2008 Austin Asian American Film Festival

The 2008 Austin Asian American Film Festival will be held on October 9-12th, 2008 at the Alamo Drafthouse. We are proud to screen over 40 films (all premiers) from all around the globe! Aside from screenings, we have a fantastic Opening Night Party at Arthouse Museum, a rowdy multimedia concert at Club de Ville, and a captivating discussion panel at the University of Texas. This year, with China being a huge force in world news, they are focusing on Chinese and Chinese American cinema. With over a dozen special guest appearances and lively events planned every night, this year!s festival is going to be the best yet.

2008 Festival Highlights:
- Opening Night Film: Hollywood Chinese (Texas Premiere)
Hollywood Chinese, currently in New York theatres, traces and examines the last 100 years of Hollywood from a Chinese American point of view. Featuring interviews with over 25 Asian American cinematic icons, this film delves into hidden and overt racism in Hollywood but also celebrates the filmmakers and actors who have helped shape the industry. Acclaimed filmmaker, Arthur Dong will be in attendance!

- Closing Night Film: Still Life (Texas Premiere)
Winner of the prestigious Silver Lion!s award, Still Life, with legendary Chinese filmmaker, Jia Zhangke, is a masterpiece based on the famous incident of the destruction of the three gorge dam. As two strangers look for their lost loves in a mall village haunted by memories and happiness, the village prepares to be once again flooded. They are incredibly proud to bring this amazing film to Austin.

- Tribute to Vincent Chin
October 10th, 5:30pm
On June 19th, 1982, Vincent Chin, mistaken for being Japanese, was brutally murdered by two white auto-workers (who blamed Asians for stealing their jobs). This defining moment opened the eyes of the Asian American community to the injustice of racist attitudes and the importance of standing up for equal rights. Two films will be screened exploring the Vincent Chin incident and why it is imperative to keep the story alive. They are excited to bring the two filmmakers to Austin: Academy Award nominated Christine Choy (Who Killed Vincent Chin?) and Curtis Chin (Vincent Who?)!

Buy ticket to the 2008 Austin Asian American Film Festival here.

2008 Austin Asian American Film Festival Trailer