This cycle showcases the cinematic works of filmmakers from East Asian diasporas, exploring North American identity in their films.
Ru is inspired by the story of the arrival of Kim Thúy (Tinh) in Quebec. After a perilous sea crossing, young Vietnamese Tinh and her family arrive in Quebec, where they begin their new life. Thanks to a warm welcome from everyone, including the family who sponsors them, Tinh slowly adapts to her new reality. Shy and reserved by nature, Tinh will have to draw from deep within herself the determination needed to adapt to her new reality.
Charles-Olivier Michaud
Charles-Olivier Michaud was born and raised in Quebec City. During extended stays in Europe and Asia, he learned to speak 6 languages. He wrote and directed the films Snow & Ashes (2011) and Anna (2015), which garnered several awards and nominations worldwide. In addition to directing several television series including M’entends-tu?, Boomerang, and Prémonitions, Charles-Oliver published Deux Kilomètres Carrés, a first book of photographic art using the traditional large format method. His works, both cinematic and photographic, explore transformation in silence. He positions himself as an observer who translates the nature of his characters into images. His most recent film Ru is an adaptation of the bestselling novel by writer Kim Thúy. It premiered at TIFF in 2023.
