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05/16/2024: On The Topic Of A.I. It is becoming a relevant topic in reality, and is also being used as material for Youtubers / content creators as well as in film. The latest - "Atlas". Simu Liu plays an A.I. with a mission to exterminate humanity. You can say, the new Terminator. Once I watch this, a review should be forthcoming. The message of distrusting technology or machines, is something anyone can relate. Would you step into an automated or self-driven car or taxi? Hell no. There is a thing called "malfunction" and it can happen to any piece of technology. At the same time, we use technology to our advantage. The most prominent films in the past about A.I. - the classic "2001: A Space Odyssey" and of course, "The Terminator". Of course, you have the benevolent or humane A.I. such as Justin H. Min in "After Yang". Simu Liu has been in movie after movie after movie, etc. Simu is most likely the most successful Asian out there right now. I couldn't be happier for his success. I just found about "Arthur The King". A lot of his films are not self-promoted however, so I might never hear of them. 04/06/2024: Bad Grandpa Says, "Make It Special, Again" With "Sweet Dreams" haha Here's the trailer. If you haven't seen Bobby Lee in a movie (not since the Harold & Kumar trilogy), then here's the new film trailer for "Sweet Dreams". I'm already hearing Bizet's Carmen music throughout the trailer already haha. And that's the 'Action Point': 04/03/2024: "Barbie" and "Fast X" I'm late to the party watching these, as they were last year's films. However - found time to watch them. "Barbie" was an atypical toy movie. You'd think it would be an adventure / action film with Barbie toy characters coming to life. It was more than that. It had messages, it was about identity. It was finding out the differences of being human and being a toy. It was a musical dramedy. I'm not surprised it was a global hit. How do you act like a toy. It is not easy (kind of stiff or wooden), thus it would not have been taken seriously I'd reckon. In the end - everyone's a Barbie. Everyone's a Ken. The world has changed. And it is still changing / evolving. As long as you are not stuck in the old, prejudiced ways of thinking. "Fast X" was a cartoonish film that felt more like an MCU film than a typical "Fast & Furious" action movie. Sure - the series has changed into something unrealistic or unbelievably silly, popcorn-eating type movie (while I enjoyed F9, I felt going into space was too much). Was there any saving grace to this. If anything - it did have a lot of car action. Car racing action. However, driving down a near-vertical dam (the laws of physics don't seem to apply), and lifting a car with one arm just screamed a cartoonish MCU film (Shang-Chi 2 should save the genre back to respectability). Perhaps this is the new style to end the series. I think the intention was to go overboard, as long as audiences are still captivated by the characters and their interactions. Now that most have seen it - the ending seemed dire. Everyone appeared dead - with the dam about to explode. FX Part II, whenever that is. "Barbie" gets 3 stars. "Fast X" just 2. 02/18/2024: New filmmaker sensation could just be Sean Wang. I just found about this youngster pertaining to Sundance and Oscar news. I need to find out more about "Nai Nai and Wai Po" - the recently Oscar-nominated short doc. I think I briefly heard about "Didi", and I need to find out more about it however. Sean Wang is so young, I could be his grandpa literally. He's younger than Sungwon Cho. While Asian films turning heads and even winning at Sundance certainly elevates them, there are still tons of gems at AA film festivals. AAIFF46 2023 film trailers - a lot of interesting films. My selections: "The Stranger", "The Absence of Memory" and "Starring Jerry As Himself". I need to find more Asian-American film festivals or sites - any that uploads regularly or on a situational basis. Hoping for AAIFF47 at some point this year. 02/05/2024: Get Yer "Yolo" On In the past two years, the only film that I really looked forward to watching was "Everything Everywhere All At Once". And now - the "Yolo" trailer might be the next "Film Of The Year". I might not be as heavy or hefty as the central character trying to "Get-In Shape", but I certainly can identify with slouching, gaming and eating hahaha: 
