About Us
Launched in 2008, Philadelphia Asian American Film and Filmmakers is a nonprofit corporation dedicated to supporting Asian American film, video and media makers throughout the Philadelphia area and promoting films created by and about Asian Americans through an annual Philadelphia Asian American Film Festival (PAAFF).
The mission of PAAFF is to:
• Introduce Asian American perspectives to the Philadelphia metropolitan area.
• Educate local communities about Asian American history and issues.
• Encourage and foster growth in Asian American culture and elevate Philadelphia’s place as a
city of multicultural diversity.
• Celebrate the very best works of Asian American filmmakers and actors.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What is the Philadelphia Asian American Film Festival?
A brand new film festival that promotes films written, directed, produced and/or starring Asian Americans. Joining the ranks of a dozen or so Asian American Film Festivals nationwide, PAAFF will entertain a new audience in one of the largest cities nationwide. Some of the biggest (San Francisco Asian American Film Festival, New York Asian American Film Festival) have operated for over 25 years.
PAAFF films will explore the Asian American identity and experience. This is a celebration of films that are distinctively independent, mainstream, introspective, hilarious, action packed, spine tingling, romantic and defying categorization and expectations.
When and where will the film festival be held?
The film festival will be held from Thursday, October 9th to Sunday, October 12th. Our opening night film will be screened at The Bridge: Cinema de Lux located at 40th & Walnut Street. The Asian Arts Initiative located at 1219 Vine Street, will host the remaining films and events, from Friday to Sunday evening.
Why Philadelphia?
Philadelphia has a strong, emerging film industry and one of the largest Asian American populations in the country. In 2007, Philadelphia was ranked #2 by Moviemaker Magazine in Top 10 Cities to Make Movies and the Philadelphia Inquirer recently reported that “more than $500 million in projects are underway or planned during the next three years”.
With over 200,000 Asian Americans in the Philadelphia metropolitan area (U.S. Census Bureau, 2006), PAAFF exists to promote Asian American filmmakers and actors and currently works with organizations like the Greater Philadelphia Film Office in adding to the diversity of our growing film community.
What films will you be showing?
The list of films can be found here. The schedule will be announced soon.
What other events will occur during the film festival?
In addition to the films and Q & A’s we plan to have panel discussions, a Festival Brunch, after parties, an “Asians in Rock” show, etc. Stay tuned for more updates.
How can I be involved?
We are actively seeking sponsorship and will be looking for festival volunteers near the end of the summer. Please also join us for our upcoming events and fundraisers.
When is your submission deadline?
The submission deadline has already passed for 2008. Check back for next year!
For further questions, please email info@phillyasianfilmfest.org.
