Sunday morning channel surfing while multi-tasking brought this gem of an independent short film to my television. Akira’s Hip Hop Shop is about an interracial relationship that’s rarely talked about let alone became the focus of a film. Asian male – black female couples are very rarely seen. This blog post is not about the sociological reasons why that coupling is not seen as frequently as Black male – Asian female couples or any other combination of couples.
Akira (James Kyson Lee) is faced with many daunting choices in addition to his love for Daphne (Emayatzy Corinealdi). Family pressures and ultimatums weigh heavily on his decisions regarding his relationship with Daphne and commitment to fulfilling his personal dreams and aspirations. Daphne is forced to decide how she will live out her dreams.
Outside of the Asian male-black female, the movie is much of the same old things --- stereotypes about sex and disapproving family and friends. While Akira and Daphne are of different ethnic backgrounds, their similar interests in music and Asian culture make for refreshing dialog. They also find they are a lot more similar than different.
This is a short film. The full-length version of the movie (37 minutes) is available on Amazon.com and fills in the gaps of the shortened version but you still want more of this film. I don’t want to spoil the movie if you haven’t seen it; if you like romantic comedy with a little drama, check out Akira’s Hip Hop Shop.
Official Trailer: Akira’s Hip Hop Shop
Official Website: Akira’s Hip Hop Shop
Rent it or buy it online: Akira’s Hip Hop Shop
Follow Akira’s Hip Hop Shop on Twitter.
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