AABANY is pleased to announce that it will be resuming its long-time partnership with AAIFF, promoting six short films showing online under the title of “Fire & Water: Shorts in Your Element.” These films include:
“Skin Can Breathe” by Chheangkea
Soda, a Cambodian teenager living in America seeks refuge from his volatile surroundings through swimming. Navigating his relationship with his family, as well as the awkward and erotic nature of his swim team, Soda’s story of self-discovery enthralls viewers. “Skin Can Breathe” is an award-winning short film, bound to catch the audience’s attention.
“Inheritance” by Erin Lau
Kelsey Akioka spends his days photographing the Kalapana lava fields, selling his photos in a pop-up tent to apathetic tourists to support his son and elderly father. Upon receiving news that his friend is sacrificing his passion to better his family’s life, Kelsey must balance his inner conflict with his home life. Directed by Erin Lau, a Native Hawaiian filmmaker with experience working with Sundance Institute, Tribeca Studios, MTV, the Points North Institute, Nia Tero, and Film Independent’s Project Involve program and Episodic Directors Intensive, this short film is a must watch.
“Honolulu” by Maya Tanaka
12-year-old Yuki’s Hawai’ian beach vacation is threatened by mundane family tensions that threaten to boil over, leaving unforgettable memories. Supported by the 2021 Tribeca Studios x Chanel Through Her Lens Female Filmmaking Grant, Maya Tanaka tells an intricate tale of family and culture through Honolulu.
“The Ocean Duck” by Huda Razzak, My Anh Ngo
During a flood, a woman’s visit to her ailing grandmother in a hospital triggers nostalgic memories and fantastical visions of an ancient tale coming to life. “The Ocean Duck,” an animated short film by Huda Razzak and My Anh Ngo, beautifully merges ancient poetry with a modern story of family bonds.
“Rooted (防己)” by Yi-Wei Wu
Rescued by a lifeguard who mistook him for drowning, a teenager grapples with newfound desires that have long been suppressed. Wu Yi-Wei, a writer exploring the complexities of gender, body, and family crisis, transitioned to film direction after earning his M.F.A. in RTF from Shih Hsin University, with “ROOTED” marking his debut short film.
“The Roaring of the Carabao” by Angeline Meitzler
A daughter, born in the United States, travels to the Philippines, her mother’s homeland, and is met with a volcanic eruption on the night of her arrival. Enchanted by the turbulent landscape, she embarks on a haunting journey through the past, present, and beyond, illuminated by the glow of an ember. Incorporating elements of hauntology, “The Roaring of the Carabao” explores the Taal Volcano, one of the Philippines’ most active volcanoes, and its ongoing activity as a symbol of Filipino Americanism.
To receive a 25% off discount code, exclusive to AABANY members, please register here at least two days prior to the showing. To buy tickets to “Fire & Water: Shorts in Your Element”, click here. To learn more about the other films and events exhibited at this festival, click here.