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2009 News and Information

Gang Violence Examined at New Asia Monthly Film Series

25 February 2009 

With the recent rash of gang violence happening throughout Metro Vancouver, there is no better time to take a closer look into this subject. The New Asia Film Festival Monthly Film Series will delve into this issue with a documentary, followed by a panel discussion on Saturday, February 28.

A new National Film Board of Canada documentary, Warrior Boyz, takes a gritty raw look at the root causes of gang violence in the Indo-Canadian community. Directed by local Indo-Canadian filmmaker, Baljit Sangra, the 50-minute documentary examines the lives of young people in Surrey who have been involved with the gang lifestyle. It allows these youths to use their voices and tell their own personal stories of struggle.

Following the screening, a panel discussion will take place with the director, youths from the film, police, social workers and community leaders. This will be a unique opportunity to obtain a deeper understanding of gang violence first hand.
Date: Saturday, February 28, 2009
Time: 7:00 p.m.
Location: Richmond Cultural Centre, 7700 Minoru Gate
Admission: Free; however, a one-year membership at a cost of $5 is required.
Seats are limited, so plan to arrive early.

This event is presented by Richmond Cultural Centre and Cinevolution Media Arts Society, sponsored by the National Film Board of Canada.

For more information please call 604-247-8300 or visit www.vnaff.ca. 

About the New Asia Film Festival
The film series builds on the success of the first New Asia Film Festival, held last May. The 2009 film festival is scheduled for May 8 to 10.

Founded by the Cinevolution Media Arts Society and the Richmond Cultural Centre, the 2008 film festival featured 27 new films over the four days, focusing on contemporary, often controversial themes found in Asian cultures from around the world. Most of the films have rarely been screened in Canada prior to the festival.