CAAMFest – CAAMFest is the nation’s largest showcase for new Asian American and Asian films, annually presenting approximately 130 works in San Francisco, Berkeley, and Oakland. Since 1982, the Festival has been an important launching point for Asian American independent filmmakers and a vital source for new Asian cinema: New People Cinema and various theaters. May 11-22, 2023

CAAMFest 2023: A Call to Gather

The anticipation is palpable as CAAMFest 2023 invites communities to come together once more, from May 11-21, 2023, to celebrate the rich talent of Asian and Asian American artists in film, music, food, and ideas. After a hiatus since 2019, the festival returns as a fully in-person experience, marking a significant moment after three years of isolation.

The profound impact of the pandemic has left an indelible mark on us all. We have emerged changed, with altered feelings, thoughts, and modes of engagement. In curating CAAMFest 2023, careful consideration was given to how we can best serve our community, understanding their needs within these transformed spaces and valuing their time.

These years of vulnerability have fostered transparency, purpose, and reliance on one another for growth and healing. We embrace unraveling, acknowledging our wounds, and striving to restore bonds. Above all, we seek the pursuit of joy.

CAAMFest 2023 stands as a resounding call to gather. It beckons us to witness our personal and collective transformations, uplift each other through audacious stories, and embark on a reunion journey after a period of separation.

As the festival unfolds, attendees will immerse themselves in an array of exceptional cinematic experiences, captivating performances, tantalizing flavors, and thought-provoking dialogues. Each moment presents an opportunity to celebrate the resilience, creativity, and dynamism of Asian and Asian American communities. Through the power of storytelling, we aim to ignite change, foster empathy, and foster unity.

CAAMFest 2023 is more than just a gathering—it is a testament to the collective spirit. It extends an invitation to stand together, forge new connections, and reignite the spark of inspiration within ourselves and others. This transformative journey will unveil a new chapter filled with discovery, understanding and an unwavering pursuit of joy. Together, we will shape the narrative of our future.

Welcome to CAAMFest 2023, where voices find resonance, dreams take flight, and our community thrives again.