Our History

Origins

Founded in 1985 by KingStreet Media, a community-based Asian American media production and advocacy group in Seattle's International District, the Seattle Asian American Film Festival began as a platform to showcase Asian American narratives. The inaugural festival featured groundbreaking films like "Beacon Hill Boys," "Chan Is Missing," and "Hito Hata: Raise The Banner." Held at the historic Nippon Kan Theater, the festival emphasized narrative films, marking a shift from the predominantly documentary-focused Asian American cinema of the time.

Evolution & Revival

1987: The International Examiner took over as producer, expanding the festival's lineup to include documentaries, experimental, and animation films.

1994–1998: Revived as an independent organization, SAAFF gained national recognition, supporting filmmakers like Ang Lee and Justin Lin. The festival introduced the Gold, Silver, and Bronze Carp Awards, voted on by audiences.

2003–2007: Rebranded as the Northwest Asian American Film Festival under Director Wes Kim, the festival continued to showcase Asian American filmmakers until it went on hiatus in 2007.

Modern Era

In 2012, Kevin Bang and Vanessa Au revived the festival, returning to its original name, Seattle Asian American Film Festival. The 2013 relaunch at the Wing Luke Asian Museum was met with enthusiasm, leading to steady growth and a move to the Northwest Film Forum in 2015.

Leadership transitioned over the years, with Martin Tran taking over in 2016, followed by Victoria Ju and Ellison Shieh navigating the festival through the pandemic.

As of 2020, Victoria Ju serves as the Festival Director, continuing to uphold SAAFF's mission.