Wednesday, May 11, 6:30 pm
Crowell Public Library is very fortunate to present a special screening of To Climb a Gold Mountain, a new cultural and educational film that tells the stories of four women of Asian descent who lived in America from the 1850s to the present day. The women came from different backgrounds and lived dramatically different lives. Some of the women featured in the film, such as Anna May Wong, have reached success and fame. Still others, like Sing Ye, a prostitute who lived in the 1800s and fought for freedom, are all but forgotten. Each woman’s story represents a distinct theme of struggle and triumph, and ushers in the succeeding story leading up to the present time. Through these stories, the film tracks the progression, evolution and legacy of the immigrants in America as they integrate into the fabric of America.
In the 1800s, the Chinese called America Gam Saan. It meant “Gold Mountain” and bespoke a myth of treasures waiting for any poor immigrant willing to sweat blood and tears. But for the poor women and men arriving on these shores, it was anything but. To Climb a Gold Mountain relates this 160-year narrative through the stories and voices of a set of particularly iconic women, representing distinct stages and themes in a compelling and dramatic tale. The film’s producers have received a Certificate of Congressional Recognition related to the film, a Golden Award from The World Film Festival, and Best Feature Documentary from the LA Film Festival of Hollywood. In addition PBS has picked the TV version of the film for broadcasting.
The film has a running time of 73 minutes and will be presented by the executive producer and director, Alex Azmi who will discuss the making of the film and answer questions. Dr. Azmi is a filmmaker who is interested in documentaries that deal with social and cultural issues. His most current project is called “Man and Machine,” and is about the impact of technologies on the lives of ordinary people.
Come to Crowell Public Library on Wednesday, May 11th at 6:30 p.m. for a fascinating look into Asian cultural history.
