The Shangri-la Café

As I watched the movie spool to the end, two names came to mind, one local, the other national. The former was Bill Murata, known after Dec. 7, 1941 as "Chew Gum Long," the Chinese magician/comedian. The latter was Jack Soo, aka Goro Suzuki, according to the IMDb mini biography. The former regained his Hawaii identity after World War II, the latter kept his stage name and went on to an interesting career as a character actor. Identity can be inconvenient, requiring a change as circumstances demand. But doing the right thing can take even more courage, especially when you have no/few cards to play. But it only takes one to change the game. An interesting tale, seen by a child, puzzled by the strange world of adults.

This is a movie for all ages and ethnicities. Mr. Brooks's assistance with the cinematography is outstanding. The professional performers were superior. Acknowledging the fact of how many film festival awards this film has received, I am not surprised. This is a first rate debut of an unaccustomed style in film-making. I was very impressed with costumes for the era of the film.......again outstanding. The American Film Institute has yet again found an exciting new director in Lily Mariye. I can't over-emphasize how everyone should see this film. Too A.F.I. "two thumbs up". Go to your video stores now. Great piece of work!!!