Each of the films in this FREE program of shorts involves food culture, preparation, or appreciation. Filmmakers expected in attendance for post-screening Q&A. Destination Philadelphia: An Immigrant's Journey An intimate portrait of Philadelphia-based chef/owner of critically acclaimed Xi’an Sizzling Woks. The Last Tip During the course of his meal, a loyal patron reminisces into his past memories at his favorite restaurant one last time. The Roots of 'Ulu ‘Ulu, or breadfruit, grows on trees that last for decades and require relatively little water or nutrients. This short doc traces the history of ‘Ulu in ancient Hawaiian cuisine and resurgence in popularity by a new generation of Hawaiians. Sameer and the Giant Samosa A dark comedy about a newlywed Indian couple and their diverging views on marriage and tradition. A surreal turn of events reveals the groom’s true, hidden appetites.From China to LA, Shanxi-born chef Jeffrey Zhifeng Yang continues one of the world’s most fabled culinary traditions - the art of noodles. Mamori Every summer Ben’s grandmother picks, stews and cans tomatoes at Matsumura Farms in Esparto, CA. A short doc of earnest life lessons passed from one generation to the next. Doubles with Slight Pepper An Indo-Carribean chef struggles to support himself by selling doubles, Trinidad’s quintessential street food. When his estranged father returns, he must decide whether to save his life. Facebook Event Page
Synopsis: This innovative documentary explores the burgeoning organic farming and slow food movements in Southern Japan, directed by sustainable Chef Chigumi Obayashi daughter of renowned Avant-garde filmmaker Nobuhiko Obayashi (House). Usuki is a small Japanese city with a population of only 41,000, but over 2,110 farms. Due in part to the important role of agriculture in the local economy, the people of Usuki are making efforts to ensure a safe and healthy food supply for future generations. Over the past decade government, farmers, businesses, and the public at-large have worked together to develop innovative farming methods, including the establishment of a compost plant and education about organic food for the general public. Their biggest accomplishment is the decision that all meals for schoolchildren must be supplied by local and organic providers. Despite challenges that improving organic food production presents, the people of Usuki offer an inspiring example for others around the world to follow. Director Chef Chigumi Obayashi in attendance for post-film Q&A. Facebook Event Page
Reading Terminal Market
12th & Arch Streets, Philadelphia
Enjoy an entire evening of FREE entertainment at one of Philadelphia’s most iconic food destinations with complimentary tastings of rare West Java Indonesian coffee in the Center Court from 6pm until film starts. Food available for purchase throughout the event. 6:30 Children’s performance of Angklung music (traditional bamboo instruments) 7:00 Traditional Indonesian Dance performance by Modero Dance 7:20 Welcoming Remarks 7:35 Filmmaker introduction and screening of Aroma of Heaven 8:45 Q&A with Director Budi Kurniawan Aroma of Heaven The coffee industry has more than 300 years of history in Indonesia. At the heart of today’s industry lies the legacy of imperialism and colonization. Tradition, culture, arts, faith, and indigenous beliefs all contribute to the story of the Indonesian coffee industry. Featuring interviews with farmers, scientists, philosophers, academics, anthropologists, and business owners - this Feature doc takes the audience to places it has never been and presents a familiar subject in a completely different way. Aroma of Heaven is an utterly engaging film that poses the provocative question: how much do we know about the coffee that we consume every day, or the people whose lives revolve around supplying it to us? Director Budi Kurniawan expected in attendance for post-film Q&A. Event co-sponsored by Old City Coffee, Inc., Reading Terminal Market, and Modero & Company oldcitycoffee.com readingterminalmarket.org moderodance.com Translation by Indonesian Diaspora Network Facebook Event Page
