the Indian government to action. With anti female violence finally out in the open in India, it can be addressed by the government and by the society.

Natalie Kim and the Asian American Film Lab Team Up for an Industry Spotlight Focusing on Social Media: "There Are No Gatekeepers: How to Make Kick-ass Web Content (That Takes You To The Next Level)"

2013-02-10T09:40:00.000-08:00

New York, NY, February 14, 2012 – The Asian American Film Lab (Film Lab) is pleased to announce that actor, writer, and creative entrepreneur Natalie Kim will be providing a gratis workshop teaching creative people how to best utilize social media/technology to support their creative efforts in a special Film Lab Industry Spotlight on March 14, 2013, in New York City.

In this panel discussion: "There Are No Gatekeepers: How to Make Kick-ass Web Content (That Takes You To The Next Level)" Natalie Kim will moderate a discussion about current web series and web content creators.  By the time this panel is over you will have a better understanding of what kind of content audiences want to see, how you can do it without going broke and how to use your content to build relationships and [potentially] make money.

The Industry Spotlight, “There Are No Gatekeepers: How to Make Kick-ass Web Content (That Takes You To the Next Level)” will take place on Thursday, March 14, 2013, 6 – 8pm. This event will be free and open to the public although RSVPs to industryspotlight@film-lab.org are required.

About Natalie Kim

Natalie Kim (www.NatalieKim.com) is a comedic actress and writer and loves the intersection of creativity and business. She wrote her comedic solo show, YO GIRL! about growing up a Korean adoptee which, she performed in the Midtown Theatre Festival (Producer's Award), HERE Arts Center and The Edinburgh Fringe Festival. She also produced in and starred in the comedy web series SuperTwins! (www.SuperTwins.TV), which she co-wrote with 2 time Emmy winning comedian, Josiah Madigan (with Trevor Zhou).

About Asian American Film Lab and Industry Spotlight The Asian American Film Lab (Film Lab) began as collaborative of New York-based filmmakers whose goals were to hone their craft and to share their knowledge, experience and resources. The membership has grown to comprise professionals, artists and other talented individuals who all share the common goal of creating great film and promoting Asian American filmmakers and the visibility of their stories and characters in film and television.

The Film Lab's Industry Spotlight program features industry professionals who wish to promote and encourage diversity in film and television and includes filmmaking how-to seminars on everything from cinematography to sound, casting workshops, film screenings, and more. The Film Lab is run under the direction of President Jennifer Betit Yen. Board members include screenwriter and director, Aaron Woolfolk, actor James Kyson Lee, actress and director Bea Soong, producer Erik Lu, attorney Peyton Worley, and advisors cinematographer, Eric Lin, and Director of Asian CineVision, John Woo. Industry professionals interested in providing a seminar, class, screening, or other Industry Spotlight should contact Perry Tsao at IndustrySpotlight@film-lab.org.

The Film Lab’s programming includes filmmaking workshops with industry professionals, screenwriting contests, and film competitions including the annual 72 Hour Film Shootout. This annual competition has inspired hundreds of filmmakers by helping nascent talent take brave steps towards a filmmaking career.

The Asian American Film Lab is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization. Membership and all contributions are tax-deductible to the fullest extent of the law.

http://www.asianamericanfilmlab.org info@film-lab.org

Cinematography in its Infinite Possibilities: Update

2013-01-18T06:25:00.001-08:00

On Jan. 17th, at AARI CUNY, the Asian American Film Lab hosted an event with cinematographer Eric Lin. The event was moderated by Erik Lu. Both Lin and Lu are board members of Asian American Film Lab. The film lab works to increase diversity in the media and to provide workshops for members of the film community.

Eric Lin spoke in great deal about the technical and artistic aspects of cinematography. He was very informative about the active phase of production, filming, and also about the collaboration between directors and directors of photography during pre production.

Lin showed clips of two of the feature films he directed. The two were Exploding Girl and Arcadia. His work is excellent, and Lin spoke on how they set up the lighting, worked with other crew members such as the sound team, etc. This event would have been excellent not only for seasoned members of the film community, but those just entering the film industry would have benefited from attending. Lu asked Lin questions as moderator, and Lin also took questions from the audience.

Cinematography in its Infinite Possibilities

2013-01-13T06:47:00.000-08:00

As Conrad Hall famously said, cinematography is "infinite in its possibilities." Join the Asian American Film Lab as we host the first Industry Spotlight of 2013. On January 17th, we are inviting acclaimed director and cinematographer and AsAmFilmLab Board member Eric Lin for a not-to-be missed Industry Spotlight panel discussion, where he will be sharing his work and providing insight as a cinematographer working in the industry. The event is free and open to the public. Special guest Erik Lu, producer, director and founder of Descendant Films and AsAmFilmLab Board member, will moderate the event.

