Every May, Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month honors the contributions and accomplishments of Asian Americans, Pacific Islander Americans, and Native Hawaiians. One way to celebrate this month is by watching movies and shows showcasing AAPI voices and experiences.
AAPI representation and influence in the film and television industry has grown significantly in the past decade. A 2023 study from the University of Southern California's Annenberg Inclusion Initiative noted that in the last 16 years, the percentage of Asian characters with speaking roles onscreen nearly tripled from 3.4% to 15.9%. The increase can be attributed to hits like "Crazy Rich Asians" and "Everything Everywhere All at Once," as well overseas sensations such as "Parasite" and "Squid Game."
