Asian culture and communities have long been a part of Vancouver, and are an integral part of its history and the culture of the city we know today.
Vancouver would not be the same without the contributions of individuals of Asian heritage, even though in the past, and even up to this day, many have been treated with contempt because of their appearance and cultural differences.
If you are interested in learning more about and spreading the word about Asian artists and creators in the film industry, then make sure not to miss the last two days of the 26th annual Vancouver Asian Film Festival.
This is the longest running Asian film festival in Canada, with the first festival successfully put on in 1997 and with over 5,000 visitors each year.
The Vancouver Asian Film Festival aims to uplift Asian creators with talks from ambassadors in the industry, opening up about breaking into an industry that has often been hostile to inclusivity.
In their vision statement, VAFF writes: “ VAFF envisions a world where North American Asian actors and filmmakers have the resources and opportunities to shape mainstream culture in a powerful and positive way.”
As well as organizing different seminars and talks with Asian industry professionals, the festival has been hosting in-person and virtual screenings of Asian-American films in many different categories including short and animated films.
Below is a video clip about the film “incorrigible” which was screened at the festival this year:
This year’s festival will be closing out this weekend, November 12th and 13th, with it’s industry insight series – a set of talks and seminars for writers, directors, working with visual effects, green screen, chats with film makers in the industry and more. There are in-person and virtual sessions, with in-person tickets costing 12 dollars and virtual sessions are free.
Then, on Sunday, attend the grand finale of the festival, the OVAsian awards ceremony! This snazzy event is hosted at science world, and tickets are 50 dollars. The event goes from 7:30pm-midnight with complimentary hors d’oeuvres and beverages. The dress code is “creative and playful.”
For more information on events and ticket prices click here.
Hope to see you there!