Eric Lin studied film criticism and sociology as an undergraduate at UC Berkeley. He went on to pursue his passion for visual storytelling and earned his MFA at New York University's Graduate Film Program. He has shot numerous short films, including: “Missing” by director Kit Hui, which premiered in competition at the 2005 Cannes Film Festival; and “Franklin and Matilda” by Paul Dano, starring Eddie Redmayne and Zoe Kazan. His feature film work includes Hui’s feature debut, “Fog”, which premiered at the 2010 Edinburgh Film Festival; and Bradley Rust Gray’s “The Exploding Girl”, which premiered at the 2009 Berlin Film Festival and was released theatrically by Oscilloscope Laboratories. His most recent production, Olivia Silver’s “Arcadia” featuring Academy Award Nominee John Hawkes, premiered at the 2012 Berlin Film Festival, where it was awarded the Crystal Bear for Best Film. Lin’s other features have taken him abroad to Hong Kong, Cuba, and Haiti. Other works of Lin include music videos for Gaslight Anthem, Asobi Seksu, a concert video for Madonna’s 2012 World Tour, as well as projects for Nickelodeon, Google and SAP. Eric is also a member of the Board of Advisors for the Asian American Film Lab.

Erik Lu is a graduate of the film production program at University of Southern California where he studied writing/directing under faculty such as Michael W. Watkins (The X-Files, Monk), Nina Foch (Spartacus, An American in Paris), and Gordy Hoffman (Love Liza). He has a natural eye and extensive training in cinematography under Earl Rath, ASC, (Raid on Rommel) and John Tarver, CSC, (Mothman, Seance). He has also done videography for Pixar Animation Studios in Emeryville, CA. Erik has made over 50 films in the last few years that have been distributed both domestically and internationally. Recent collaborations also include work with director/cinematographer Daniel Zhao (Far East Movement/Cali Swag District) and Emmy Award winner DP Dan Wills. Since moving back to the east coast, Erik has directed/shot several music videos and commercials and is currently writing a feature to direct in 2013. Erik is also a member of the Board of Advisors for the Asian American Film Lab.

Asian American Film Lab Workshops Chakra Media's Film Project Breached

2013-01-03T23:22:00.001-08:00

The Asian American Film Lab (501(c)(3)) hosted one of its long-running Unfinished Works programs on November 8th, featuring Chakra Media's "Breached," a feature film script that follows an American couple who, while posted on a project in India, hire an Indian surrogate mother to carry their baby. But the project pits them against their surrogate in a high stakes battle of corporate greed, corruption, murder and deception. Written by Genevieve Castelino and Kiran Merchant, "Breached" made it into the 2nd round of the 2013 Sundance Institute|Mumbai Mantra Writers Workshop. Castelino's plan is to begin pitching Breached in the Q1 of 2013. She stated, "It would be a tremendous help and support to workshop the screenplay to help us refine and rework the screenplay as we approach the next rewrite effort." The event took place at AAARI-CUNY in New York City. After the filmmakers were introduced, the actors took their places and began the reading. After the script was reading, Unfinished Works host Jean Goto moderated questions on Breached. Castelino and Merchant said the screenplay was inspired by events actually taking place in India, such as the surrogate mothers renting out their wombs, the killing of protesters,and corporate abuse. The actors themselves also commented on the script. The actors during the reading were the following. Michelle Ang, Jennifer Betit-Yen, Perry Tsao, Monisha Shiva, Geeta Citygirl, Jinn S. Kim, Kamran Khan Imran, Javaid Marissa Carpio, Ron Voz, and Julie Pham. Both the Asian American Film Lab and Chakra Media have other interesting things going on. The next Asian American Film Lab event is the Holiday networking gala, featuring live music, raffles, and other fun things. For tickets and more info, go to the film lab's site. Chakra Media's previous feature film "Quarter Life Crisis," stars Lisa Ray (Academy nominated Water), acclaimed comedian Russell Peters (Sourcecode) and Maulik Pancholy (Hitch, 30 Rock, Weeds). The film was in six festivals, distributed worldwide and is currently playing on Showtime in the U.S.

Asian American Film Lab 2012 Holiday Fundraising Gala

2012-12-18T01:46:00.001-08:00

On Dec. 15th, the Asian American Film Lab has its Holiday Fundraising Gala. The Film Lab is a 501(c) non profit committed to increasing diversity in film and in all media. Sponsors included Asian CineVision, The Korea Society, MyJennyBook, Veatery, Ollies, The Mill, Baked by Melissa, Mayday radio, and more. The funds raised at this gala all went to diversity outreach and programming in the entertainment industry. A number of sponsors and participants gave away free prizes during the raffle, to those who had winning tickets. Asian CineVision gave away a free gold pass to the Asian American Film Festival in 2013. Michael Cinquino provided a free two hour professional photo session. The Korean Society gave away free membership. A pack of 10 free seminars at Actors Connection in New York were given away. A number of films with Asian or Asian American writers, directors, producers, or stars were distributed during the raffle. Clairvoyant and life coach Julia Morgantini did free readings. This event also included live musical performances. Students from Pratt Institute performed Chinese classical music. The highlight of the musical performances though, was Jeff Ting of Mayday Radio. Ting’s music and songwriting have recently gotten him acclaim from the Huffington Post.

