AWAKEN (SHORT FILM)
Written and directed by ACMA’s film fellow Alijah Jacob Buada, AWAKEN is a short film addresses the still taboo topic of mental health diseases in Asian Culture, resulting in many youth going undiagnosed and as a result often suffer in silence.
THE BIGGER PICTURE (SHORT FILM)
A story by TAKE ONE graduate Ethan Lau, co-written by ACMA’s Creative Director Eric Michelson and Executive Director Cathlyn Choi, the Bigger Picture is a short film that addresses the stigma surrounding Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) particularly in Asian American families.
Helen Oh, a single mom who was once a professional opera singer, finds herself struggling to make ends meet by working multiple jobs. Her world takes an unexpected turn when she discovers, through her son Sean’s teacher, that he has autism. As Helen learns to navigate the challenges of raising a child with special needs, she also discovers that Sean possesses an incredible talent for art. Through the power of love, determination, and embracing the beauty of her son’s unique perspective, Helen rediscovers her own artistic passion and finds a way to create a brighter future for both herself and Sean, showcasing the extraordinary bond between a mother and her child.
THE JANITOR (SHORT FILM)
Written by ACMA’s Creative Director Eric Michelson, The Janitor is a short film produced in collaboration with Del Lago Academy High School Interns, addressing the hidden epidemic of student bullying which takes center stage. The film sheds light on the courageous journey of a student who decides to confront the bully head-on, breaking the cycle of violence and ultimately putting an end to the torment.
KINTSUGI (SHORT FILM)
Written and directed by ACMA’s TAKE ONE film student, Kintsugi is a short film that highlights the topic of domestic abuse & mental health for men.
OPEN DOORS (SHORT FILM)
Written and directed by ACMA’s film fellow William Pellegrini, Open Doors is a coming of age short film that focuses on the Asian American Model Minority Myth & how the second generation confronts it through acceptance and friendship.
BUTTERFLY (SHORT FILM)
Butterfly takes its audience back to the Los Angeles Riots of 1992. In a time where racial tension between Black and Asian communities becomes integral in determining whether or not to provide services, a nurse must overcome their inner prejudice and learned attitudes to save the life of another. In 2020, as these community tensions become familiar once again, ACMA recommends Butterfly as a community story.
DIM SUM DATING (SHORT FILM)
Dim Sum Dating focuses on the internal struggles of interracial dating in a traditional family setting–a narrative most common amongst first and second-generation AAPI folks. Our main character must find the balance between love and loyalty as young adults in a relationship. This film was written and directed by Ashleigh Budiwarman and produced with the Take One Internship Team in December 2018.
KIMCHI PASTA (FEATURE FILM)
Kimchi Pasta is inspired by true events and people as it addresses the social and cultural issues of over 100,000 Korean American adoptees in the US who struggle with abandonment and self-identity issues. As the main character feels the need to discover and connect to his cultural heritage, a friend must guide them into self-acceptance and security. This film is currently in pre-production. ACMA is seeking sponsors and Executive Producers interested in supporting our first feature film project, please contact info@acmasocal.org with your information.
