First Light: Asian Short Film Screening & Cultural Celebration
A Once-in-a-Lifetime Cultural Experience
Step into an afternoon where cinema, culture, and conversation collide! Three vibrant organizations—Viet Creative Society, Taiwanese American Professionals (TAP), and Fuzhou America—come together to showcase the richness of Asian storytelling through film and dialogue.
This is more than just a screening—it’s an immersive journey through the voices of emerging and established Asian filmmakers, a celebration of heritage, and a rare chance to connect with artists and communities over shared stories.
This year’s lineup includes groundbreaking works from emerging filmmakers such as Shenghan Gao, Masataka Ishizaki, Vivek Menon, Artemisia Luk, Wonsik Choi, and Siqin Bian, whose storytelling pushes boundaries and illuminates diverse perspectives.
From intimate narratives to visionary experimental films, these artists explore identity, heritage, and the modern diaspora with striking originality. Join us in celebrating the future of Asian cinema—where fresh talent meets global audiences.
Introduction
1:00 PM – Doors Open / Guest Arrival (Mingling + Light Refreshments)
1:20 PM – Opening Remarks (Festival Organizers & Collaborators)
Screening + Q&A Discussion
1:30 PM – Shenghan Gao: My Name人如其名 (15 min) + Discussion (10 min)
1:55 PM – Masataka Ishizaki: The BiodiverCity (15 min) + Discussion (10 min)
2:20 PM – Short Break / Mingling (10 min)
2:30 PM – Vivek Menon: Showtime (15 min) + Discussion (10 min)
2:55 PM – Artemisia Luk: Both, And (15 min) + Discussion (10 min)
3:20 PM – Extended Break / Mingling (20 min)
3:40 PM – Wonsik Choi: 1 in 300 Million (15 min) + Discussion (10 min)
4:05 PM – Siqin Bian: Various (15 min) + Discussion (10 min)
Conclusion
4:30 PM – 5PM Closing Remarks & Group Thank You, Networking & Mingling (Final Refreshments), Event Ends.
Cultural Tastings (All Afternoon!)
Savor the flavors of Asia with:
Taiwanese specialty teas from UsTwoTea (a fragrant, handcrafted experience)
Vietnamese Bánh Da Lợn (layered pandan-coconut steamed cake)
Fujianese snacks (traditional bites from Southern China)
Global Popcorn Bar – A cinematic twist!
Viet Creative Society is a group dedicated to bringing together and highlighting Vietnamese artists and other Southeast Asian creatives across NYC.
Fuzhou America is the primary organization dedicated to fostering Fuzhou American history, culture, and community.
TAP’s mission is to enhance the Taiwanese-American community by networking individuals interested in professional and career development, while emphasizing the preservation of Taiwanese American identity.
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By RSVPing and attending, you agree to these terms and waive any claims against Shanti House and event organizers.