Called Home
Directed by Jason Piemnoppakao
Description
“Called Home takes us on a vulnerable journey of reconciliation between a Chinese American son and his father’s acceptance of his gender identity during a visit home from university.” – June Kaewsith, Shorts Curator
In Taiwan, Kal returns home late to an irate father who demands to know of his whereabouts, questioning him about his male companion. Over dinner with his grandparents, Kal relies on his father to interpret their Mandarin, lost in translation. They ask about his life at college and gush with pride at his accomplishments. However, when Kal’s grandfather asks if he has a girlfriend, Kal’s father interrupts before Kal is able to answer. Kal turns to his drawings for solace, ignoring his father’s tactless attempts at explaining himself. The next night, Kal’s father refuses to let Kal return to college, citing his changed behavior since leaving for school. Kal finally confronts his father, declaring that he refuses to pretend any longer. A tearful dad embraces Kal, relenting and coming to a silent understanding. About to leave, Kal takes one last look at his bedroom, the place he once called home.
Director's Bio
Raised in Bangkok, Thailand, Jason is a writer, director, and editor based in Los Angeles, California. He studied Film Studies and Media Studies at UC Berkeley, and is currently an MFA candidate in Film and Television Production at USC’s School of Cinematic Arts. Jason was a fellow in OutSet, where he wrote and directed his short film “Called Home”, which made its debut at the OutFest Film Festival 2016.
Credits
Producer: Mara De La Rosa
Director: Jason Piemnoppakao
Writer: Jason Piemnoppakao
Cinematographer: Andressa Cor
Production Designer: Maksim Antonov
Composer: Nami Melamud
Sound Editor: Rick Hinson
Sound Mixer: Bill Labouef
Editor: Shayar Bhansali
Cast: Jared Egusa, Wilky Lau, Alice Lin, Gabriel Tsai
Plays in
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From Vision To Reel
Shorts Programs / 62 mins
FREE PROGRAM. "From Vision to Reel" showcases short films created by emerging filmmakers of Asian American and Pacific Islander descent. Films range from topics related to immigration, family history, gender identity, sexuality, struggles and resiliency in this current political and economic climate. — June KaewsithIn This Program: Perfect Imperfection, Living In Freedom, David And Goliath, Motherlands, Called Home, Hello From the Other Side, Dollar Tree, Droga!, Story of Self, Bastard
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