NYC's West Village Now an Upscale Neighborhood

2012-09-27T13:10:00.001-07:00

The West Village, a neighborhood once known for grungy dive gay bars, has now become a quiet residential neighborhood. While Christopher Street has not yet 100% transformed, a walk around other side streets in the neighborhood such as Bank Street, Jane Street, Hudson Street, etc reveal the new village.

Many of the old brownstones have been renovated. The ones that have not yet been renovated are in the process of undergoing renovation. Construction is quite busy in the area. About a week ago I walked around the neighborhood and was surprised to see the changes. A number of new buildings, complete with courtyards (with trees and gardens) have emerged near the Hudson river. Now I understand why celebrities purchase apartments in the area. Its beautiful, and a number of side streets have restaurants on them. And of course, its only a short walk away from public transportation, and of course one can always hail a taxi on the main avenues. The new buildings have parking, for those who want to keep their cars.

Bronx District Attorney Halts Prosecution of those Arrested for Trespassing in Projects

2012-09-25T20:31:00.000-07:00

The Stop and Frisk campaign continues to have effect on policy. Its latest victory is that Bronx prosecutors will no longer automatically prosecute those arrested for trespassing on NYCHA grounds. As Joseph Goldstein from the 09/25/2012 New York Times reports:

In a significant blow to New York City’s use of stop-and-frisk tactics, the Bronx district attorney’s office is no longer prosecuting people who were stopped at public housing projects and arrested for trespassing, unless the arresting officer submits to an interview to ensure that the arrest was warranted.

Prosecutors quietly adopted the policy in July after discovering that many people arrested on charges of criminal trespass at housing projects were innocent, even though police officers had provided written statements to the contrary.

Apparently, officers stopped people without evidence that they had just committed a crime, or intended to commit a crime. Even when the alleged trespassers had friends vouch for them as guests, or that they lived in the housing projects, they were still arrested.

The fact that the Times, which has often completely backed the policies of the NYPD in "cleaning up" New York City is covering this abuse of police powers is fairly significant, as is the realization of the DA's office that its a waste of court resources, as well as a violation of civil rights to prosecute innocent people. Keep up the good work, Stop and Frisk.

The Agent to star Holly T, Lovari Lovari

2012-09-25T14:12:00.001-07:00

The Agent, my first feature film, is under development. Its inspired by real life con artist Melanie Mills, among other similar entertainment con artists who have made the news. The Agent stars fabulous actress/singer Holly T as outrageous con artist Alice Jones, and Lovari as police officer Ted. Justin Samuels wrote it and is directing. Keep viewing my blogs for updates. The Agent is both SAG and WGA.

ASIAN AMERICAN FILM LAB TO HOST “HEARTS SUSPENDED”

2012-09-25T08:11:00.000-07:00

Contact: Jennifer Betit Yen, President
Asian American Film Lab
jennifer@film-lab.com

Perry Tsao, Director
Industry Spotlight Program
perry@film-lab.org
“Hearts Suspended” 201-682-8480

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE ASIAN AMERICAN FILM LAB TO HOST “HEARTS SUSPENDED” SCREENING AND WRITER/DIRECTOR Q&A

New York, NY – September 25, 2012 – The Asian American Film Lab (AsAmFilmLab) is pleased to announce that it will be hosting a special screening of the award-winning documentary, “Hearts Suspended,” followed by a Q&A session with writer/director,Meghna Damani, and domestic violence victims’ advocate Maneesha Kelkar. The event will take place October 25, 2012, at 6pm in New York City and will be open to the public, although RSVPs to Industry Spotlight program director will be required for admittance. AsAmFilmLab President, Jennifer Betit Yen, and Industry Spotlight Officer and Director, Perry Tsao, will be moderating the event. The discussion will explore how film can be used as a vehicle to effectuate social change.

RSVP to IndustrySpotlight@film-lab.org.

