Celebrating the 43rd Annual Asian American International Film Festival

This fall, we warmly welcome back the 43rd Asian American International Film Festival, the first and longest running Asian American film festival in the country. Organized by Asian CineVision, this year's fully virtual festival includes 17 feature film screenings, 14 short film blocks, and over 16 workshops, masterclasses, and special events.

This year's feature films, shorts, and workshops presented in association with Asia Society include three features examining everything from the perils (and perks) of viral fame to love at any age and the complex relationships between families and spelling bees; short film blocks covering the queer experience and the quietness in moments that create portraits of family, places, and connections; and a two-part workshop on how to be anti-racist in storytelling.

In hopes of jump-starting her stalled writing career, novelist Maki moves to a new apartment. Her problems start with her noisy neighbor constantly interrupting her concentration. As annoyance turns into white-hot rage, Maki finds herself newly inspired. MRS. NOISY explores the blurred lines between private and public perception when art imitates life.

In TWILIGHT'S KISS (SUK SUK), two men in their twilight years have spent their entire lives in the close,  but their brief initial encounter unleashes long suppressed desires. As both men recount and recall their personal histories, they also contemplate a possible future together. 

As a child, Monica Chowdry won the Scripps National Spelling Bee. But things haven't quite worked out since then. She lives at home, taking care of her elderly mother. When her brother returns, ostensibly to help the family prepare for the burial of their father, tensions return and secrets are revealed. Can the siblings set aside their differences, or will resentment tear this family apart?

Two short film presentations feature queer Asian storytelling and expression, and moments that create portraits of family, places, and connections. Asia Society in association with Asian CineVision will also present a two-part workshop on anti-racism in storytelling. Part one of the workshop focuses on how race-based arts organizations can be anti-racist in their storytelling, how to get involved in activism, and how to be better advocates for the Black community. Part two of the workshop will build on the learnings from part one, and will discuss how activism and storytelling develop in new media and online platforms.

All the films are available virtually to rent through Asian CineVision's site. Please consult the guide How To Festival for step-by-step instructions. The workshops on anti-racism in storytelling and anti-racist online activism will be streamed through Asian CineVision's Facebook page and Twitch channel.