01/31/2024: I am looking forward to hearing more about the new project with Randall Park and Jordan Peele. Both are known for comedy, but I believe they are capable of dramas as well. Randall Park made his directorial debut in "Shortcomings", and Jordan Peele has been directing since "Key & Peele" ended years ago (wish there was a reunion of some sort). In the meantime, Peele's latest film "Nope" is his most recent I believe. Steven Yeun had a guest role in it. 01/10/2024: Daniel Dae To Broadway Daniel Dae Kim can be seen in the upcoming "Avatar: The Last Airbender", and the upcoming production of "Butterfly" (which might take awhile, since casting hasn't been finalized / nor a script probably). Still - since most of the worthwhile stuff to watch are not films, I'll update this page for any meaningful projects that might be film-quality or film-like. I heard Daniel Dae Kim is returning to Broadway in David Henry Hwang's (a playwright) play called "Yellow Face", a social commentary about white-washing (in particular, DHH's observation about the white-washing of the "Miss Saigon" play back in the day). How pitiful. DDK is no stranger to plays - he can be seen in "The King & I". Not sure when that was, but I heard rave reviews. 12/22/2023: The Year In Review It has been a lackluster year for films, nothing really noteworthy. "Barbie" is probably the biggest thing so far, next to "Fast X" (I even forgot when that came out - I think during early summer). I heard "Barbie" was a global success - I have yet to see it. The identity crisis of "Who Is A Ken", appears to be one of the central plot points (as well as other storylines or drama), interweaved in the Barbie fantasy / toy world. Not to mention the Ryan / Simu real-life conflict or drama, which Simu seems to deny vehemently. Also - Ryan's newfound "Ego" that resulted. haha. My attention was more toward Asian-American films. "Shortcomings" is still on the must-see list, as well as Dustin Nguyen's "The Accidental Getaway Driver" (if that is ever available on VOD). With all the strikes going on for the later part of the year, I completely forgot about movies (What was a 'movie' again? What does that word mean again?). Whatever - onto next year. I'm sure at least the Asian-American ones I'll eventually remember. 09/21/2023: A Whole Lotta "Shakin'" Goin' On With Sung Kang's "Shaky Shivers" Check out "Shaky Shivers" when it releases in theaters for one day only. If you enjoy / believe in practical effects (and campy horror / comedy back in the '80s), this might be the film for you. Film festivals can showcase certain gems, and this appears to be one of them. Kudos for Sung Kang for his directorial debut. I'm looking forward to his next directing project pertaining his family upbringing. 09/16/2023: Ken Jeong's "A Great Divide" I'm intrigued about this. The subject matter however, is about Anti-Asian hate, and is quite sensitive or can have adverse effects if you don't watch it with a level head. It's the same thing with Steven Yeun's "Beef". The subject matter and how it's presented in the show, would probably have adverse effects on how I think, so I opted not to watch it. There are Dashcam Lessons clips to watch for any lessons in what not to do. Still - "A Great Divide" appears to have a 'great' story and most likely great acting / directing. I think I'll still add "A Great Divide" to my must-watch list eventually, even though there might be some misgivings. If not for the story, and is about the Asian-American experience. 07/15/2023: "Strike" First, "Strike" Hard, No Mercy Sir! Well - not exactly the mantra for the SAG and the Writer's Guild currently on strike. But they are on "strike". I'm in no position to make any judgments - I have no idea what is going on, nor do I give a rat's ass. The industry's products have been crap-tastic to begin with - it just puts a stop or halt to all the garbage / crap that the entertainment industry have been producing. For me - there's "Far East Films" and Youtube content creators at least. The downside of it all, is that I won't get to hear or watch any new Asian-American films or Asian-American actors in new projects. Since I consider most in the industry as "spoiled" and "prejudiced", I have no sympathy at all for what is going on. Supporting my Asian-Americans is the only thing makes it all worthwhile. 