INCANDESCENT FILM FESTIVAL --- 3RD PLACE --- "GRANDPA CHERRY BLOSSOM" BY MADDOX CHEN

Artist's Statement --- I was inspired to make this film when I heard about the plaque that was being made to honor Francis Uyematsu. I had never heard of Francis Uyematsu before, and when I looked into him more, I was shocked to learn that he had previously owned all of Mira Costa's land, which is my high school, and the incredibly successful flower nursery he started. Francis Uyematsu had an immense impact on this community but wasn't really given the recognition he deserves, which motivated me to make the documentary. With this film, I hoped to spread awareness of Francis’ legacy and impact in the United States. He was an Asian American that was able to overcome a lot of adversity and achieve great success in a country that was against him. Francis became a pillar of his community, and I think his story is an important and inspiring one to tell, especially for Asian Americans.