2026 Lineup
OPENING NIGHT FILM & RECEPTION:
THE GIRL WHO STOLE TIME
RECEPTIONS
FRIDAY, MARCH 20th, 2026
Opening Night Reception starts at 5:30PM, Film starts at 7:00PM
Year: 2025, Runtime: 107 minutes, Language: Mandarin Country: China
Denver Film and Colorado Dragon Boat will kick off the 11th annual Colorado Dragon Boat Film Festival in the Sie FilmCenter lobby on Friday, March 20. Join us in celebrating our theme, Threads of Connection, by wearing your favorite cultural wear. The event is included in the Opening Night Film screening ticket.
Qian Xiao, a fishing village girl gains the superpower to stop time with a magic device coveted by many more. She embarks on an adventure with new friends, in an imaginary and dazzling metropolis. While becoming a cool action hero, Qian Xiao has a price to pay for her superpower.
Arrive early for the Opening Night Pre-Film Reception to enjoy sandos, onigiri, and a featured drink by Onto Coffee as well as drink specials at the bar. A night that will make you want to stop time, fun for the whole family! Themed desserts by Sweet Thu-th Desserts!
Director: Yu Ao, Zhou Tienan
Screenwriter: Yu Ao, Zhou Tienan, Shu Yicheng
Producer: Sun Lingyu, Zhang Xuan
Cast: Jia Bing, Huang Bo, Wang Junkai, Zhou Shen, Liu Xiaoyu
SPONSORED BY:
Woven
A short film directed by: Lava G. Khonsuwon
*SHOWN BEFORE OPENING & CLOSING NIGHT FILMS
“Woven”, a documentary with a vibrant tapestry that unravels tradition and modern clothes. From the stunning landscapes of England to the rural Isaan region in Thailand, we'll uncover the stories behind traditional clothing. We'll delve into the environmental impact of fast fashion and celebrate the sustainability of traditional textiles, from the intricate embroidery of China Polano to the bold tartans of Scottish kilts. We'll explore the power of clothing to shape identity and challenge societal norms.
Film Type: Short - Documentary
Country/Counties of Origin: USA, Thailand, England
Language: English
Director: Lava G. Khonsuwon
Screenwriter: Lava G. Khonsuwon
Producer: Lava G. Khonsuwon, John K.D. Graham
Editor: John K.D. Graham
Cinematographer: John K.D. Graham, Morgan, Estill, Lava G. Khonsuwon
Principal Cast: John K.D. Graham, Lava G. Khonsuwon, Kai Uwe Faust, Jennifer Hunter, Andy Wear, Dr. Anucha Thirakanont, Nora Chavez
Social Media Handles: https://www.beinglava.com/
CENTERPIECE: CLIMBING FOR LIFE
SATURDAY, MARCH 21st, 2026
TIME: 7:00pm
130 minutes
Year: 2025, Runtime: 130 minutes, Language: Nepali, Japanese
In 1975, a woman made her way to the summit of Mount Everest. Her name is Junko. She became the first woman in history to conquer the world's highest summit. Her glorious achievement captivated the world, casting a radiant light but also a deep shadow on her friends and family. In her later years, even though she was diagnosed with a terminal illness, Junko continued to challenge the mountains throughout her life. What did Junko last see beyond the top?
Director: Junji Sakamoto
Screenwriter: Riko Sakaguchi
Producer: Naoya Kinoshita, Yumiko Takebe, Riuko Tominaga
Cast: Sayuri Yoshinaga, Koichi Sato, Yuki Amami, Non
Cinematographer: Norimichi Kasamatsu
Editor: Shinichi Fushima
SPONSORED BY:
CLOSING NIGHT FILM & RECEPTION:
FORGE
SUNDAY, MARCH 22nd, 2026
Closing Night Reception starts at 5:30PM, Fashion Show at 6:00pm, Film starts at 7:00PM
Year: 2025, Runtime: 114 minutes, Language: Cantonese, English, Country, United States
Celebrate the Closing Night of the Colorado Dragon Boat Film Festival on Sunday, March 22nd with a Pre-Film Reception. Join us in celebrating our theme, Threads of Connection, with a fashion show in our lobby during the reception. The event is included in the Closing Night Film screening ticket.
