‘Heneral Luna’ premieres at Asian American film festival

The historical film “Heneral Luna,” directed by Jerrold Tarog, will make its world premiere at the 38th Asian American International Film Festival (AAIFF) to be held July 23 to August 1 at various venues in Manhattan and Queens.

Following the life of one of Philippine history’s most brilliant military men, “Heneral Luna” is the story of General Antonio Luna during the Philippine-American war, as he tries to lead his countrymen against colonial masters and rise above their own raging disputes to fulfill the promise of the Philippine Revolution.

As the nation’s first and longest running Asian American film festival, AAIFF 2015 celebrates the contributions of Asian and Asian Americans in media by showcasing new talent, highlighting local filmmakers and paying tribute to the trailblazers of the 21st century.

This year AAIFF 2015 features 10 days of Asian- inspired film and food from the world’s most innovative Asian and Asian American artists. With over 50 films and videos from renowned filmmakers such as Oscar-winning filmmaker Ruby Yang and YouTube sensation WongFu Productions, AAIFF 2015 demonstrates the richness and diversity of Asian American voices in media.

“Heneral Luna” stars John Arcilla, Arron Villaflor, Joem Bascon, Archie Alemania, Alex Medina, Art Acuña, Mon Confiado, Epy Quizon, Bing Pimentel, Mylene Dizon, Alvin Anson, Nonie Buencamino, Lorenz Martinez, Leo Martinez, Ketchup Eusebio, with the special participation of Paulo Avelino.

AAIFF 2015 is excited to return to Queens. Known as one of the fastest-growing Asian American communities in New York and for its diverse Asian food scene, AAIFF 2015 is bringing together neighborhood food trucks and food vendors for five days of free community events including a “Made in Flushing” program to highlight the influence Flushing has had on the Asian American film industry.

The Asian American International Film Festival is a presentation of Asian CineVision. The festival is a celebration of inspiring Asian and Asian American works in film and video from innovative artists around the world. AAIFF 2015 takes place July 23-August 1, 2015 in Manhattan and Queens. Manhattan venues include: Cinema Village East (181-189 2nd Avenue); Asia Society (725 Park Avenue); Museum of Chinese in America (215 Centre Street); Queens venues include: Museum of the Moving Image (36-01 35th Ave, Astoria); Queens Botanical Garden (43-50 Main Street, Flushing); and Flushing Town Hall (13735 Northern Boulevard, Flushing).

To learn more about the full schedule of events, visit the AAIFF website.

Tickets for general admission are $14. Tickets for seniors (65+), students and handicapped (must present valid ID) are $12. Tickets for ACV members and community partners are $10.50. Tickets will be available for purchase on the AAIFF website starting June 23.