About “Hearts Suspended”

“Hearts Suspended,” is a short autobiographical documentary that brings to light the troubled world of thousands of immigrant women in the United States on dependent spouse (H4) visas. Educated and once financially independent, these women, are in the country legally but are denied the ability to work, resulting in loneliness, depression,identity crisis, strained marital relations and, in extreme cases, exploitation and abuse.“Hearts Suspended” has traveled festivals and universities around the world, aired on National Television in India, featured on NPR’s “Here and Now” show, POV’s “To The Contrary,” CUNY Television, and the Washington Post.1 This exposure, combined with social media outreach, has given an impetus to this once unspoken issue and more affected women are speaking up in the South Asian community. The issue also affects a large number of women from China, Southeast Asia and some parts of Europe. For more details, please visit www.Facebook.com/AAFilmLab (https://www.facebook.com/events/255171294573650/).

About Asian American Film Lab

The Asian American Film Lab (AsAmFilmLab) began as collaborative of New Yorkbased filmmakers whose goals are to hone their craft and to share their knowledge, experience and resources. The membership has grown to comprise entertainment professionals of all types, artists and other talented individuals who all share the common goal of creating great film and promoting filmmakers of color and promoting and supporting gender and ethnic diversity in film and television, with an emphasis on the visibility of Asian American stories and characters in film and television. AsAmFilmLab’s programming includes screenwriting workshops, table reads, screenings and seminars with industry professionals, social networking events, and filmmaking competitions including the annual 72 Hour Film Shootout. This annual competition, hosted by Asian CineVision and the Asian American International Film Festival, has inspired hundreds of filmmakers by helping nascent talent take brave steps towards a filmmaking career. 2012 judges included Russell Simmons, Marci Phillips, Teddy Zee, Eric Lin, Brian Yang, James Kyson, and Michelle Krusiec.

The Asian American Film Lab is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization. Membership and all contributions are tax-deductible to the fullest extent of the law. http://www.asianamericanfilmlab

Review: My Girl Does E, and She Won't Have Sex With Me!!!!

2012-08-26T21:56:00.001-07:00

This is a hilarious video starring Josh Mitchell. Mitchell raps and sings about his frustrations about being involved with a hot girl whose addiction has completely replaced her sex drive, as she only wants the drug ecstasy, not ecstasy from sex with Mitchell. This is the best video I've seen on YouTube in AGES!

My New Film Many Faces of Occupy Wall Street

2012-08-18T09:47:00.000-07:00

My new film, the Many Faces of Occupy Wall Street, is now available for purchase on Amazon. The Many Faces of Occupy Wall Street shows a number of different occupiers giving their perspectives on occupy. Some occupiers felt that occupy had helped them, while others spoke of internal occupy corruption and cover ups. Also shown are various protests in union square. Go to the Many Faces of Occupy Wall Street to purchase a copy! Updates on this, and my other two documentary films, will be posted on this blog. I will include the locations and times that my films are exhibited in film festivals.

Conservatives Hold Occupy the Truth Rally

2012-08-18T09:37:00.000-07:00

On August 18th, 2012, a number of conservative held a rally to expose the truth about occupy wall street. Speakers talked about various criminal acts in occupy wall street, including arson, vandalism, and rape. Speakers also spoke on the attempt of the mainstream media to surpress news critical of occupy. Prominent speakers were Michelle Malkin Andrew Marcus, Tony Katz (who was interviewed on Fox), and Dana Loesch. Michelle Malkin spoke out on what she termed corruption in the old media, particularly what she termed the demonization of conservatives or anyone who tells the truth from her perspective. She honored Andrew Breibart's contribution to political blogging and to new media.

2012-07-29T23:17:00.000-07:00

THE TOP TEN FILMS OF THE ASIAN AMERICAN FILM LAB’S 8TH ANNUAL 72 HOUR FILM SHOOTOUT ANNOUNCED

New York, NY – July 29, 2012 – The Asian American Film Lab (AAFilmLab) screened the top ten films of the Eighth Annual 72 Hour Film Shootout (“Shootout”), yesterday afternoon at the Asian American International Film Festival, under the auspices of and in collaboration with Asian CineVision. AAFilmLab’s first female president, Jennifer Betit Yen, began the ceremony by thanking the filmmakers and film fans for their support of ethnic and gender diversity in film. She explained, “[t]he 72 Hour Shootout is about empowerment. It enable filmmakers with the opportunity to seize 72 hours within which to tell virtually any story they want in virtually any way they can imagine. The filmmakers [who participated in the Shootout] took control over their own stories. They became independents instead of dependents, leaders instead of followers, creators instead of mainstream mimics. Every single one of them deserves accolades for stepping up to the plate and daring to tell their stories. In doing so, they said, ‘we are not ‘the other.’ We will not be marginalized. We will not be silenced.’”