06/14/2023: Randall Park's "Shortcomings" trailer released, and it's a must-see for me. Most likely will have to rent it when it is available on VOD. Here is the trailer from Sony Pictures Classic (or go their Youtube): 06/13/2023: "Ghostbusters" Nostalgia I think "Ghostbusters: Afterlife" is officially the Ghostbusters III that fans were expecting. I didn't watch it yet, since I forgot about this for awhile. It released over a year ago. There have been a few nostalgic revivals - Cobra Kai with the OG Karate Kid actors from the trilogy, the new Top Gun sequel, and also among them - the OG Ghostbusters from the first movie. Except the Staypuft Marshmellow Men are miniatures this time haha. Still fat - could this be a reflection of a Bobby Lee I guess haha. A Ghost Egon was the highlight. Clip below: We might have to rent Fast X on-demand - no time for theaters. 05/10/2023: "Shortcomings" Panel At Sundance Preach on, Randall Park. Preach on. Randall Park's "Shortcomings" is a must-see (whenever or where ever available). It has that "Always Be My Maybe" vibe or atmosphere - but a different slice of life story. Asian-American characters have every right to be flawed, ordinary and even mediocre. We are no longer the "model minority" stereotype (better yet, we never were) or whatever "we have to be this way" stereotype society or Non-Asians view us. Human beings are flawed in nature. Talent-wise, Asians might be God-like haha. But in every other aspects (emotionally, intellectually or personality-wise) , we are just as flawed or more flawed. As they say - "To Err Is Human". The iconic Asian-American film - Justin Lin's "Better Luck Tomorrow" is our benchmark - the standard in Asian-American filmmaking or story-telling. This is what makes Asian-American films more compelling and interesting than ever, since they "humanize" us. Unfortunately, there is still a long ways to go in dispelling the crap that only good Asian-American stories have to adhere to certain stereotypes. If anything - isn't all racial stereotypes racist and offensive to begin with. 05/02/2023: AAPI Heritage Month: Asian-American Films It's that time of year to celebrate (although it's a celebration worth everyday celebrating). If you are at a loss of which Asian-American films to watch, here is a letterbox fan site (the person updates it): A lot of them are part of my favorites - although all of them should be deemed worthwhile to watch. The list however, is missing "Harold & Kumar Go To White Castle", John Cho in "Don't Make Me Go", and Jimmy O. Yang in "Love Hard". Although they might not be considered strictly AA films. 04/20/2023: New Fast X Trailer Once I found out that the main villain is related to the villain from "Fast Five", it piqued my interest a bit more. Other than Han having some action scenes / sequences. The over-the-top action and car sequences have characterized the Fast franchise since Fast Five. And the theme of family. And adding more family. And turning bad guys into supposedly "good" guys haha. In Fast 9, it was going into space. In Fast X, it appears driving down a dam wall trying to out-run the explosion. In reality, the near-vertical angle (with gravity pulling down) would have back-flipped the car immediately haha. Unless the car had magnets on its tires (most likely so - since magnets were used in Fast 9). Speaking of past villains, it was never possible to see the return of Carter Varone or Takashi (villains from 2 Fast 2 Furious and Tokyo Drift respectively - the most entertaining of the bunch in my opinion). Simply because Dom was not in these movies haha. The "Justice For Jimmy" would not have been possible as well. Here is the blockbuster trailer: 04/10/2023: Simu Liu: Singer, Dancer, Superhero and now a Ken Doll / Model haha
03/18/2023: Fast X: "The End Of The Road", Begins
