CAAMFest36 is the largest Asian/Asian-American festival showcase in the nation, presented by the Center for Asian American Media (CAAM). Beginning on May 10th and ending on May 24th, venues throughout the Bay Area screen over 100 films and hosting cultural events including live music and food offerings. CAAMFest attracted 27,000 people last year and about 40,000 are expected to attend this year’s festivities. Why? Well here are a few things CAAMFest veterans will pledge by:
1. It Is The Best Way To Celebrate Asian Pacific American Heritage Month
The month of May is Asian Pacific American Heritage Month and what better way is there to celebrate the achievements of the Asian Americans in America than attend a film festival that recognizes their creativity. Works showcased at the festival come from across the United States and 20 other countries.
2. You Gain Unique Perspectives
Special presentations, such as Muslim Youth Voices 3.0, a world premiere screening event featuring films from youth in Plano, Texas and Portland, Oregon, celebrates diverse lifestyles. This event, in particular, is followed by a panel discussion and is free to attend! Another event of interest is Half Widow which, directed by Danish Renzu, is a narrative about loss and self-actualization amidst the backdrop of the Kashmir conflict between China, India, and Pakistan.
3. All The Laughs
Comedic events, such as the Disoriented Comedy Show, are sure to put a smile on your face. CAAMFest36 will also host an exclusive on-stage conversation with “Crazy Rich Asians” Director Jon M. Chu to get the inside story about this summer’s star-studded blockbuster.
4. There Will Be Special Guests
Notable guests such as Filipino-American rapper, Ruby Ibarra, and Japanese-American politician Norman Mineta, who most recently served in President George W. Bush’s Cabinet as the United States Secretary of Transportation will, along with many others, be in attendance.
5. There Is Something For Everyone
From narratives to documentaries, world premieres to live performances, everyone will find something they will enjoy and appreciate at the film festival. Not only this, but female filmmakers, artists, musicians, and other media makers dominate about half of the programming slate as well.
