By Luis Monteagudo Jr.
Hard to believe it’s been 14 years, but the 14th annual San Diego Asian Film Festival kicks off this Thursday with a slate of fascinating films, galas, a Taiwan film showcase and, of course, parties.
This year’s festival runs Nov. 7-16 and will feature more than 140 films from 15 countries. Most of the films will be shown at the Digiplex Mission Valley in Hazard Center, the festival’s longstanding home. But more films are being spread out to nearby venues, including the Birch North Park Theatre, the Cinepolis Del Mar and even the new downtown Central Library.
Find out what's happening in Coronadowith free, real-time updates from Patch.
The opening night film is “Finding Mr. Right,” a romantic comedy that was one of China’s biggest hits of the year. It’s about a spoiled, pregnant woman who finds unexpected romance in Seattle.
With more than 150 films, there’s something for everyone. Here are some of the offerings to keep an eye on:
Find out what's happening in Coronadowith free, real-time updates from Patch.
“Blind Detective” – Hong Kong superstar Andy Lau plays a blind private eye trying to solve a complicated crime. Directed by the highly-regarded Johnnie To.
“Drug War” – Director To again, this time with a tense, gritty thriller about a cop trying to bust a meth cartel with the help of an arrested drug who may or may not be trying to help him nail the gang.
“Homesick” – A charming coming-of-age comedy about a slacker trying to protect his childhood home from being sold and the neighborhood kids who come to his help.
“Ip Man: The Final Fight” – The conclusion to the action trilogy following the life of famed martial arts teacher Ip Man, who taught Bruce Lee.
“Unidentifed” – It’s “The Hangover” meets “The Blair Witch Project” as four friends go to Las Vegas and run into something out of this world.
For more information and to order tickets online, visit the Festival’s website at http://festival.sdaff.org.