03/14/2023: Hey, Kimmel - What About 'Pauly'? haha While Pauly Shore might have come out of hiding to congratulate Branden Fraser and Ke Huy Quan, the "Encino Man" co-star or "The Weasel" might have been more realistically thinking: "Hey, buuuuuuddddy - what about me?" haha. This is from a guy who during a Scissor Bros. podcast episode asked; "So when is Dunkin' Donuts open?" hahaha. Jimmy's retort: "Perhaps we'll have to re-boot Bio-Dome" hahaha. Aside from "EEAAO" being the obvious choice for Best Picture (and deservedly so) - if there was a runner-up for me, it would have been "The Whale". I haven't seen it nor do I know anything about it - except it might be about a fat guy. But there have been rave reviews about it. That is all. 03/12/2023: An Oscar Celebration For "Everything Everywhere All At Once" Congratulations to "EEAAO" for winning 7 Academy Awards from what I hear. Aside from the actors - best picture, best director and best original screenplay. I'm particularly happy for Ke Huy Quan, just as everyone else is. By now, we all know Ke's story (if you want to call it a comeback story, go ahead. It's probably a combination of a comeback / underdog story. Either way, he's been an inspiration). Harrison Ford and Ke Huy Quan re-uniting and hugging one last time, was heaven-sent. Recall the scene from "Temple of Doom" of Indy and Short Round hugging it out. "EEAAO" was an extraordinary film - bold and daring with messages that anyone can relate. Let's face it, all movies are going to have some kind of hate or haters. They are like the emperor from "Amadeus", with the "Too Many Notes" ignorance to Mozart's music or masterpiece. They couldn't possibly comprehend. More thoughts or similar thoughts on my Reflections & Thoughts. 03/05/2023: The most recent update from Justin Lin is that he'll be involved with something called "Galaxy Eggs". I don't know if that's a movie or a show. Sounds like it's a bit of Sci-Fi with Fantasy. I would like to hear from Justin Lin's POV or Point Of View, and nobody elses. I don't think the entire story is told, because media tends to make issues completely one-sided. Either way, Justin Lin doesn't appear to give a rat's ass about it. I heard he left with a blank check to fill, and why not leave for better pastures. Back to his roots, and where I'm most interested in - independent films. Other than, Asian-American films. Unfortunately, there has been not been any news or rumors on any new Asian-American films this year (other than the ones listed below / not including shows): Dustin Nguyen, "The Accidental Getaway Driver" Randall Park, "Shortcomings" 03/02/2023: Get Ready For GDL While we eagerly wait for news on the sequel to "Shang-Chi" or Simu's further involvement in the MCU (my guess is the new "The Kang Dynasty" film, directed by Dustin Cretton as well). Simu Liu and Awkwafina to star opposite John Cena in a film titled "Grand Death Lotto". Should be interesting. Simu is one busy guy - already has "Barbie" (this summer) and "One True Loves" (April) this year. And other projects we have not yet heard. 03/01/2023: Fast 10 - Unsure And Uncertain New director, new script, new actors - it's usually a recipe of a "hell no". I was certain that Fast 9 was the final film for me, after Justin Lin left or quit. I wasn't even certain Sung Kang was going to be in Fast 10, until recent updates. I only know Sung was busy with car projects and other endorsement opportunities. Justin Lin was an integral part of reviving the franchise, and was part of making the franchise the money-making machine as it is. I don't know the whole story of the fallout or controversy of his departure (whether he quit or was fired). With more information on Fast 10, I might check out the trailer at most and go from there. 02/28/2023: We Know "Yan Can Cook", But "Chang Can Dunk"? hahah Gotta like underdog stories. Back in the day - Jeremy Lin was the ultimate underdog story, and "Linsanity" was the documentary that captivated / inspired all. I just found the trailer for "Chang Can Dunk" for Disney Plus. It's about a short Asian-American player (as long as the story is centered around an Asian-American, he can be as short as "Too Short" or whatever) who goes against the odds to accept the challenge of dunking a basketball. This is mainly a comedy - so it's not like it'll happen. There's probably other plotlines / stories as well - not just about basketball. I haven't seen an underdog story centered around an Asian-American since "Linsanity" and "Ping Pong Playa". Oh yeah - that Eddie Huang film. I was intrigued by that, but it isn't rentable or available on certain