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KITES AND OTHER TALES (4K RESTORATION)

Directed by Alan Ohashi

Cast: Tom Joe, Yuki Shimoda

Kites and Other Tales showcases modern kitemaker Tom Joe’s efforts to preserve the traditional craft of kite making and the rich Asian folklore associated with it. The documentary delves into the art of kite making through the eyes of Tom Joe, who seeks to keep alive the ancient stories and techniques from various Asian cultures. The film brings to life tales of Polynesian fish kites made from natural materials to lure fish, Chinese fighting kites used in military strategies, and the grand 20-foot fighting kites of Shirone, Japan. Through vibrant illustrations by Alan Takemoto and animations by Glen Iwasaki, viewers are transported into a world where imagination soars, inspiring children and adults alike to craft their own kites and experience the joy of flight.
This screening marks the World Premiere of the newly completed 4K restoration, presented in celebration of the film’s 50th anniversary.

Credits
Writer: Alan Ohashi
Producer: Visual Communications
Executive Producer: Visual Communications
Director of Photography: Alan Takemoto
Editor: Visual Communications
Production Designer: Qris Yamashita
Sound Designer: Dan Kuramoto, June Kuramoto
Music: Dan Kuramoto, June Kuramoto

Plays in

VC Online

LAAPFF 2025 is excited to present great line up of films from our VC Archives! See our full list of films participating in our Virtual Cinema below.

VC Archives Presents: Peripherals

Blending together seminal works by Visual Communications founders shaped by the spirit of the UCLA EthnoCommunications program and created alongside the LA Rebellion Film Movement era.

Dates & Times

VC Online

May 5, 2025
12:00 am

VC Online

May 6, 2025
12:00 am