PAAFF 2021 comes to an end with a limited-capacity in-person screening of our Closing Night film A Sexplanation ! Like with many American youth in the 90s, Alex was taught that sex before marriage was wrong. Because he knew he was gay, these tactics worked to suppress his sexuality.Now in his 30s and out of the closet, Alex has turned fear and loathing into something positive and humorous. With humor and grit, Alex takes audiences on a playful, heartfelt journey from a shame-filled past to a happier, healthier future. Directed by Alex Liu Produced by Steven Flynn, Alex Liu and Leonardo Neri Written by Alex Liu and Leonardo Neri A Sexplanation will have an in-person screening at Asian Arts Initiative and will also be available for a 24 hour rental starting on 11/14 at 7PM. There will be a LIVE Q&A with the filmmakers of A Sexplanation and the filmmakers of the pre-screener short film “Tho” after the in-person screening, followed by a small reception at Asian Arts Initiative. Buy your tickets here! Check out the rest of the PAAFF 2021 lineup here!
Center Narrative: Waikiki In this cinematic allegory of love and loss, a hula dancer fights for survival and her sanity in the shadows of Waikiki. This feature-length narrative offers an unflinching glimpse into paradise where there remains hope through human connection and reconnection to ʻaina (nature). Directed by Christopher Kahunahana Produced by Connie M. Florez and Nicole Naone Written by Christopher Kahunahana Waikiki will be available to rent for a limited period: November 10 - 14. A live filmmaker Q&A will be live-streamed on Saturday, November 13 at 8 PM EST. Rent Waikiki here! Check out the rest of the PAAFF 2021 lineup here!
PAAFF’s Asian Music Showcase is back and in-person at Asian American Arts Initiative! This year’s showcase features an entirely local artist lineup and a variety of music genres: Filipino singer-songwriter and producer Joshua Bation; Marina Murayama, blending synthesized electronic textures and lush orchestral soundscapes; Filipino-American artist and producer Lucas Geniza, aka Lukey; and electronic music artist REGOTHERESHEGO. This limited-capacity in-person performance will be held at Asian Arts Initiative on Friday, November 12 at 8 PM EST. Buy your tickets here! Performers: Joshua Bation is a Filipino singer-songwriter and producer raised in Philadelphia. Blending both pop & RnB, Joshua’s heart is singing - laying his smooth vocals on songs such as ‘Fall In’, ‘Otherside’ & ‘All Night’. Artist Page Marina Murayama's musical writing explores themes of mixedness, decolonization, and accountability. Although Marina has roots in the classical tradition, their current music weaves together synthesized electronic textures and lush orchestral soundscapes. Outside of composing and performing, Marina teaches high school music with the School District of Philadelphia. Artist Page Lukey is the stage name of Filipino American artist and producer Lucas Geniza. The Philadelphia-based musician is recognized as a true multifaceted talent, gifting listeners with rich production, poetic lyricism, and timeless melodies. Since his debut in 2016, the artist has continued to add to a decorated resume that includes over 2.3 million global streams and placements on Spotify’s coveted playlists Soultronic, Fresh Finds, Fresh Finds: Indie, and Fresh Finds: Pop. Artist Page REGOTHERESHEGO a groundbreaking artist with dynamic sound, is making waves in Philadelphia and to audiences across the world. REGO continues to elevate each visual and sonic standard she sets with every new release. She stamps the integrity and depth of her artistry with the latest “Beg for It” music video. Her second solo EP titled “Interlude,” adds to the depth of her catalogue and continues to inspire audiences through her raw and passionately electric music. Artist Page Check out the rest of the PAAFF 2021 lineup here!
