Lil Tokyo Reporter is a narrative short film based on the true life struggles of Sei Fujii, immigrant pioneer, leader, and publisher. One of the most pinnacle civil rights leaders in the early 20th century, our narrative highlights the journey of Sei Fujii away from his political contributions, but into his interpersonal journey to defend and promote his deteriorating community during the Great Depression.

Lil Tokyo Reporter is the story of Sei Fujii (Tashima), a civic rights leader who vowed to protect his people, defending them in legal cases with Attorney Wright (Whitney) and building a much needed hospital for the Japanese American community. During the Great Depression, the community unites at their first annual pageant parade while Fujii promotes their accomplishments through his new radio program and newspaper. Wright brings to Fujii’s attention a group running the local gambling hall who decided to take advantage of his community. Fujii must make a decision to confront the issue through his reporting and newspaper. Will these local baddies win over our historic civil rights leader? Or will our hero survive a road that will lead him into many unexpected twist of events.

The film stars Chris Tashima, Eijiro Ozaki, Ikuma Ando, Keiko Agena, and Sewell Whitney. Directed by Jeffrey Gee Chin from a screenplay written by Guinevere Turner (American Psycho), based on the research of the Executive Producer Fumiko Carole Fujita and the Little Tokyo Historical Society. Produced by Mayon Denton and Michael Iinuma in association with Visual Communications and the Little Tokyo Historical Society. The team is honored to be sponsored by the California Civil Liberties Public Education Program and the Terasaki Foundation.

Immediately after the film screening, there will be a special book reading and Q&A with lead actor Chris Tashima,  director Jeffrey Gee Chin, and executive producer Fumiko Carole Fujita.  DVD’s will be available for sale at the event.

Seating is limited. To register, call JAMsj at 408-294-3138 or
register online at:  http://goo.gl/forms/fHDIzOS3AU