 |
|
|
|
|
A one-man social service agency and poet, Al Robles is truly one of Asian America's hidden gems, the link to the disappearing bachelor society that came from the Philippines in the 1920s and '30s. He records, interprets, and channels their stories. We accompany Al in his wanderings while he tells the manong's tales of isolation, struggle, and merriment. Though affable and approachable, he remains enigmatic and mysterious. No question ever receives a direct answer, and he always deflects attention away from himself. Whether on foot or on the bus, he is always out the door by 6:30 a.m. His answering machine messages go unheeded. Without e-mail, cell phone, or any other modern leash, the only way to reach him is a chance meeting on the Muni bus. The filmmaker follows Al through San Francisco's Chinatown and Manilatown, on the road, and in the farm country of Watsonville and Delano as he befriends the downtrodden and represents the dispossessed. Though Al's musical talents also grace much of the action, it is his mesmerizing performance at poetry readings that shine through.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Save this program to your list of favorites: |
|
 |
|
| Email program information to a friend: |
|
 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
