On February 13, 2024, Asia Society Northern California co-hosted a screening of the Oscar-nominated documentary short film Nǎi Nai & Wài Pó in San Francisco. Director Sean Wang joined Masashi Niwano, Creative Director of SFFilm, for a moving discussion about the short. In the discussion, Wang recounted his experience creating the film featuring his grandmothers during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. Living during the re-emergence of anti-Asian hate, Wang narrated his experience capturing his grandmothers’ joy and humor through film, while also speaking to how they navigate life’s harder moments. Wang concluded the screening by answering audience questions about his creative journey as an up-and-coming filmmaker and his heart-warming relationship with his grandmothers.

Sean Wang and his grandmothers celebrated their Oscar nomination at the 96th Academy Awards on March 10, 2024. Nǎi Nai & Wài Pó is now available for streaming on Disney+. 

Asia Society Northern California also interview Sean Wang at 2024 Sundance Film Festival - click here to view videos and photos!