The awards were as follows:

1) RiLL - Distance 2) Jong-IL - Maybe Baby* 3) ROMIX Productions - Doggie Style* 4) ColorTV - The Buy 5) Zen Station - The Test 6) OZ - BC 7) T.C.B.Y. - Jacob 8) Fluffy Bunny - Dealbreakers 9) Mintcheerios - Early Adopter 10) Spring Street Pictures - Evaluation

BEST ACTOR: Billy Zhang in ROMIX's Doggie Style BEST ACTRESS: Mallory Wu in ZEN STATION's The Test BEST CINEMATOGRAPHY: RiLL, Distance BEST DIRECTOR: OZ, BC BEST SCREENWRITING: COLOR TV, The Buy MOST ORIGINAL: DAYSIDE PRODUCTIONS, Fight for Love Game Show BEST EDITING: RiLL, Distance

The Shootout films can be viewed via the following link: http://www.aafilmlab.org/72hours/For_Your_Consideration

Password: shootout2012

Judges for the Shootout included Marci Phillips, executive director of casting at ABC Primetimes, Producer Teddy Zee, actors Brian Yang, Michelle Krusiec, acclaimed cinematographer Eric Lin, and Russell Simmons, named by Forbes Magazine as one of “Hollywood’s Most Influential Celebrities” and, by USA Today, as one of the “Top 25 Most Influential People of the Past 25 Years,” calling him a “hip-hop pioneer” for his groundbreaking vision.

The Shootout is a worldwide competition in which filmmaking teams are given a common theme at the start and then have 72 hours to write, shoot, edit, and complete short films up to five minutes in length. Teams compete for cash, prizes and the chance to have their films screened at film festivals, both nationally and internationally. The competition creates a valuable opportunity for Asian American filmmakers to demonstrate their talent, gain exposure in the entertainment industry and impact the visibility of Asian American stories and characters in film. One of the Shootout requirements is that at least one key production member (e.g., director, producer or writer) and a principal actor from each team must be of Asian descent. Registration is available on-line at www.aafilmlab.org/72hours until June 15, 2012.

Upcoming Film Lab Events Workshop of Gordon Mathieson Screenplay (Sept. 6) Gordon’s adapted film script THE COLOR of ICE will be hosted by the Asian American Film Lab in New York City on September 6th ( http://www.gordonmathieson.com/Author_Bio.php ) Join us for our seminal Unfinished Works program, in which professional actors perform a table read and the audience is invited to workshop the script for the writer under the direction of Film Lab management team member, Jean Goto, who will be utilizing the Liz Lerman Technique. The reading will take place at the Azure Lounge, 333 E 91 Street, New York City, and will be free to attend. Please RSVP to jean@aafilmlab.org. Gordon Mathieson writes with passion, intrigue and, most importantly, a spirit of greater understanding between the Asian and non-Asian communities. The driving force behind The Color of Ice, his latest tale, was and is to highlight Chinese and Chinese American characters in contemporary, non-traditional or stereotypical roles. He also visualizes this novel as a film. Quite simply, Mathieson believes this novel has screen potential for showcasing Asian American actors in a new and fresh way previously unseen either in prose or film format. It is an opportunity for young, talented Asian American actors to delve into roles previously deemed commercially and aesthetically uninspiring and often relegated to a producer’s slush pile. Mathieson hopes to change all that, and with only 5 main characters in the story—4 Asian and 1 American. He also hopes Hollywood will take notice. A prolific writer, Mathieson is preparing to launch his next literary project in the young adult genre: The Becky Bing mystery series Hook Island and Summer Games. Each will feature Becky Bing, a 16-year-old Chinese American. She is a “modern-day Nancy Drew” stumbling across serious crimes she must solve on her own. Becky, a high school junior, is smart, confident, edgy, feisty but also compassionate. As with The Color of Ice, the Becky Bing series emphasizes the Chinese culture and Chinese language where appropriate; educating and enlightening readers about Asian Americans embedded in a good story.

Screening of Meghna Damani Film (Oct. 25) On October 25, from 6-9pm, MOCA will host a Film Lab screening of Meghna Damani’s documentary, Hearts Suspended, the untold story of legal US immigrant spouses who are denied the basic human right to work. Every year, thousands of women immigrate to the US legally on H4 or dependent spouse visas that deny them work authorization. Hearts Suspended a short autobiographical documentary reveals the untold story of highly educated South Asian immigrant women, who struggle to survive having been denied the basic right to work. Once independent, now completely dependent, they face loneliness, depression, loss of self-identity, strained marital relations and - in extreme cases - exploitation and abuse. Through a unique expressionistic combination of visuals, monologue, verite footage and interviews, the film takes us on a journey into the director inner turmoil’s, search for spiritual strength and eventual resolve to bring hope and political change for other women who are simply suspended in time. Festival History- “Special Jury Mention” at Jeevika Film Festival ‘08, New Delhi - Featured on NPR “Here and Now” Show with Robin Young (http://www.hereandnow.org/shows/2009/04/rundown-414-2/) - Official Selection for Mahindra IAAC Film Festival, Nov 7-11 2007, New York (http://www.miaac.us) - Opening night film for Ainaa Film Festival, March 28-30 2008, Seattle (http://www.tasveer.org) - Semi-Finalist for Migrations online film festival Sept-Dec 2008 - Official Selection for Migrations Film Festival, Montreal Sept 19th 2008 - Official Selection for Calgary International Film Festival.

