Support American Wei: A Journey of Identity (Short Film)

ABOUT THIS FILM

American Wei is a short film that follows Wei, a 25-year-old working at a mattress store in Los Angeles, as he navigates the complexities of his identity and American dreams after receiving unexpected results from a DNA ancestry test. As Wei unravels his heritage, he confronts stereotypes and challenges, all while exploring what it truly means to belong in a rapidly evolving world.

DIRECTOR'S STATEMENT

Hello, I’m Will Mazzola, a Brazilian filmmaker excited to bring American Wei to life. This story follows Wei, a young man in Los Angeles who, after surprising DNA test results, embarks on a journey to uncover his roots and discover his place in the world. His quest for belonging challenges stereotypes and societal expectations, blending humor and heartfelt moments to explore what it truly means to find oneself. With over a decade of experience, including my award-winning short Andean Condor, I’ve seen how stories like Wei’s foster empathy and understanding. Your support will help us bring this impactful film to audiences everywhere, and I thank you for joining us on this journey.

WHY IS THIS STORY IMPORTANT?

In a time when representation matters more than ever, American Wei tells an honest, heartfelt story that resonates across cultures. This film is more than a story of self-discovery; it’s a celebration of underrepresented voices, inviting viewers into a journey that challenges stereotypes and affirms the importance of identity. Through Wei’s experience, we hope to spark meaningful conversations and foster a greater understanding of the Asian American experience. Every donation directly supports a dedicated, award-winning team committed to bringing this narrative to life with authenticity and care. By choosing to support American Wei, you’re not only contributing to a film but also to a movement for inclusive storytelling that celebrates our shared humanity. Together, we can bring this important story to the screen, and we’re grateful to have you as a part of this journey.

WHY WE ARE DIFFERENT

American Wei stands out because it brings together a diverse group of passionate filmmakers, each with a unique perspective on culture and identity. The film explores the universal journey of self-discovery, blending humor with insightful moments to tell the story of Wei, a young man on a quest to understand his roots after an unexpected DNA test. This diverse collaboration, combined with the support of Becine—a women-owned camera rental company with a passion for visual storytelling—ensures that American Wei will be a film that reflects the rich tapestry of experiences that define modern life. Our team’s shared commitment to authenticity, inclusivity, and human connection is what makes this project truly special.

WHO ARE WE?

We are a diverse and passionate team united by our commitment to bringing American Wei to life. Director Will Mazzola shapes the film with his engaging storytelling and visual style, while writer Eduardo "Duda" Hernandez crafts a story that explores identity and cultural roots. Line Producer Sofia Sioris keeps the production on schedule and within budget, ensuring smooth logistics throughout. Producer Nick Batanides, who also brings his cinematography and camera expertise, contributes his technical and production skills to the project. Oliver Wang, Carly Wilson and Allen Marsh bring depth and authenticity to their roles as Wei, Ama, and Cesar. With the support of Ubatuba Açai, known for bringing the energizing benefits of açai to the world, and Becine, a women-owned rental house dedicated to providing top-tier equipment and service, we are a collaborative team focused on delivering a meaningful and impactful film.

Thank you so much for supporting American Wei. Whether or not you’re able to donate, your support means the world to us! Sharing, liking, and spreading the word about our campaign makes a real impact. Every bit helps us bring this important story to life, and we’re grateful for your involvement. Thank you for being part of this journey!