Snapchat’s parent company Snap has ordered a six-episode series to spotlight Asian American stories.
Snap has commissioned UK producer Barcroft Studios and BIPOC-owned CALICO for the series titled As I Am.
Each episode follows a character exploring their culture and history, whilst breaking down stereotypes and addressing discrimination.
Rapper and activist China Mac, a stand-up comedian and Dino-Ray Ramos are among those featured.
As I Am is directed by Alice Gu, the feature documentary director behind The Donut King. Executive Producers are John Farrar for Barcroft Studios and Danny Lee for CALICO.
“As a first-generation Asian-American who grew up in the face of racism, this recent wave of hate crimes stoked by fear has turned the clock back dramatically,” Lee said.
“Thanks to our partners at Snap and Barcroft for taking the initiative in addressing the problem organically by providing a platform to show Asian Americans as multidimensional, and ultimately proving we are not your enemy.”
Barcroft’s chief creative officer Farrar added, “these are extraordinary films told by fearless individuals and we feel deeply honoured to assist in amplifying this important message.”
In other film and TV news, Simu Liu has said that the cancellation of Kim’s Convenience “feels like a betrayal.”
