It's hard to believe, however, for eight years now I have been privileged to give welcoming remarks at the Film Lab's annual 72 Hour Shootout filmmaking competition launch party. The competition helps bring exposure, mentorship and exhibition opportunities to filmmakers from groups traditionally underrepresented in mainstream media, with a focus on Asian Americans. This year, the competition added an additional award category for LGBTQ filmmakers. Here is a copy of my welcome to this year's filmmakers:
Hello from the virtual 72 Hour Shootout Launch Party red carpet! It’s my pleasure to welcome you to the launch of our 16th 72 Hour Shootout filmmaking competition!
Throughout the history of our country, our stories – and by “our,” I mean groups frequently underrepresented, marginalized or ignored by mainstream entertainment media like Asian Americans and others of color – our stories have often been erased or re-framed by the dominant majority. Our history, if told at all, has been told through a lens not our own, one that is ofttimes distorted or altogether false.
During times of crisis/pandemic, like this, the narrative can become even more polarizing and dangerous. We at the Film Lab knew that now, particularly, the stories of traditionally underrepresented Americans need to be amplified and so, despite everything, the 72 Hour Shootout goes on – albeit as it never has before: with extremely enhanced safety guidelines and as the 1st ever #IsolationEdition. Times are challenging and the Shootout’s new parameters are challenging, however, for 16 years now, incredible filmmakers like you have risen to the challenge to use your art to effectuate positive social change. I have no doubt in your ability to do so again. Good luck!
Watch the program here
Press Release here
Hello from the virtual 72 Hour Shootout Launch Party red carpet! It’s my pleasure to welcome you to the launch of our 16th 72 Hour Shootout filmmaking competition!
Throughout the history of our country, our stories – and by “our,” I mean groups frequently underrepresented, marginalized or ignored by mainstream entertainment media like Asian Americans and others of color – our stories have often been erased or re-framed by the dominant majority. Our history, if told at all, has been told through a lens not our own, one that is ofttimes distorted or altogether false.
During times of crisis/pandemic, like this, the narrative can become even more polarizing and dangerous. We at the Film Lab knew that now, particularly, the stories of traditionally underrepresented Americans need to be amplified and so, despite everything, the 72 Hour Shootout goes on – albeit as it never has before: with extremely enhanced safety guidelines and as the 1st ever #IsolationEdition. Times are challenging and the Shootout’s new parameters are challenging, however, for 16 years now, incredible filmmakers like you have risen to the challenge to use your art to effectuate positive social change. I have no doubt in your ability to do so again. Good luck!
Watch the program here
Press Release here
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