From Hollywood to History: Films That Matter

Read Time:4 Minute, 29 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
Arthur Dong Collection (Blu-ray)
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Genre: Documentary, History, Biography
Year Released: 1970-2024, 2024 Kino Lorber Blu-ray
Runtime: 12h 44m
Director(s): Arthur Dong
Writer(s): Arthur Dong
Cast: Joan Chen, Turhan Bey, Larry Ching, Frances Chun, Haing S. Ngor, Salome Jens, Phillis Abry, David Barrett
Where To Watch: available December 31, 2024; pre-order your copy here: www.kinolorber.com or www.amazon.com

RAVING REVIEW: Arthur Dong's latest curated set from Kino Lorber is an ambitious foray into the lives and struggles of the Asian American and LGBTQIA2S+ communities. This collection isn’t just another series of documentaries; it’s a deep dive into history and identity through eight films, each bringing perspective on these underrepresented communities' social challenges and victories. This series provides a cinematic exploration of these rich narratives, demonstrating Dong’s ability to craft stories that resonate with authenticity and emotional depth.

Each film in the collection delves into a different facet of the Asian American experience. SEWING WOMAN is more than a biography of Dong's mother, Zem Ping Dong; it shows the depths of immigrant resilience, tying together her struggles and successes into a story that resonates with audiences. This film’s evocative storytelling provides insight into the universal themes of perseverance and triumph against adversity.

FORBIDDEN CITY, USA, takes us back to the 1940s, lighting up the screen with the tales of Chinese-American performers who shattered racial barriers in a San Francisco nightclub. This documentary marries archival footage with interviews, capturing the essence of an era while showcasing the indomitable spirit of those who turned adversity into artistic expression.

In HOLLYWOOD CHINESE, the focus shifts to the silver screen, where Dong challenges the stereotypes of Chinese Americans in cinema. Engaging with industry giants like Ang Lee and Nancy Kwan, this film encourages viewers to rethink long-held views about Asian representation in Hollywood. It blends critical insights with captivating storytelling.

The narrative of THE KILLING FIELDS OF DR. HAING S. NGOR rounds out the first disc. It tells the incredible story of the survival and subsequent fame of Dr. Haing S. Ngor, whose life was marked by remarkable achievements and profound tragedy. This documentary juxtaposes personal memories with history, portraying courage and legacy.

On the second disc, **LGBTQ Stories**, Dong continues to tackle significant issues with empathy and insight. COMING OUT UNDER FIRE highlights the untold stories of gay and lesbian soldiers in World War II, integrating personal stories with archival footage to contribute a vital chapter to the history of LGBTQIA2S+ rights.

OUT RAGE '69 captures the fervor of the Stonewall riots, placing this pivotal moment in queer activism within the more well-known civil rights movement. The film documents the events and paints a broader picture of the societal shifts they spurred, bringing a fresh perspective to these groundbreaking events.

LICENSED TO KILL confronts the harrowing motivations behind hate crimes against the community. Through direct interviews with perpetrators, Dong presents a stark exploration of the cultural and psychological drivers of such violence, providing an unflinching look at the darker aspects of societal prejudice.

FAMILY FUNDAMENTALS examines the often painful dynamics of families dealing with acceptance. It focuses on the stories of conservative parents and their LGBTQIA2S+ children. The film delicately balances personal narrative and broader social commentary, offering heartache and hope through its compassionate storytelling.

The collection is rounded out by a third disc packed with bonus features, including interviews and lesser-known works that offer further insights into Dong’s filmmaking process and the themes that drive his documentaries. A standout is the reflective conversation between Dong and Oliver Wang, which provides an intimate look at the filmmaker's motivations and the impacts of his work.

The Arthur Dong’s Collection is a must-own for documentary enthusiasts and anyone interested in the deeper aspects of the human experience. By challenging viewers to confront complex issues through the lens of personal narratives, Dong not only entertains but also educates and inspires. This collection is a journey unlike any other for those looking to enrich their understanding of identity, justice, and representation. It proves that film can be both a mirror reflecting the human condition and a catalyst for broader societal change.

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[photo courtesy of KINO LORBER]

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