Captivating Stories From Hollywood to History

Read Time:4 Minute, 16 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
Arthur Dong's Asian American Stories
Hollywood Chinese
Sewing Woman
Forbidden City U.S.A.
The Killing Fields of Dr. Haing S. Ngor
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Genre: Documentary / Short / History / Biography
Year Released: 2007 / 1982 / 1989 / 2015, 2024 Kino Lorber Blu-ray
Runtime: 1h 30m / 14m / 56m / 1h 27m
Director(s): Arthur Dong
Writer(s): Arthur Dong
Where To Watch: available June 25, 2024; pre-order your copy here: www.kinolorber.com or www.amazon.com

RAVING REVIEW: Arthur Dong's ASIAN AMERICAN STORIES is a captivating Blu-ray collection that beautifully encapsulates the rich and diverse experiences of Asian Americans through four distinctive films: HOLLYWOOD CHINESE, SEWING WOMAN, FORBIDDEN CITY U.S.A., and THE KILLING FIELDS OF DR. HAING S. NGOR. Spanning over three decades, this unintentional anthology highlights Dong's keen historical insights and storytelling ability, which have earned him over 150 international film awards.

Kicking off the collection is HOLLYWOOD CHINESE, a thought-provoking documentary that delves into the portrayal of Chinese individuals in Hollywood films. Dong expertly dissects the stereotypes that have haunted Chinese characters, from the silent era to contemporary blockbusters. The documentary features interviews with industry heavyweights such as Ang Lee, Justin Lin, and Nancy Kwan, who discuss these stereotypes' pervasive impact on the Asian community. This film is a crucial exposé, shedding light on Hollywood's persistent issues with race and representation and the significant influence these portrayals have on public perceptions of Chinese culture.

SEWING WOMAN offers an intimate look into the life of Dong’s mother, Zem Ping Dong. This touching short documentary takes viewers on an emotional journey from her arranged marriage in pre-war China to her struggles and eventual success in America. This Oscar-nominated film stands out for its heartfelt depiction of an immigrant’s resilience and determination. By chronicling her life, Dong creates a narrative that resonates, reflecting the immigrant experience personally and universally.

The next film, FORBIDDEN CITY U.S.A., transports viewers to the vibrant nightlife of 1940s San Francisco—this documentary profiles pioneering entertainers who broke cultural barriers in an all-Chinese nightclub during significant racial segregation. Interviews with performers like Larry Ching and Noel Toy bring this era to life, painting a nostalgic yet lively picture of the past. The film celebrates creativity and perseverance, showcasing how these entertainers navigated societal challenges and achieved acclaim despite their obstacles.

The final installment, THE KILLING FIELDS OF DR. HAING S. NGOR, is perhaps the most harrowing of the collection. It chronicles the life of Dr. Haing S. Ngor, a Cambodian doctor who survived the Khmer Rouge genocide. His journey from the horrors of the killing fields to his Academy Award-winning role and his tragic murder in Los Angeles is both inspirational and heartbreaking. The film employs a mix of archival footage to convey the grim realities of the genocide and Ngor’s indomitable spirit. This documentary not only honors Ngor's legacy but also serves as a stark reminder of the atrocities committed by the Khmer Rouge regime.

Dong’s remarkable ability to intertwine historical narratives with personal stories makes this anthology stand out, providing profound insights into the Asian American experience. Each film highlights this community’s history, from immigration struggles to cultural triumphs and the fight against racial stereotypes. Dong's work is a powerful example of how documentary filmmaking can educate and inspire, making this collection an essential addition to any film enthusiast’s library.

Overall, ARTHUR DONG'S ASIAN AMERICAN STORIES presents a comprehensive and nuanced look at the challenges and achievements of Asian Americans through expertly crafted documentaries that are as enlightening as they are engaging. This collection celebrates Dong’s illustrious career and is a crucial educational resource that underscores the importance of diverse storytelling in cinema. The collection not only captivates with its storytelling but also educates on critical issues of representation and cultural history, making it a must-watch for those interested in these vital topics.

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[photo courtesy of KINO LORBER]

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