platforms. I like the title. We know famous chefs such as Martin Yan and his show "Yan Can Cook" or Ming Tsai's simply delicious of a show, "Simply Ming". Get ready for "Chang Can Dunk" haha. > 02/23/2023: Far East Films I've been visiting the Far East Films Youtube channel - film trailers from Asia. Since there isn't and hasn't been anything worthwhile watching, I've subbed to the channel - https://www.youtube.com/c/Fareastfilms. It also uploads trailers of movies from the past - "Best of the Best", etc. But I look forward to recent ones, whether it's in the genre of action, gangster, sci-fi or martial arts / comedy. > 02/12/2023: We 'CAAM' Do It The Center For Asian-American Media is one of a few AAPI media that has been consistently advocating / supporting Asian-American / Asian projects in film or other media. Here is new article from them: The Asian-American movement is a continuous fight. Most of the movement's successes is because of creatiing our own, simply because the industry is not doing it. We just have to pass this on to future generations in changing the narrative. Hopefully in a few hundred years (*sarcasm - should be in our lifetime), it'll become permanent. > 01/26/2023: What's Next For Ke Huy Quan? Be sure to watch "The Electric State", "ABC" (abbreviated), and "Loki" S2 (if you are subbed to the channel that is). I'm certain that this is just the beginning. It might be awhile before we hear anything about a new project. Let Ke bask in the spotlight right now - he probably needs a nice vacation. I prefer for Ke to let go of the past, and just move forward with new projects. While his iconic roles in the '80's were memorable and forever etched in the minds of fans, it is better for Ke's career if he moved forward with new projects that we never heard of. I don't expect any leading roles (although they would be nice), but certainly major, multi-dimensional roles. > 01/12/2023: Beginnings - The Spielberg / Quan Connection Ke Huy Quan was the story of the night - winning a Golden Globe for his exceptional performance in "Everything Everywhere All At Once". However - Ke's story or the so-called "comeback" or "career resurgence" story is one of controversy. First of all - it is not a "career resurgence" or a "comeback" when Ke never really had an acting "career" to begin with (thanks to the industry / hollywood's exclusion or racism against Asian actors at that time - only stereotyped roles might have been available). Secondly - it is the Asian-American creators for producing, writing, and their tireless efforts in bringing these projects to the screen (as well as independent / lesser known production companies who have supported these projects like A24, fan / organizational support, etc.). Anyway - onto another topic: The Steven Spielberg / Ke Huy Quan reunion. Ke is one to think or focus on the positive side of things. While hollywood or the film industry had excluded / discriminated against Asian male actors back in the '80's / '90s, Steven Spielberg did give Ke Huy Quan his break with two iconic films: "The Temple Of Doom" and "The Goonies". It would have been quite presumptious or unfair to have Spielberg continue to vouch or hire Ke in future films of his. It didn't work that way - it was the sign of the times. Steven focused on his career, and just went with the flow with the industry - you don't expect these guys to do any favors for Asian actors anyway. Ke is forever grateful to Spielberg for these opportunities (which turned out huge), and is fully aware about why he no longer received any offers or roles (and why had to quit). Almost all Asian actors have gone through this. However - Ke is not one to spew these realizations on a public stage like an awards show (unless it is on an Asian-American platform). Til this day, my favorite Spielberg films: "Jaws" and "Poltergeist". It is still a "work-in-progress". The problem of Asians "Not Looking The Part" (The Jeremy Lin Syndrome) still exists today unfortunately. Otherwise - Asian actors should be hired / considered regardless of role (characters should not be created as just an Asian character, but just a character - John Cho's character in "Don't Make Me Go" is an example). > 01/01/2023: Year In Review 2022 The only films I watched (I think) - was "Everything Everywhere All At