Forge Synopsis: In Miami, siblings Raymond and Coco Zhang’s art forgery ring flourishes when they encounter a disgraced millionaire in need of their expertise. Meanwhile, FBI Art Crimes agent Emily Lee moves to Miami to investigate a series of mysterious paintings.
Arrive early for the Closing Night Pre-Film Reception to enjoy expertly crafted beverages from 3456tea. They will share their Korean culture by serving teas and complimentary cocktails at our bar, using their finest natural ingredients. To close out our weekend celebrating our theme, Threads of Connection, we will host a fashion show highlighting the panelists from our Community Conversation: Cultural Threads - AANHPI Voices in Fashion. Thank you to Brandon Iwamoto for capturing this evening's looks.
We are honored to showcase the work of the following artists:
Mio Mora Couture (Anu Kochha)
Amihan Artisan Collection (Shiela DeForest)
Tokiprism (Nagisa Corbett)
Deco-Coco (Gaby Oshiro)
Director: Jing Ai Ng
Screenwriter: Jing Ai Ng
Producer: Liz Daering-Glass, Gabrielle Cordero, Jing Ai Ng, Damian Bao
Executive Producer: Dave A. Liu
Cast: Kelly Marie Tran, Andie Ju, Brandon Soo Hoo
Cinematographer: Leo Purman
Editor: Briana Chmielewski
Production Design: Arielle Ness-Cohn
Composer: Ian Chang, Marco Carrión
SPONSORED BY:
Woven
A short film directed by: Lava G. Khonsuwon
*SHOWN BEFORE OPENING & CLOSING NIGHT FILMS
“Woven”, a documentary with a vibrant tapestry that unravels tradition and modern clothes. From the stunning landscapes of England to the rural Isaan region in Thailand, we'll uncover the stories behind traditional clothing. We'll delve into the environmental impact of fast fashion and celebrate the sustainability of traditional textiles, from the intricate embroidery of China Polano to the bold tartans of Scottish kilts. We'll explore the power of clothing to shape identity and challenge societal norms.
Film Type: Short - Documentary
Country/Counties of Origin: USA, Thailand, England
Language: English
Director: Lava G. Khonsuwon
Screenwriter: Lava G. Khonsuwon
Producer: Lava G. Khonsuwon, John K.D. Graham
Editor: John K.D. Graham
Cinematographer: John K.D. Graham, Morgan, Estill, Lava G. Khonsuwon
Principal Cast: John K.D. Graham, Lava G. Khonsuwon, Kai Uwe Faust, Jennifer Hunter, Andy Wear, Dr. Anucha Thirakanont, Nora Chavez
Social Media Handles: https://www.beinglava.com/
COMMUNITY CONVERSATION: ART & ANCESTRY
SATURDAY, MARCH 21st, 2026
TIME: 10:00AM - 10:45AM
FREE & OPEN TO THE PUBLIC! WE JUST ASK THAT YOU RESEVE A SEAT.
Join us for an intimate and wide-ranging conversation with local AANHPI artists as they analyze their respective creative practices and how their art serves a tool for storytelling, investigation, cultural preservation and self-discovery. Through personal stories and honest dialogue, panelists will reflect on how they came to see art as a form of self-expression, how their heritage informs their artistry, and how they reclaim agency in artistic spaces that often seek to define them. Panelists include contemporary artist Ratha Sok, mixed media artist Sangeeta Reddy, and sculptor Shohini Ghosh. The conversation will be moderated by Japanese Arts Network (JA-NE) founder Courtney Ozaki. The conversation will conclude with a Q&A, during which audience members are encouraged to participate.
OPEN TO THE PUBLIC: $10 SUGGESTED DONATION
CULTURAL CORNER: AN ASIAN MARKETPLACE
SATURDAY, MARCH 21st, 2026
TIME: 11:00AM - 7:OOPM
Free and open to the public—celebrate local makers with handcrafted chocolates, ceramics, original artwork, desserts, and more. Stop by to support small businesses, enjoy a treat, and catch a movie.
