AABANY is proud to once again serve as a Community Partner for the 49th Asian American International Film Festival (AAIFF49), presented by Asian CineVision (ACV). This year’s festival runs from July 30 through August 9, 2026, in New York City and virtually, and features a captivating array of films that explore themes of love, relationships, and grief, all through an Asian American focused lens. In addition to a stellar lineup of films, the festival will feature exclusive panels, receptions, and VIP events, providing unique opportunities to connect with industry professionals and fellow film enthusiasts.
As a Community Partner, AABANY will be promoting two film screening as part of this year’s festival:
Almost American (Shorts – Documentary)
Directed by Saritha Rothermel and Sam Soliman
Almost American follows Sam Soliman as he anxiously awaits the outcome of his DACA renewal. Just as he begins to reckon with his place in America, his world is shattered by the sudden detainment and deportation of his mother by ICE. The film reveals how today’s immigration policies not only decide who gets to stay, but shape the story America tells about who belongs. This film is shown as a part of a series of seven short films under the shorts program: On the Move: Immigrants in 2026.
Screening: Saturday, August 8, 2026 at 7:30 PM, as part of a shorts block, at Village East by Angelika.
Learn more: https://aaiff.filmbot.com/2026/movies/Almost-American/
Use AAIFF49_AABANY at checkout to receive a discount.
Seat at the Table (Features – Documentary)
Directed by Sarita Khurana and Yoav Attias
Seat at the Table chronicles the rise of South Asian Americans in U.S. politics, tracing their journey from the margins to the forefront of American power. Shot in immersive vérité style, the film follows several prominent South Asian political candidates during the 2024 election cycle, alongside a community galvanized by the groundbreaking campaign of the first South Asian presidential candidate, capturing a historic year for the South Asian diaspora as more candidates than ever ran for office.
Screening: Sunday, August 9, 2026 at 12:00 PM at Village East.
Learn more: https://aaiff.filmbot.com/2026/movies/Seat-at-the-Table/
Use AAIFF49_AABANY at checkout to receive a discount.
Tickets and passes are currently on sale on the AAIFF website. Spread the word, mark your calendars, and join us in celebrating this milestone year for Asian American cinema! Visit https://aaiff.org/ for the full festival schedule.