Once" and "Don't Make Me Go" (a John Cho film). That is it. 2022 was an underwhelming year for films / movies for me. Nothing piqued my interest, except these two. There might have been one or two "Perhaps - If I Had Time" ones - Jordan Peele's "Nope", and Jo Koy's "Easter Sunday". "Everything Everywhere All At Once" is the surprise hit that has resonated with everyone. A very bold / daring, unique film that not only entertains, elicits laughs - it has a very relatable message: "Be The Best Version Of Yourself". Be the version that you are most happy with - even if it's a life that is not glamorous or might just be ordinary or plain. I'm not sure what's in store for 2023. "Barbie" is still a wait-and-see, once I find out more about it. Or if any other Simu Liu films are going to release this year. > 10/02/2022: Don't Make Me Go ***
> 07/18/2022: Everything Everywhere All At Once ****
> 06/08/2022: Watch John Cho in "Don't Make Me Go"
> 05/15/2022: With Asian-American Heritage Month in full swing, I'm always on the look-out for any new projects or articles about Asian-Americans. Here is an article: https://collider.com/harold-and-kumar-trilogy-asian-male-representation-why-its-good/ I consider "Better Luck Tomorrow" and "Harold & Kumar" series the benchmarks for all Asian-American films. I'll always be forever grateful for the Big 3 (Hurwitz / Schlossberg / Heald) for making that film. And what stuck out (according to Jon and Hayden's interview with "Rise"), they were adamant about No Accents with the Asian-American leads (the Bobby Lee off-set incident was a tragedy, but John Cho came to the rescue. Although I would have more than just fired that trash guy - would've deported his ass). And they completely turn stereotypes upside down for once, and make fun of them in a way. Anyway - If you are a fan of "The Karate Kid" trilogy, go watch "Cobra Kai". Their type of humor is littered in the 4 seasons of it, and nostalgia up the wazoo. 05/11/2022: The Legend Of James Hong ("Hong-Sanity"): 600+ Film Credits And Counting James Hong is perhaps the longest lasting, and longest working actor there is with over 600+ film credits (and still counting - with his latest being "Everything Everywhere All At Once"). It might be a stretch to compare it with the repertoire of Mozart's 600+ works, but that amount of films is still impressive (most of which I am not familiar with). Still - it is an achievement that is worth recognization or acknowledgement. So congratulations to the Walk Of Fame star - way overdue. Interestingly, there is a John Carpenter connection between James Hong and Jamie Lee Curtis - both in major Carpenter films: "Big Trouble" and "Halloween" respectively. And now they are both in the new film "Everything Everywhere All At Once" - a must see starring Michelle Yeoh. 05/01/2022: Where To Look Out For / Watch Asian-American Films? Unfortunately - There Are None Asian-American Heritage Month begins today, and it's the most important month for me. The question - where to look out for and watch Asian-American films? Unless there is a cable or broadcast channel dedicated to AA's, there are no worthwhile platforms. Netflix has very scant selections - I do not even consider some of the selections Asian-Americans. I'll give Netflix a pass since they have movies such as "Always Be My Maybe" and "Love Hard" (also with selections of K-Drama / Asian films - I would say Netflix encompasses the most diversity). Otherwise, where the hell are films like "Better Luck Tomorrow", "Ping Pong Playa"? (my Top Favorites of all). Other than Netflix, there are no platforms that is worthwhile (despite advertising Asian-American Heritage Month - the selections are usually non-existent or very slim-pickin's or not worth it). Amazon Prime? Well - at least they offer "Better Luck Tomorrow" for rent. No - this isn't about films. Asian-American Heritage Month is showcased more through documentaries and programs (perhaps it's better this way - to continue to educate the public). If you want to watch quality films with Asian-American casts, here's a fan link: https://letterboxd.com/sosreelthoughts/list/the-best-asian-american-films/ 04/30/2022: Justin Lin's Fast Exit I just found out Justin Lin stepped down. Then I'm done as well. The franchise has become a money-making