About Asian American Film Lab

The Asian American Film Lab (AAFilmLab) began as collaborative of New York-based filmmakers whose goals are to hone their craft and to share their knowledge, experience and resources. The membership has grown to comprise professionals, artists and other talented individuals who all share the common goal of creating great film and promoting Asian American filmmakers and the visibility of their stories and characters in film and television.

AAFilmLab’s programming includes filmmaking workshops with industry professionals, screenwriting contests, and film competitions including the annual 72 Hour Film Shootout. This annual competition, now in its fifth year, has inspired hundreds of filmmakers by helping nascent talent take brave steps towards a filmmaking career.

Asian American Film Lab is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization. Membership and all contributions are tax-deductible to the fullest extent of the law.

http://www.aafilmlab.org info@aafilmlab.org

About Asian CineVision (ACV) and the Asian American International Film Festival (AAIFF)

Asian CineVision, Inc is a not-for-profit national media arts organization committed to the development, exhibition, promotion and preservation of film and video by artists of Asian descent. Founded in 1975 ACV continues to serve the Asian American media arts community by promoting the works of Asian independent and Asian American filmmakers to the broadest possible audiences, providing a window to the diverse experiences of the Asian Diaspora.

Founded in 1978, AAIFF is the first and longest running festival in the U.S. to exhibit the film and video work by media artists of Asian descent and about the Asian American experience. Now in its 35th year AAIFF continues to be a leading showcase for Asian American and Asian independent film and video. For more information about ACV and AAIFF visit: www.asiancinevision.org

Music Video View Review Cold Wind Blowing

2012-07-24T00:24:00.002-07:00

Daniel Schamroth's new song, Cold Wind Blowing is a song full of powerful, yet lonely emotion. Its lyrics suggest cold contemplation. Schamroth does an excellent job with his vocals and guitar. The rest of the music in the song is equally superb. The music has a strong folks music appeal.

The images of a home in an isolated rural background totally match the theme of the song. As does the black and white photography of said video.

The Mystery of Sage and His Banishment from Occupy Wall Street

2012-07-06T10:12:00.002-07:00

Occupy Wall Street has apparently kicked Sage out. A number of bizzare allegations have come up. Sage allegedly works for a mysterious wealthy Arab from the Gulf Coast named Hazem Sayed. He is accused of promoting a social media platform that makes it very easy to track users via geolocation. An article on Pastebin has more info.

Now I'm not going to even try to figure out who did what. Its largely irrelevant. If all Sage is accused of is true, quite clearly this points to serious flaws within OWS. Anyone can come off the street and be a member. Unfortunately, if you don't screen people that you want to join your organization or movement, you cannot be surprised when you have problems with the behavior of some people. Occupy Wall Street has fallen apart and nearly entirely disappeared for a number of reasons. I think Sage is just being SCAPEGOATED for the collapse of OWS.

There was no attempt to remove Sage from Occupy for disruptive behaviors last fall. There was an attempt to remove him for fighting at the GA, but that was blocked. He's advocated Vibe for awhile. Now that OWS has poor turn out on the 4th of July, somehow its all Sage's fault?

Arun Gupta spoke to Sage at the national gathering. As Mr. Gupta states:

"It's unfair to blame Sage, who claims he was "born in a mental hospital". Virtually every occupation was beset by the same types, though New York seemed to have a surplus. Nonetheless, one seasoned Occupy organizer, by way of the Middle East, does blame the wayward behavior of a minority for "destroying Occupy as a functioning entity". He claims after the eviction of the Zuccotti Park occupation last November, there would be meetings of up to 300 people groping for a path going forward, but constant disruptions would "suck the energy out of the room".

I was personally there at those meetings. When I made the suggestion that perhaps only certain people proven to be sane be allowed to attend those meetings, I was told that wasn't the occupy way as occupy had to include everyone. Unfortunately, if you include disruptive people, you exclude everyone else who was serious about business. So its not at all the fault of the disruptors, if they did suck the energy out of the room. Its the fault of the rest of occupy for even tolerating them. Its the fault of occupy for not even doing a background check on these people, to ascertain who they really were and what agendas they really might have. And its the fault of occupy for trying to take on the role of mental hospital. OWS wasn't full of licensed psychiatrist, so if there were troubled people in OWS, they should have been referred to social services or mental hospitals. But now, occupy wanted to include everyone, and unfortunately has suffered consequences for it.

