People's Republic of Love

Join us for a weekend celebrating brand new documentaries made by Asian American filmmakers. Stay afterward to discuss the documentaries with the filmmakers. All films free and open to the public!!

Friday Oct. 7, 7pm at Elvehjem L140: BAD RAP

Q&A with Producer Jaeki Cho

This documentary follows the careers of four Asian American rappers, who must literally and figuratively battle for a space in a hip hop culture that fails to acknowledge their existence. From the fierce rhymes of crowd favorite Dumbfoundead to the tongue-in-cheek songs of Awkwafina, the unapologetic visuals of Rekstizzy to the conflicted values of Lyricks, the film paints a memorable portrait of artistic passion in the face of an unsung struggle.

Saturday Oct. 8, 2pm at Vilas 4070: TYRUS

Q&A with Director Pamela Tom

Following the story of 104-year old Tyrus Wong, this documentary reveals the epic achievements of the Chinese American painter whose watercolors provided the inspiration for Disney’s animated feature BAMBI. The film spans from Wong’s early life as a Chinese immigrant to his professional career as one of the first Asian Americans to work in Hollywood, all the while battling anti-Asian racism through his magnificent works of art.

Saturday Oct. 8, 7pm at Vilas 4070: MELE MURALS

Q&A with Director Tad Nakamura

This documentary by Tad Nakamura tells the story of Native Hawaiian youth who are combining indigenous forms of spirituality with the contemporary art of graffiti in order to build community in Waimea, HI. Their unique blend of hip-hop culture and ancient traditions has a transformative effect on two artists who must embark on their own spiritual journey toward becoming mentors, educators, and leaders.

**Special Student Spotlight**

Sunday Oct. 9, 2pm at Elvehjem L140: PEOPLE’S REPUBLIC OF LOVE

Q&A with Producer Yizhou Xu

Produced by University of Wisconsin-Madison graduate student Yizhou Xu, this documentary examines the cultural, economic, and political implications of contemporary love in China. Some of the stories include a school for becoming the perfect wife, dating shows on television, businesses that specialize in matchmaking, and the struggles of lesbian and gay couples. The film traces the complex shifts in the role of romance, marriage, and partnership alongside many of the other large-scale changes that the country is undergoing.

Thanks to our sponsors: Cinematheque, Anonymous Fund, and the Asian American Student Union (AASU)