New Wave
T
he Vietnamese diaspora in the USA became a musical phenomenon with the New Wave explosion of the 80s and 90s. Filmmaker Elizabeth Ai grew up amid this vibrant scene in Orange County, California, and now, by unearthing family secrets and old wounds, she revisits the generational trauma and cultural identity of her community traversed by Euro-synth dance beats and punk/goth aesthetics.
Filmmaker Elizabeth Ai delves into the lives of family members and icons of the new wave scene, she uncovers much more than just music and fashion.
The joyful memories of her uncles and aunts sneaking out to this underground scene clash with her own painful childhood, haunted by her mother’s abandonment.
As the filmmaker digs deeper, the excavation becomes an emotional journey, unraveling mysteries that touch on cultural identity and the Vietnam War’s lasting impact. The exploration transforms from a love letter to her community into a cathartic process for the filmmaker. By confronting these buried emotions, the film takes us on a soulful journey that binds wounds, celebrates resilience, and offers new beginnings.
