R.I.S.E.

Wow, just wow. R. I. S. E. By Steve Nguyen & Studio APA really hit me hard. I knew a little about Vincent Chin's story before watching, but this short film made it feel so real. The animation is simple but powerful, and the way they tell the story. It's quiet, haunting, but also full of meaning. You can feel the injustice, the pain, but also the strength of the people who fought back.

It's crazy how something that happened in 1982 still feels way too relevant today. The film doesn't shove a message in your face, but you walk away knowing this isn't just history. Sad how even in 2025 racism & hate crimes are still a thing, and we need to remember these stories.

It's short, but it sticks with you. Highly recommend if you care about social justice or just want to see a beautifully done, important piece of animation.

R. I. S. E. is an animated short that truly delivers a heartfelt and inspiring message. Directed by Choz Belen and Steve Nguyen, the film blends strong storytelling with visually striking animation, making it an engaging watch from start to finish. The film's strength lies in its emotional depth. The characters, voiced by Lexi Carpenter, Marcus Carpenter, and Julius Lopina-Carpenter, bring authenticity to the narrative. You can tell a lot of passion went into this project, and it pays off. Another highlight is the soundtrack, especially Good, Bad, Ugly by Lecrae, which fits perfectly with the film's themes. The music adds an extra layer of emotion, making certain scenes hit even harder. While the short is impactful, I do wish it was a bit longer. The themes are strong, but with more time, they could have been explored even further. That said, R. I. S. E. still manages to leave a lasting impression and delivers an important message in a way that feels genuine and powerful.

This is a mesmerizing blend of surreal animation and haunting music. Steve Nguyen's direction and animation style captivate from start to finish, with an eerie, dreamlike quality that sticks in your mind long after viewing. The fluidity of the visuals combined with the atmospheric music composition by Jorge Brenes and James Cano creates a deeply immersive experience. The attention to detail in the animation, paired with the subtle yet powerful narrative, draws viewers into an emotional journey. Steve Nguyen has undoubtedly set a new standard for animated music videos, making Lovercraft a standout masterpiece in the genre. It's a perfect showcase of Nguyen's talent for marrying abstract art with emotion, leaving an unforgettable impression. 10/10 - a true work of art!

I had the privilege of watching R. I. S. E. (2015), and it absolutely blew me away. As an animated short film directed by Steve Nguyen and Choz Belen, it takes storytelling to a whole new level. The animation is stunning-every frame feels like it's crafted with care, and the visuals perfectly complement the powerful message the film conveys.

What really stood out to me was the depth of emotion packed into such a short runtime. The film explores real-life struggles faced by young people seeking education, and it's both heartbreaking and inspiring to witness their determination. The way the animation brings these stories to life, making them feel so personal, is truly remarkable.

I also love the social impact aspect of the film. It's clear that the creators wanted to shed light on global educational disparities, and they did so in a way that's accessible and incredibly moving. Watching this film left me feeling motivated to take action in my own way.

A perfect blend of artistry and activism, R. I. S. E. is a 9/10 for me. It's a mustwatch for anyone who appreciates thoughtful storytelling and beautiful animation.