The Tigertail Asian Film Festival made its highly anticipated debut on July 13, 2024, at LOOK Dine-In Cinema located in Tampa's University Mall. This inaugural event is notable as Tampa Bay's first Asian-inspired film festival, bringing together filmmakers, artists, and cinema enthusiasts to celebrate the rich cultural heritage and storytelling traditions of Asian cinema. The festival showcased 28 local and international short films and one international feature film, offering attendees a diverse cinematic experience.
Founded by Tian Liu of Tigertail Pictures, the festival aims to be a premier platform for showcasing the vibrant and diverse stories of Asian filmmakers. By promoting cultural exchange and artistic collaboration, the Tigertail Asian Film Festival provides a dynamic platform for filmmakers to present their work, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of Asian cultures. This inclusive event embraces a wide range of perspectives and talents, making it a true celebration of diversity in filmmaking.
The festival featured an impressive lineup of performances and speakers, enriching the cinematic experience for attendees. Renowned comedian Everett Anthony entertained the audience with his stand-up comedy routine, while acclaimed artist and muralist Annie Dong captivated attendees with a live painting session. Writer, director, and executive producer Jesse Gebryel shared valuable insights on building a successful career in film, and ISKA World Champion and fight choreographer James Sang Lee inspired the audience with his extensive experience in film and video production. Tian Liu, the founder and CEO of Tigertail Asian Film Festival and Tigertail Pictures, also graced the event, sharing her experiences and collaborations with industry icons such as Oscar winner Tim Burton and three-time Oscar nominee for best cinematography, Dean Cundey.
The festival also recognized outstanding achievements in filmmaking with awards in various categories. Notable winners included Darkhan Tulegenov for BEST FILM INVESTOR with "Brothers," Richard Gil and Bruce Willis in the EXHIBITION CATEGORIES for "The Ether Tales," and Jesse Gebryel & Christos Pietris for BEST SCREENWRITER with "Alexa." Other winners included Alexa by Rrita Toka for BEST ACTRESS and Steppe by Duaren Sergazin for BEST ACTOR. The festival also honored the work of first-time filmmakers and female filmmakers, highlighting the inclusive nature of the event.
The success of the Tigertail Asian Film Festival was made possible by the dedication and support of volunteers, performers, and speakers. With over a hundred attendees, the festival not only showcased outstanding films but also facilitated meaningful discussions and networking opportunities for filmmakers and enthusiasts alike, providing a valuable platform for cultural exchange and artistic collaboration.
Submissions are now open for the 2025 Tigertail Asian Film Festival. Filmmakers are invited to submit their works and be part of this prestigious event. For more information, visit the Tigertail Submissions page at https://filmfreeway.com/TigertailAsianFilmFestival and the Tigertail Website at https://tigertailpictures.wixsite.com/tigertailasian-film.