machine, thanks in large part to Justin Lin - who turned the dying franchise into what it is (action-packed). Otherwise, it would have stopped at Tokyo Drift. I still find "Tokyo Drift" to be the best of them all - thanks also to Justin Lin's fight to challenge hollywood racism and stereotypes - to include Sung Kang's character more for one. I feel for Sung Kang - I think he should drop out as well (he might not have much of a role anyway). They have brought in more egos, and while minimizing characters such as Sung Kang's. It don't matter - I have no idea who these "egos" are. But I know they'll eventually wither away in irrelevancy. Right now - I'm just looking forward to watching "Everything Everywhere All At Once" once it is rentable. I don't think I can go to theaters with a few months old newborn at this point. 04/11/2022: I heard about the rave reviews for "Everything Everywhere All At Once". Multiverse stories are becoming commonplace these days. But this one is quite unique, different and exciting. And according to Ke, they used mostly practical effects. That is a hell yeah for me. I'm definitely looking forward to watching this when available. Here is the trailer: 02/20/2022: My 2022 Must-See List So Far Planning to watch when time / budget permits: 1. The Humans 2. After Yang 3. Everything Everywhere All At Once 4. Fistful Of Vengeance 5. A Shot Through The Walls (where or if available / streamable) 6. Jackass 4-Ever (eventually) That is all. *The list is subject for updates, pending on new films from John Cho and Simu Liu (if they release this year). I am curious on what the status of Fast 10 is. Justin Lin has not updated his social media at all. And Sung Kang is busy on his car projects. 02/01/2022: I just found out about "The Humans". I haven't heard any updates on Steven Yeun recently, but he is part of this ensemble or cast of a noteworthy, down-to-earth film. The trailer looks promising, and can't wait until it is available on VOD. Hopefully, soon. I enjoyed Kogonada's "Columbus" immensely - it was artistic and stylish. Thus, "After Yang" might be worth checking out. 01/30/2022: Jackass 4-Ever - Bringing The Jackassery To The Rumble Next thing you know, Knoxville is going to headline Wrestlemania hahaha. I don't know which is more embarrassing - having David Arquette win the WCW championship back in the day, or Johnny Knoxville using his 'technical wrestling skills' to throw wrestlers over the rope to eliminate them haha. That's exactly right - that's all you need to do. Throw them over the top of the ring ropes. No further skills required. Hahaha. With that said, Jackass Forever is coming this Friday with new members to pass the torch to. Although I highly doubt they have the same pain tolerance threshhold as the OGs. 01/26/2022: At Sundance: "Free Chol Soo Lee" This is a must-see for sure. I hope it'll be available on-demand again, or at some point for an extended period. The Asian-American movement really began here (followed by the Vincent Chin tragedy), but it never really got any coverage or attention. It was the sign of the times, where Anti-Asian racism / discrimination was more prevalent and tolerated. In fact, fuckin' hollywood tends to "steal" and "white-wash" Asian-American stories like this. It's a damn shame (A Low Down Dirty Shame if you want to get extreme or corny haha) and tragedy. I'm glad there are discussions out there with the filmmakers and producers of "Free Chol Soo Lee". The main point - Asian American history need to be taught in schools throughout (IL and NJ got the head start). The bottom line unfortunately - it's going to be a very long wait or process. This is only the beginning. We're only going to get louder and prouder. 11/09/2021: "Love Hard" ***
"Love Hard" was a light-hearted, funny Christmas Rom-Com. I believe the title is a play on the title "Die Hard", which is the main character's choice for "Best Christmas Movie Ever" haha. I beg to differ - it's either "Home Alone" or "Jingle All The Way" for the funnies. Kiddings aside, "Love Hard" is a must-see. 11/08/2021: Donnie Yen Wraps Filming "John Wick 4" Apparently - Chapter 4 actually means filming or being away for four months haha. I wonder if it were the same for IP Man 4. That film was racially charged, but kick ass martial arts action from Donnie Yen. Justin Lin finally updated his twitter - could it be for F10? 11/05/2021: "Snakehead" ***
10/12/2021: "Blue Bayou" ****
09/16/2021: "Blue Bayou" And "Snakehead" Are Next "Blue Bayou" is releasing tomorrow - a Justin Chon film about deportation and the controversy over citizenship regarding adoptees. There have been some nice articles about this. "Snakehead" is another film to look out for, coming around mid-October. This one is about human smuggling mafia-style. In the meantime, just lookin' to hear some news on a sequel to "Shang-Chi" and a possible F10, or The Final Fast? 09/08/2021: "Shang-Chi And The Legend Of The Ten Rings" ****
08/29/2021: "Ghost / Grotesque Mansion" ***1/2
08/26/2021: "Snakehead" Poster Is Kick-Ass
08/20/2021: Join The "Shang-Chi" Movement / Extravaganza With "Shang-Chi And The Legend Of The Ten Rings" having its red carpet premiere recently, the countdown to its global release on September 3 is on. From the various trailers, clips and review I've seen / read, the hype is real. It's damn real. Simu Liu fits the character of Shang-Chi to the tee - I feel he resembles the character from the comics anyway. He has that sculpted, athletic body. Awkwafina appears to complement his character well, with the much needed humor or comedy. It's infused throughout the film. "Does he look like a guy who can fight?!" (during the bus scene) haha. I'm closely following the countdown until release date. The problem of how "Foreign Asians" view "American Asians" or "Canadian Asians" (Simu Liu in this case) is not a concern at all to me, as I don't waste my time paying attention to their nonsense or prejudices. You have to realize that "Foreign Asians" have been enslaved or have been submissive to western culture for so long, they are pretty much stuck in their ways or cannot change. I've seen Korean actors / actresses or K-Pop artists (also some Chinese and Japanese as well) try so hard to look like white people, it's laughable. With that said, Simu Liu fits the character of Shang-Chi to the tee. 08/06/2021: More Beautiful Posters from "Shang-Chi And The Legend Of The Ten Rings"
07/29/2021: His Name Is Yen, Donnie Yen
07/14/2021: Fast 9: The Fast Saga ***
06/26/2021: New "Shang-Chi" Trailer And it is even more kick-ass. Cannot wait - trailer saved. I am not familiar with MCU characters / villains, so I wouldn't know if any made a cameo appearance or not. But I believe they showed the rings and all its glorious powers. "REVENGE IS A DISH BEST SERVED - BY THE FAST FAM AS WELL". JUSTICE HAS ARRIVED: 
06/17/2021: Wish Dragon ***
06/13/2021: "Wish Dragon" Ranked #4 / #2 Globally - I'm Lovin' It Congratulations to "Wish Dragon" for ranking #4 US, and #2 globally. I'll watch it eventually (right now, pre-occupied with K-Dramas). Everyone should watch it - every culture has a story, and it's funny, cute and inspiring from what I hear. Defintely a review once I watch it. 05/24/2021: The Paper Tigers ***
05/13/2021: Official "Wish Dragon" Trailer is here! And it is cute and funny as hell. I plan to watch it - on Netflix 06/11/21. So perhaps the age-old story of a genie in a lantern might be overdone, but every culture can express their own stories. Most importantly for me, it's an Asian-American or Asian story with Asian characters. There is going to be Asian elements to it, so unique and different in that sense. While most would wish for material possessions, "Wish Dragon" appears to be about the intangibles or heart's desires as opposed to material possessions such as wealth. It should be a fun ride. In addition to new Netflix or Amazon programs / films for Asian-Americans, I've been checking several Asian-American film festivals as well where there could be hidden gems. 05/08/2021: There are quite a few Asian-American films that I am not aware of. For AAPI Heritage Month, I wish I could watch most of them. There must be a platform just for that. Anyway, here is a compilation or list of Asian-American films I found from a fan site: https://letterboxd.com/sosreelthoughts/list/best-asian-american-films/ There are probably more unlisted, but anyway. It's quite a list of films that appear to be a must-see. 05/04/2021: "The Paper Tigers" Is Comin' To Theaters 05/07
05/01/2021: Stowaway ***1/2
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