San Diego Asian Film Festival: Chew the Scene
The San Diego Asian Film Festival — the largest showcase of Asian cinema on the West Coast — kicks off its 20th year(!) with the sixth annual Chew the Scene launch party. “This year, I have seen the emergence of exciting culinary concepts in San Diego, bringing together Filipino and Mexican sensibilities, or Vietnamese and Korean flavors,” says Brian “Emeril” Hu, Pac Arts’ artistic director. Thank Ozu that more thought goes into Hu’s ability to book titles than event-naming. C’mon, Pac Arts Movement: throw a bit of wit into the mix. Surely SDAFF could get away with calling it “Chu the Scene” or even “Chow Yon Fat;” “Chew the Scene” sounds more like the Reader’s annual food issue. Still, who cares what it’s called? With over 20 participating restaurants, the chances that you’ll leave hungry are slim. Tickets to the 21+ event run $40 to $80. — Scott Marks