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Photo by Nathan Johnson
Midori Francis: Rising Star And Relentless Optimist
By Nathan Liu
It’s always somewhat intimidating speaking with a person who’s the same age as you, but far more successful. That’s why I felt nervous when I sat down to speak with Midori Francis, star of Universal’s Good Boys and Netflix’s Dash & Lily. Yet, within a few seconds, all anxiety was swept away as I got to know the thoughtful and immensely talented individual that is Midori Francis.
Kayo Hatta’s ‘Picture Bride,’ a forgotten film ahead of its time
By Nathan Liu
So begins Kayo Hatta’s “Picture Bride,” a beautiful, touching, yet sadly overlooked piece of Asian American cinema from 1995. The film tells the story of a Japanese girl (played by Youki Kudoh) moving to Hawaii in 1918, only to discover that her husband is much older than his photo, and that the conditions on the island are harsh.
James Wong Howe: Cinematographer extraordinaire
By Nathan Liu
Since I started writing for CineVue, I’ve done my best to spotlight early pioneers in the film industry. People like Sessue Hayakawa, Hollywood’s first Asian leading man, and Miyoshi Umeki, the first Asian actress to win an Oscar. And while I’m eager to do so, I find myself grappling with an uncomfortable question whenever I decide to spotlight one of these forgotten figures: what’s the point?
‘Better Luck Tomorrow’: 20 Years Later
By Nathan Liu
If you’re under a certain age, that name might mean nothing to you. But if you’re an Asian, or in my case, Wasian male born in the 90s, it’s probably a film that holds a special place in your heart. Specifically, for showcasing a version of Asian masculinity that hadn’t really been seen up to that point. I remember watching the film for the first time, and being amazed by the characters, a group of disaffected Asian high schoolers who were smart, aggressive, sexual, and thoroughly American in their dress and speech.