An engaging, lighthearted look at the serious issues of race, power and gender in the global economy. SEEKING ASIAN FEMALE tells the story in a way that compels the audience to wonder how it will turn out. The narrator herself is drawn into the story of a potentially creepy but eventually sympathetic older man who finds love on the Internet in the form of a Chinese woman half his age.

A complex web of family interrelations is beautifully untangled through a thoughtfully paced and brilliantly acted portrait of estranged siblings struggling to cope with the death of their father and find closure. Ken Adachi's delicate direction gives this talented cast an opportunity to shine as an ensemble.

It was a difficult decision but we felt SUNSET STORIES presented a diverse vision with compassionate characters and heartfelt storytelling. This year, we felt the award should go to a dedicated filmmaker holding the torch for the Asian American film movement. Every submission in this category has its merits yet SUNSET STORIES' effort to present a pluralistic vision of American society won our hearts and our decision.

Project: "FACING THE MIRROR"