LOOT: A Story of Crime and Redemption
SATURDAY, MARCH 21st, 2026
TIME: 11:15AM
87 minutes
Year 2025 Runtime: 87 minutes Language: Khmer, English Country: Canada, Cambodia, Netherlands, Thailand, United Kingdom, United States
A daring look at the underbelly of the global art market, LOOT exposes the criminal network that used child soldiers to violently raid Cambodian temples then delivered blood antiquities to the homes of billionaires and elite western museums.
Director: Don Millar
Screenwriter: Don Millar, Ponita Keo, Makara Ouch, Ramesh Reddy, Joe Tucker
Producer: Cole Northey
Cinematographer: Peter CS Lee
Editor: Nick Ogden
Production Design: Ponita Keo
Composer: David Bertok
SPONSORED BY:
LOCAL SHORT FILMS SHOWCASE
SATURDAY, MARCH 21st, 2026
TIME: 1:45PM
120 minutes
Experience the power of storytelling at our Local Short Film Showcase, featuring incredible short films from talented filmmakers across Colorado and the USA! From heartfelt narratives to thought-provoking documentaries, this showcase celebrates diverse voices and creative storytelling within the AANHPI community. Includes post-screening Q&A.
SPONSORED BY:
A CHIP ODYSSEY
SATURDAY, MARCH 21st, 2026
TIME: 4:30PM
106 minutes
Year: 2025 Runtime: 106 minutes Language: Mandarin Country: Taiwan
Directed by award-winning Hsiao Chu-Chen and produced by semiconductor veteran Ben Chen and acclaimed Oscar member Ben Tsiang, this five-year project draws on insights from voices across generations—from early contributors to today’s professionals in the semiconductor industry. A Chip Odyssey traces Taiwan’s journey from humble beginnings to its emergence as a critical pillar of the digital world. Through the eyes of pioneering engineers, female line technicians, frontline policymakers, visionary scientists, and a new generation now facing critical choices, the film reveals how, half a century ago, an entire island came together in a high-stakes gamble to shape its own destiny—and the future of global technology.
Director: Hsiao Chu-chen
Producer: Ben Chen, Ben Tsiang
SPONSORED BY:
CENTERPIECE: CLIMBING FOR LIFE
SATURDAY, MARCH 21st, 2026
TIME: 7:00pm
130 minutes
Year: 2025, Runtime: 130 minutes, Language: Nepali, Japanese
In 1975, a woman made her way to the summit of Mount Everest. Her name is Junko. She became the first woman in history to conquer the world's highest summit. Her glorious achievement captivated the world, casting a radiant light but also a deep shadow on her friends and family. In her later years, even though she was diagnosed with a terminal illness, Junko continued to challenge the mountains throughout her life. What did Junko last see beyond the top?
Director: Junji Sakamoto
Screenwriter: Riko Sakaguchi
Producer: Naoya Kinoshita, Yumiko Takebe, Riuko Tominaga
Cast: Sayuri Yoshinaga, Koichi Sato, Yuki Amami, Non
Cinematographer: Norimichi Kasamatsu
Editor: Shinichi Fushima
SPONSORED BY:
Emerging Artists Showcase
SUNDAY, MARCH 22nd, 2026
TIME: 10:00AM
120 minutes
Discover the creativity and passion of the next generation of storytellers at our Short Film Showcase with an emphasis on student filmmakers! Featuring a diverse selection of short films from students and emerging talent across the country, this showcase highlights fresh perspectives, bold ideas, and innovative storytelling. Includes post-screening Q&A.
REEL BITES: A CULINARY EXPERIENCE
SUNDAY, MARCH 22nd, 2026
TIME: 11:30AM - 1:00PM
A culinary journey celebrating the rich traditions of AANHPI cuisine, where time-honored flavors and modern innovation come together to honor our past and inspire our future
Culinary tastings from over a dozen of Denver’s top AANHPI’s chefs, restaurants, food trucks, and more!
Including Die Die Must Try, Riceboxx Denver, Kids Table, Saigon Noodle Club by PKR, Paborito, Now Pho, Dhakai Sweets LLC, Mukja
In partnership with Mile High Asian Food Week
ONCE UPON A TIME IN HKDSE
SUNDAY, MARCH 22nd, 2026
TIME: 1:00PM
90 minutes
Year: 2024 Runtime: 90 minutes Language: Cantonese Country: Hong Kong
How challenging is the Hong Kong university entrance exam? Is failing it the end of the world? Popular Youtube Channel “Trial & Error” spent 8 months documenting the journey of Hong, an exam candidate that doesn’t give much thought to his future. With the help offer by the team, will Hong be able to make up for the lost time and secure a spot in university?