With that said, what's done is done. Moving forward, activists would be advised to take what they can learn from the failures of OWS, and not repeat them in future movements.

In a huge victory for Obama, Supreme Court Allows Healthcare Law to Stand

2012-06-28T11:11:00.000-07:00

In a huge political victory for President Obama, the Supreme Court allowed most provisions of the Healthcare Law to Stand. The federal government was limited in how much it could force the states to expand medicaid. As John H. Cushman, Jr. of the New York Times reports:

"In a complex decision, the court found that Congress’ powers to regulate commerce did not justify the mandate. But it reasoned that the penalty, to be collected by the Internal Revenue Service starting in 2015, is a tax and is not unconstitutional.

Chief Justice Roberts, in the majority, said that the mandate was unconstitutional under the Constitution’s commerce clause. But that did not matter if the penalty that enforces it was constitutional on other grounds.

Those who elect not to buy the private insurance will pay a fine, to be collected by the IRS. This will presumably go fund medicaid and medicare. Its been a surprise that Chief Justice Roberts split with the conservatives and joined the 4 liberal justices in this ruling, for reasons described above. This ends the US status as the only major industrialized nation with a large number of uninsured people.

Model Trisha Paytas Conquers Youtube

2012-06-27T23:32:00.000-07:00

Trisha Paytas is a new generation of internet celebrity. The internet has allowed content to be placed without being screened by gatekeepers. So the public sees more of what entertainers are like.

Ms. Paytas has made emotional videos about her past career as a stripper, and now that negatively effected her emotionally and physically. She talks about her struggles in life, her poor decisions, and other issues in ways that make her more more real than the manufactured image of many celebrities. Her conquest of her problems give her a platform to advise and help others, which she does in her Ask Trisha series.

The current generation of youtube stars, like Trisha, Chris Crocker, Jayinreality, among others, often use common sense in their commentary videos. Typically issues are discussed and dealt with a simple, straight forward way. Its quite refreshing in an era which has television experts that seek to drown us in the latest important sounding techno babble.

Sherry Vine is another interesting Youtube star. Ms. Vine is a drag performer. Drag performers were historically limited to performing in gay bars in the biggest cities. Yet the internet has allowed Ms. Vine to reach mass audiences. She has nearly 10 million views. The internet has allowed a form of entertainment, drag, that was once very marginalized and rejected by the mainstream media, to reach large numbers of people who don't frequent gay bars or live in large cities.

Many of these stars are getting offers due to the large fan bases. Chris Crocker already has an HBO series, sells music via ITunes, and has other projects. Trisha has gotten offers due to her fan base as well. Crocker and Paytas, pre internet, may very well have been dismissed by the prejudices of the "gatekeepers." But they came of a generation where all you had to do is put your work out there, and let the public judge. And the public judged them favorably. It will be interesting to see how internet stars affect the entertainment industry in the future.

Music Review: What Money Wants, Money Gets

2012-06-27T02:47:00.000-07:00

What Money Wants, Money Gets is a fun dance beat sung by Holly T. The basic theme is the song is self explanatory, What Money Wants, Money Gets. This song is a modern version of the songs Diamonds Are a Girl's Best Friend (Marilyn Monroe) and Diamonds are Forever (Shirley Bassey). Its also much more suited to the club scene, or to a summer vacation or hot spot that the previous materialism songs. Its got a faster beat, and the music just inspires you to dance or have fun. This is music one should definitely check out, keep looking at Holly T's page for updates on her shows and her music video releases.

Patrik Ian Polk's New Movie the Skinny

2012-06-26T23:35:00.000-07:00

The Skinny The Skinny is the latest film by Patrik Ian Polk, the creator of Noah’s arc. Mr. Polk continues his stories about love and life of gay black men. The interesting thing about Mr. Polk’s work is that black gay characters were almost entirely unseen in media portrayals of gay men. The typical media portrayal of gay men is typically that of a white male, and gays of other groups are usually severely underrepresented.

So Polk, a man who worked on a number of other productions, came into his own by writing about gay black men (Polk is one himself). The importance of this is that Polk’s breaking ground helps open the doors for other types of people who aren’t white or straight in Hollywood. There had historically been few opportunities in Hollywood for people who weren’t the right sexuality, especially if they weren’t the right color. Polk’s projects help address this indirectly by giving gay men of color a foot in the door, as once you get recognized for work it becomes easier to get additional work.

The Skinny is coming out as an independent movie to select theatres around the country. Go to its website at http://www.skinnythemovie.com/home/# and contact the team at info@skinnythemovie.com for info on how to bring the skinny to your town, if it isn’t already available there.

Music Video Review: Nigga Ain't No Good

2012-06-26T18:37:00.000-07:00

Nigga Ain't No Good is a Music Video. It's Mark Morrison first single in 6 years. Morrison sings about a woman in an abusive relationship. The actors in the video superbly portray a couple in conflict, with a dominating, controlling man. Her friends urge her, as does Morrison through his lyrics, to leave for good. When she's with her female friends, again, they strongly urge her to leave him for good. This scene is packed with a lot of emotion.

Its was surprisingly good to hear a singer touch on something like domestic violence, in such a straight forward manner. Partially because though there are artists who thrive off controversy, there are also artists who play it safe by not being confrontational or speaking out on what's right. Nice to see Morrison speak out, or rather sing out on what's right and for him to do such a good job.

Supreme Court Strikes Down Parts of Anti Immigration Law

2012-06-25T20:14:00.000-07:00

According to the New York Times, Supreme Court found much of Arizona's anti illegal immigrant law unconstitutional. Provisions that would have required people to carry their papers at all time have been struck down. Most parts of the law that conflicted with the federal government were struck down. The only part allowed to stand is that Arizona police are allowed to check the immigration status of those that they detain. They are not allowed to racially profile people, or just assume illegal status by the way someone looks or sounds. Several other states, including Alabama, Georgia, and Utah have anti immigration laws that are also being challenged by the courts.

More Hotels Coming to Fire Island Pines

2012-06-25T06:32:00.001-07:00

Late last year, the downtown area of the pines tragically burned down. Of course, with the Pines being such a popular resort area, plans on rebuilding were immediately discussed. These plans have materialized in a form that includes many more hotels rooms, restaurant space, as well as revamped club space, according to Marketdate. As Marketdate reports:

"An anonymous source slipped markatlarge renderings of what the future of the harbor area might look like and it’s quite impressive. Everything from a restaurant hanging over the boardwalk to increased hotel space with some rooms levitating over the pool. Is it for real? Will the investors pony up the money? Who knows? But take a look at what Fire Island’s future might be:"

As the downtown area is the first place you touch as you get off the ferry, its the perfect place for more hotel rooms. As for the restaurant, again, this is the perfect place. There should be no problem in attracting investment for these plans. The Pines will soon be back bigger and better than before.

Belvedere Guest House's Upcoming Fire Island Events

2012-06-24T18:21:00.000-07:00

If one goes to Fire Island any time from March to Oct. one might wish to check out Belvedere Guest House, a bay front guest house. Belvedere is a very relaxing, Victorian like guest house complete with a pool, jacuzzi, gym, and wireless interest service for its guests. Weekends continental breakfast is served. Belvedere is a men only, clothing option guest house in the heart of one of fire island's gay communities, Cherry Grove. Its a short distance from the Ferry, and near a number of restaurants and bars. And of course anywhere on fire island is close to the beach. Its a very relaxing, quiet guest house on a very beautiful island. Its the perfect escape from the madness of NYC.

Belvedere has several upcoming events this summer. Once a month Daniel Nardicio, in conjunction with Absolute Vodka throws a poolside party at the Belvedere.

Sept. 9th, there's a nude Mr. Belvedere contest at Belvedere. Prizes have yet to be determined.

Review: Avengers Versus X-Men 6/Uncanny X-Men 14

2012-06-21T23:25:00.001-07:00

Some major developments. Cyclops and the rest of the Phoenix 5 have created utopia on earth. Yet they have not shattered the spell Wanda cast on mutants and restored mutation to earth. So instead of the restoring the natural rate of evolution, they advance other things on earth to the end of evolution. Xavier senses this is wrong, as does the Scarlet Witch. The Avengers decide to capture Hope to learn more about the Phoenix, hoping they can destroy it. Only they get badly beaten by Cyclops and Emma Frost. The Scarlet Witch comes in and gets the Avengers. She isn't on their side, but she acts because she saw a vision of the Phoenix destroying them. So finally Wanda intercedes. Wanda's presence somehow affected Cyclops and Emma Frost. Cyclops, now power mad, decides to destroy the Avengers. Hope decides to go off with Wanda. Wanda takes her away, immediately empathizing with her. Neither Cap nor Cyclops look good in this series.

Hope also realizes that Cyclops and the rest of the Phoenix 5 are misusing the Phoenix. Cyclops ego has gotten the better off him he tells Hope she was just a child, and would have been unable to do anything with it. But she is still connected to it, and still feels its call.

In Uncanny X-Men 14, Sinister reveals he had a hand in the creation of Hope. He somehow saw the future. He knew the Avengers would get to Hope, and that the Phoenix would move into 5 inferior hosts. But he had a plan. As he always missed Madelyne, he created 6 new clones of Jean Grey. When Cyclops comes for him, he intends for the Jean clones to reclaim the Phoenix force.