Day One | Day Two | Day Three | Day Four

Lights, camera...
Joe Nguyen, staff writer
June 2, 2006

AURORA – The Aurora Asian/Pacific Community Partnership and the Denver Film Society kicked off the 9th annual Aurora Asian Film Festival Thursday night at the Aurora Fox Arts Center.

Photo by Joe Nguyen From left to right: Director Eric Byler, script supervisor Cynthia Tsai, and actors Allison Sie and Chris Tashima during the Q&A session after the showing of their film "Americanese."

What has become a tradition, the opening night’s festivities began with a movie followed by a gala complete with Asian-themed food and entertainment.

The night’s film was “Americanese,” a complex story about love, racism and identity. Eric Byler, the film’s director, was in attendance along with actors Chris Tashima and Allison Sie, and the script supervisor, Cynthia Tsai.

“We’ve all seen movies that deal with racism and usually there’s very extreme opposite forces that collide and there’s violence involved,” Byler said. “I wanted try to address the way that racism affects our lives in reality as opposed to in movies.”

Nearly half an hour before the film was scheduled to begin, the theater’s crowded lobby was buzzing with activity. There was barely space to walk as movie patrons were immersed in conversation.

In the back, photographs by Kit Williams were showcased. Williams, the festival’s official photographer, captured images from a number of different Asian cultures.

Photo by Joe Nguyen Entertainers perform traditional Thai music and dance at the 9th Aurora Asian Film Festival's opening night gala.

A number of local politicians were in attendance including Aurora mayor Ed Tauer, former mayor Paul Tauer and several members from the city council.

7News’ weekend anchor Christine Chang served as the mistress of ceremonies for the second year.

After the movie, the cast and crew of “Americanese” conducted a 30-minute Q&A session with the audience. Questions ranged from topics about various scenes to technical aspects of the movie. At one point, Byler discussed his first meeting with Shawn Wong, the author of the book the movie’s based on, “American Knees.”

“[After reading the script], the one thing I remember [Wong saying to me was], ‘You’re a good writer and I just wish you could put some of my jokes back,’” he said.

The gala was held at the Fletcher Plaza, one block west of the theater. Those who stayed for the event were treated to food from a plethora of Asian cultures and entertainment from traditional Thai song and dance.

Joe Nguyen is a staff writer for asiaXpress.com. You can reach Joe at joe@asiaxpress.com.