Director: Leung Yik Ho
Producer: Hui Yin, Neo Yau
Cinematographer: Leung Yik Ho
Editor: Lai Kwun-Tung, Leung Yik Ho, William Chang Suk-Ping
Composer: Jan Curious
Ky Nam Inn
SUNDAY, MARCH 22nd, 2026
TIME: 3:30PM
140 minutes
Year: 2025 Runtime: 140 minutes Language: Vietnamese Country: Viet Nam
Set in 1985 post-war Vietnam, Khang moves to Saigon after securing a position to translate "The Little Prince." Due to his family connections, Khang's life under the new regime is secure. But everything changes when he meets Ky Nam, a reserved older widow who lives in Khang's new community.
Director: Leon Lê
Screenwriter: Nguyễn Thị Minh Ngọc, Leon Lê
Producer: Leon Lê
Executive Producer: Bui Quang Minh, Hoàng Thị Mai Hương, Nathan Hoang, Luc Nhon Ly, Le Thanh Huong, Nguyen Thi Mai Thanh, Quach Ngoc Han, Steve Reid
Co-Producer: Vũ Thành Luân
Cast: Liên Bỉnh Phát, Đỗ Thị Hải Yến, Phương Bình
Editor: Leon Lê
SPONSORED BY:
COMMUNITY CONVERSATION:
CULTURAL THREADS - AANHPI VOICES IN FASHION
SUNDAY, MARCH 22nd, 2026
TIME: 4:30PM - 5:15PM
FREE & OPEN TO THE PUBLIC! WE JUST ASK THAT YOU RESEVE A SEAT.
Cultural Threads - AANHPI Voices in Fashion invites audiences into a dynamic discussion on the intersection of fashion, heritage, and storytelling. Featuring designers and artists making waves in the AANHPI creative space, this program celebrates style as a powerful medium for culture and connection.
Open to the public. $10 Suggested Donation.
CLOSING NIGHT FILM: FORGE
SUNDAY, MARCH 22nd, 2026
TIME: PRE-RECEPTION @ 5:30PM, FASHION SHOW @ 6:00PM, FILM @7:00PM
114 minutes
Year: 2025, Runtime: 114 minutes, Language: Cantonese, English, Country, United States
Celebrate the Closing Night of the Colorado Dragon Boat Film Festival on Sunday, March 22nd with a Pre-Film Reception. Join us in celebrating our theme, Threads of Connection, with a fashion show in our lobby during the reception. The event is included in the Closing Night Film screening ticket.
Forge Synopsis: In Miami, siblings Raymond and Coco Zhang’s art forgery ring flourishes when they encounter a disgraced millionaire in need of their expertise. Meanwhile, FBI Art Crimes agent Emily Lee moves to Miami to investigate a series of mysterious paintings.
Arrive early for the Closing Night Pre-Film Reception to enjoy expertly crafted beverages from 3456tea. They will share their Korean culture by serving teas and complimentary cocktails at our bar, using their finest natural ingredients. To close out our weekend celebrating our theme, Threads of Connection, we will host a fashion show highlighting the panelists from our Community Conversation: Cultural Threads - AANHPI Voices in Fashion. Thank you to Brandon Iwamoto for capturing this evening's looks.
We are honored to showcase the work of the following artists:
Mio Mora Couture (Anu Kochha)
Amihan Artisan Collection (Shiela DeForest)
Tokiprism (Nagisa Corbett)
Deco-Coco (Gaby Oshiro)
Director: Jing Ai Ng
Screenwriter: Jing Ai Ng
Producer: Liz Daering-Glass, Gabrielle Cordero, Jing Ai Ng, Damian Bao
Executive Producer: Dave A. Liu
Cast: Kelly Marie Tran, Andie Ju, Brandon Soo Hoo
Cinematographer: Leo Purman
Editor: Briana Chmielewski
Production Design: Arielle Ness-Cohn
Composer: Ian Chang, Marco Carrión
SPONSORED BY: