Wednesday, February 19, 2025

Nan Xiang Soup Dumplings to soft open its Pittsburgh location on February 24.


Nan Xiang Soup Dumplings, a popular New York-based chain specializing in dumplings and southern Chinese cuisine, teased its Pittsburgh opening on social media recently, and has announced a friends-and-family opening on February 23 and a soft opening on February 24. The restaurant's first Pittsburgh location will be located in the Southside Works at the former Sake spot.
📣 Hello, Pittsburgh Family! We’re excited to announce that Nan Xiang is coming soon to @southsideworks at
📍 2773 Sidney St, Pittsburgh, PA 15203

✨ We’ll be joining amazing neighbors like The Cheesecake Factory, Urban Outfitters, and Hyatt House—bringing you the best soup dumplings in town!

Stay tuned and follow us for the latest updates on our Grand Opening—we can’t wait to serve you! ❤️

Nan Xiang Soup Dumplings was first announced for the spot in September 2023, with an opening planned for Spring 2024. 

The restaurant's official site describes its offerings:

Soup dumplings, or xiao long bao (which literally means "little steamer-basket buns" in Mandarin Chinese), originated hundreds of years ago in Nan Xiang, a canal town near Shanghai. Today, soup dumplings are a global icon of Southern Chinese comfort food.
For New Yorkers, the introduction to the best soup dumplings in the state began in 2006 with a family recipe and a small shop in Flushing. Nearly twenty years later, Nan Xiang is synonymous with authentic Southern Chinese cuisine.

. . .

Recognized as having “the best soup dumplings in town” and with a perennial feature in the Michelin Guide, we pride ourselves on being a haven for those who value the warmth of home-cooked meals, family dinners, and community. What does the taste of home mean to you? We hope you’ll find the answer here at Nan Xiang.

2025 Chinese movie Legends of the Condor Heroes: The Gallants (射雕英雄传:侠之大者) in Pittsburgh, from February 20.


The 2025 Chinese movie Legends of the Condor Heroes: The Gallants (射雕英雄传:侠之大者) will play in Pittsburgh from February 20.
The film is adapted from Mr. Jin Yong's classic martial arts work "The Legend of the Condor Heroes". It tells the story of the world of grievances and hatred in the war-torn era of power struggle. Guo Jing (played by Xiao Zhan) left his hometown and acquired huge power of martial arts to change destiny. Although he was valued by Kung Fu Masters and who passed down the world's peerless martial arts "Nine Yin Manual" and "Eighteen Dragon Subduing Palms", jealousy towards him was formed from all parties where he became the target of public criticism. Guo Jing and Huang Rong (played by Zhuang Dafei) turned the tide and protected the Southern Song Dynasty border amidst the rain of arrows with the spirit of gallants.
It plays locally at the AMC Loews Waterfront and tickets are available online.

2025 Chinese animated film Ne Zha 2 (哪吒之魔童闹海), now the top-grossing animated film of all time, remains in Pittsburgh through (at least) February 26.


The 2025 Chinese animated film Ne Zha 2 (哪吒之魔童闹海), which opened in Pittsburgh on February 13, will remain here through at least February 26.
After the catastrophe, although the souls of Nezha and Aobing were saved, their bodies would soon be shattered. Taiyi Zhenren planned to use the seven-colored lotus to rebuild their bodies.
Ne Zha 2 recently became the highest-grossing animated film of all time. It plays locally at the AMC Loews Waterfront, the AMC Westmoreland in Greensburg, and the Cinemark theater in Monroeville, and tickets are available online.

Concert film Ive The First World Tour in Cinema in Pittsburgh, February 26 and March 1.


The concert film Ive The First World Tour in Cinema will play in Pittsburgh on February 26 and March 1.
After traveling across 19 countries during their first-ever world tour, IVE made a passionate return to Seoul for an encore performance of their “SHOW WHAT I HAVE” concert. Now, the dreamlike excitement of their world tour unfolds on the big screen once again – this time in cinemas across the globe. Capturing the energy and the emotion of the concert, this thrilling film features a rich set-list filled with diverse hit songs that made IVE who it is today along with dazzling stage performances, candid band interviews, and exclusive behind-the-scenes videos! This is a special opportunity to dive into IVE for the first time or to relive the special memories from the live concert. Are you ready to ‘LOVE DIVE’?
It is scheduled to play locally, so far, at the AMC Loews Waterfront, and tickets are available online.

Tuesday, February 18, 2025

"Mascots, Cryptids, and UFOs: Civic Monsters in Contemporary Japan," April 10 at Pitt.


The University of Pittsburgh's Asian Studies Center will host Dr. William Tsutsui and his talk "Mascots, Cryptids, and UFOs: Civic Monsters in Contemporary Japan" on April 10.
Why are cute and creepy mascots so ubiquitous among Japan’s cities and regions? Is there a Japanese Bigfoot? Have extraterrestrials ever landed in Japan? This lecture traces the history of Japanese mascots, cryptids, and UFOs, exploring how invented, imagined, and unexplained creatures have been deployed in tourism campaigns, the creation of regional identity, and local commercial boosterism. These “civic monsters” grew from Japan’s rich and distinctive monster culture of folkloric yōkai and cinematic kaijū but are also deeply woven into global circuitries of politics, capitalism, media, and play.

Why are cute and creepy mascots so ubiquitous among Japan’s cities and regions? Is there a Japanese Bigfoot? Have extraterrestrials ever landed in Japan? This lecture traces the history of Japanese mascots, cryptids, and UFOs, exploring how invented, imagined, and unexplained creatures have been deployed in tourism campaigns, the creation of regional identity, and local commercial boosterism. These “civic monsters” grew from Japan’s rich and distinctive monster culture of folkloric yōkai and cinematic kaijū but are also deeply woven into global circuitries of politics, capitalism, media, and play.
It runs from 6:00 to 8:00 pm in the Barco Law Building's Alcoa Room (map).

2001 Hayao Miyazaki film Spirited Away (千と千尋の神隠し) in Oakmont, February 28.


The 2001 Hayao Miyazaki film Spirited Away (千と千尋の神隠し) will play at The Oakls Theater in Oakmont on February 28.
Winner of the Academy Award® for Best Animated Feature, Hayao Miyazaki’s wondrous fantasy adventure is a dazzling masterpiece from one of the most celebrated filmmakers in the history of animation. Chihiro’s family is moving to a new house, but when they stop on the way to explore an abandoned village, her parents undergo a mysterious transformation and Chihiro is whisked into a world of fantastic spirits ruled over by the sorceress Yubaba. Put to work in a magical bathhouse for spirits and demons, Chihiro must use all her wits to survive in this strange new place, find a way to free her parents and return to the normal world. Overflowing with imaginative creatures and thrilling storytelling, Spirited Away became a worldwide smash hit, and is one of the most critically-acclaimed films of all time.
The show runs from 8:00 to 10:05 pm and tickets are $10. The Oakls Theater is located at 310 Allegheny River Blvd. (map).

Monday, February 17, 2025

1988 Japanese animated movie Mobile Suit Gundam: Char's Counterattack (機動戦士ガンダム 逆襲のシャア) in Pittsburgh, March 12 and 16.


The 1988 Japanese animated movie Mobile Suit Gundam: Char's Counterattack (機動戦士ガンダム 逆襲のシャア) will play in Pittsburgh on March 12 and 16, part of an 2024/2025 AX Cinema Nights series over 2024 and 2025.
Universal Century 0093. The previously missing Char Aznable has revived Neo Zeon and declared war against the Earth Federation government. The Londo Bell unit commanded by Bright Noa is forced to fight alone and unaided against the Neo Zeon forces, which have begun dropping asteroids onto the Earth. Among the Londo Bell members is Amuro Ray, Char's longtime rival. But their valiant efforts are in vain as 5th Luna falls onto the planet.

Sensing a further threat behind Char's movements, Amuro heads for the Moon to collect the Nu Gundam, a mobile suit equipped with a psycho-frame. Waiting for him there is its lead developer, Chan Agi. Meanwhile, Bright's son Hathaway Noa meets a girl named Quess Paraya on his way into space, and is instantly attracted to her..
It plays locally at the AMC Loews Waterfront and the Cinemark theater in Robinson, and tickets are available online.

Sunday, February 16, 2025

Attack on Titan: The Last Attack (劇場版「進撃の巨人」 ~THE LAST ATTACK~) stays in Pittsburgh through February 19.


The 2024 compilation film Attack on Titan: The Last Attack (劇場版「進撃の巨人」 ~THE LAST ATTACK~), consisting of the last two episodes of the anime series, will continue playing in Pittsburgh through at least February 19, after opening here February 10.
Attack on Titan: THE LAST ATTACK brings together the last two episodes of the highly acclaimed anime series in the franchise's first-ever theatrical experience delivering the epic finale in a colossal-sized omnibus film. Humanity lived quietly behind massive walls built to protect themselves from the threat of monstrous creatures called Titans. Their century of peace was shattered by an attack on their city that left a young child, Eren Yeager, motherless and vowing revenge on the titans. Years after joining the Survey Corps, Eren finds himself facing a deadly foe, and ultimately gains a special ability that unveils a new truth about the world he knows. After venturing beyond the walls and separated from his comrades, Eren finds himself inspired by this new truth and plots the "Rumbling," a terrifying plan to eradicate every living thing in the world.
It plays locally at the AMC Loews Waterfront, with some shows dubbed in English and others in Japanese with English subtitles, and tickets are available online.

Friday, February 14, 2025

2025 Pittsburgh Lunar New Year Parade, set for February 16, cancelled due to rain forecast.


The 2025 Pittsburgh Lunar New Year Parade, set to march through Squirrel Hill on February 16, has been cancelled due to the forecast of rain. Some festivities have been moved inside the Jewish Cultural Center (JCC).
Unfortunately the weather prediction for Sunday February 16th is 90% chance of rain with intermittent winds. Therefore the Squirrel Hill Urban Coalition and the OCA Asian American Advocates of Pittsburgh decided to cancel the outdoor Lunar New Year parade scheduled for noon on Sunday. As we consider the beginning of the New Year the safety of our performers and participants is essential. We apologize for any inconvenience this cancellation has caused.
The relatively new annual tradition was aiming to return in 2025 after taking 2024 off.

Thursday, February 13, 2025

Opening reception for Jordan Wong (WONGFACE)'s PRACTICE +/-, February 28 at The Portal.


The Portal Art Gallery will host an opening reception for a new exhibition by Jordan Wong (WONGFACE) titled PRACTICE +/- on February 28. From the artist:
PRACTICE +/- builds upon my recent "Play is Infinite" exhibition at the Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh (on view until May). This body of work furthers my imaginative exploration of the Ultimate Self, the endless possibilities of leveling up in life, and the transformative power of play.
The opening reception will be held 5:30 to 7:30 pm on the 28th, and The Portal is located at 6425 Penn Ave in Bakery Square (map).

New Vietnamese restaurant coming soon to Oakland.

Signage went up a little while ago for a new Vietnamese restaurant "bringing the taste of Vietnam to Oakland." It seems to be called Vietnam Vietnam 9 and is located at 338 S. Bouquet St. (map), in what was most recently Beta Bytes. Window signage advertises pho, banh mi, bun bo hue, com dia, bun, chao, heo kho, and bo kho.

The side streets of Oakland, and S. Bouquet would qualify in spite of being a somewhat busy thoroughfare connecting campus to residential areas, have grown bland over the years, with fewer retail and restaurants. This corner of Oakland hasn't had a Vietnamese restaurant in decades, and the general Oakland area hasn't had one since a series of short-lived Vietnamese spots on N. Craig St. in what is now Bomb Chicken.

Annual Matsuri at Carnegie Mellon, February 23.


The Japanese Student Association at Carnegie Mellon University will present its annual Matsuri on February 23, from 12:00 to 6:00 pm in the Rangos Ballroom on the 2nd floor of the Cohon University Center (map).
We are excited to announce CMU JSA’s major event of the year, our spring Matsuri! This year’s theme is 縁日(Ennichi). Translated literally, it means a day of connections and signifies a major festival in Japan.

Join us on February 23rd, from 12-6 PM in the Cohon University Center Rangos Ballroom to play some traditional Japanese games, eat winter-themed Japanese foods, and watch performances from both university students and local Pittsburgh performers.

Feel free to reach out over Instagram or through our website cmujsa.com/matsuri for more information! We look forward to seeing you there!

本格的な冬の寒さも退け暖かい陽が戻ってきたなか、いかがお過ごしでしょうか。カーネギーメロン日本人学生会です。

この度は2月23日に我々が開催する祭りの広報、又ご参加をおねがいしたく連絡させていただいております。テーマは「縁日」ということでこのピッツバーグの冬のなか少しでも日本の夏を思い出していただくことを願いこのイベントを主催しています。日本での祭りを模した食べ物や遊び、パフォーマンスを用意させていただきます。お子様も大歓迎ですのでもしよろしければご家族での参加などを楽しみにしています。場所はカーネギーメロン大学の Cohon University Center の2階にあるRangosという部屋、開場は昼の12時、閉場は午後6時とさせていただきます。

当日にお会い出来るのを楽しみにしています。

Wednesday, February 12, 2025

New time for Pittsburgh Lunar New Year Parade on Sunday, February 16.


Organizers have moved the start time of the Lunar New Year Parde through Squirrel Hill from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm in the hopes of finding warmer weather. The relatively new annual tradition returns in 2025 after taking 2024 off. The parade moves up Murray Ave. from Phillips Ave. to Forbes Ave. (map).

Tuesday, February 11, 2025

New Chinese movie Detective Chinatown 1900 (唐探1900) remains in Pittsburgh through February 19.


The 2025 Chinese movie Detective Chinatown 1900 (唐探1900), which opened in Pittsburgh on January 31, will stay here through at least February 19.
In 1900, a white woman was murdered in Chinatown in San Francisco, and the suspect was a Chinese man. The murder caused social shock, and people demanded the closure of Chinatown.
It plays locally at the AMC Loews Waterfront and tickets are available online.

Win-Win Kung Fu in Squirrel Hill now accepting applications for six-week summer camp for kids' martial arts, fitness, culture, and language training; $30 discount for registration by April 30.

Win-Win Kung Fu Culture Center's annual summer camp returns for six weeks of programming in July, and the school is now accepting applications. 

📅 Camp Schedule:

  • Week 1: July 7 – 11
  • Week 2: July 14 – 18
  • Week 3: July 21 – 25
  • Week 4: July 28 – August 1
  • Week 5: August 4 – 8
  • Week 6: August 11 – 15

📍 Location: Squirrel Hill Studio – 2705-2707 Murray Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15217
⏰ Time: Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM (optional extended care until 5:30 PM)
👧👦 Ages: 5 – 15 years

🌟 What to Expect

✔ Learn Kung Fu/Wushu/Tai Chi from champion masters
✔ Train in martial arts fundamentals
✔ Boost focus, fitness, and confidence with intensive training
✔ Dive into Mandarin language, Chinese culture, games, and movies
✔ Have fun in a supportive and engaging environment

💰 Tuition & Registration

  • $240 per 5-day week (Save $30 when you register by April 30!)
  • 10% discount for siblings
  • New students: One-time $90 registration fee (includes a pair of training shoes, T-shirt, and training pants)
  • Free registration for current Win-Win students
  • Only 25 spots per week – First Come, First Serve!

🔗 How to Register
✔ Current Win-Win students: Complete the selection form and submit a 20% tuition deposit.
✔ New students: Fill out the registration form, sign the waiver, complete the selection form, and submit a 20% tuition deposit along with the $90 registration fee.

Seats fill up fast, so don’t miss out on a summer of fun and learning!

For questions or to register, call (412) 336-8898 or email masters [at] winwinkungfu.com.

The studio is located at 2705 Murray Ave., on the ground floor of the Morrowfield building in Squirrel Hill South (map). 

Monday, February 10, 2025

2025 Pittsburgh Japanese Film Festival lineup announced.


The Row House Cinema in Lawrenceville has announced the lineup today for its annual Pittsburgh Japanese Film Festival, running this year from March 14 through March 27.
Single tickets, ticket packages, and showtime information is now available online. Additional films and special events may be added later. The single-screen theater is located at 4115 Butler St. (map).

2025 Chinese animated film Ne Zha 2 (哪吒之魔童闹海) in Pittsburgh, from February 13.


The 2025 Chinese animated film Ne Zha 2 (哪吒之魔童闹海) will play in Pittsburgh from February 13.
After the catastrophe, although the souls of Nezha and Aobing were saved, their bodies would soon be shattered. Taiyi Zhenren planned to use the seven-colored lotus to rebuild their bodies.
It plays locally at the AMC Loews Waterfront, the AMC Westmoreland in Greensburg, and the Cinemark theater in Monroeville, and tickets are available online.

Saturday, February 8, 2025

1985 Japanese animated movie Vampire Hunter D (吸血鬼ハンターD) in Pittsburgh for 40th anniversary, April 9, 10, and 13.


The 1985 Japanese animated movie Vampire Hunter D (吸血鬼ハンターD) will play in Pittsburgh on April 9, 10, and 13 to mark its 40th anniversary. A synopsis from the distributor:
Anime Expo Cinema Nights Presents special 40th anniversary screenings of the cult classic Vampire Hunter D. In the year 12,090 AD, technology and the supernatural have overtaken the world, leaving the land desolate and despotic. The remnants of humanity are scattered into small communities and live in fear of vampires who compose the ruling Nobility. When Count Magnus Lee tastes the blood of Doris Lang, she is forcibly chosen to be his next wife. In an effort to escape her ill-gotten fate, she hires a mysterious vampire hunter known only as D, who comes from a peculiar lineage.
It is scheduled to play locally, so far, at the AMC Loews Waterfront, though more locations are likely to be announced in the future. Tickets are available online.

Friday, February 7, 2025

New Japanese animated movie Mobile Suit Gundam GQuuuuuuX -Beginning (機動戦士 Gundam GQuuuuuuX - Beginning - ) in Pittsburgh, from February 27.

The new Japanese animated movie Mobile Suit Gundam GQuuuuuuX -Beginning will play in Pittsburgh-area theaters from February 27. A synopsis, from the distributor:
Amate Yuzuriha is a high-school student living peacefully in a space colony floating in outer space. When she meets a war refugee named Nyaan, Amate is drawn into the illegal mobile suit dueling sport known as Clan Battle.

Under the entry name “Machu,” she throws herself into fierce battle day after day, piloting the GQuuuuuuX. Then an unidentified Gundam mobile suit pursued by both the space force and the police appears before her, along with its pilot, a boy named Shuji.

Now their world is about to enter a new era.

The first-ever major collaboration between studio khara, the studio behind the EVANGELION Series, and SUNRISE, the historic home to the Mobile Suit Gundam animated works, brings together an all-star creative team for a groundbreaking new entry to the Gundam universe. Directed by Kazuya Tsurumaki (FLCL), with a screenplay co-written by legendary screenwriter Yoji Enokido (Revolutionary Girl Utena) and acclaimed filmmaker Hideaki Anno (EVANGELION Series), Mobile Suit Gundam GQuuuuuuX -Beginning- is a stunning visual feast that will captivate fans, both old and new.
It is scheduled to play locally, so far, at the Cinemark theater in Monroeville, though more theaters are likely to be added in the future. Tickets are not yet on sale.

Thursday, February 6, 2025

Online tai chi and qigong classes in March from local wushu and tai chi master.


Mengjun Wang, a wushu champion and master instructor at Win-Win Kung Fu Culture Center in Squirrel Hill, will be offering a series of online tai chi and qigong classes.
✨ Start Your Journey to Wellness This March! ✨

🏮 Transform your mind and body with the ancient Chinese practice of Ba Duan Jin. Relieve back pain, digestive issues, anxiety, insomnia, and more!

📅 Flexible Schedule: Suitable for all ages and physical abilities.

💡 Limited-Time Offer: First class is FREE—limited spots available!
Registration can be completed online or via the QR code in the poster.

More dates, theaters announced for 2024 compilation film Attack on Titan: The Last Attack (劇場版「進撃の巨人」 ~THE LAST ATTACK~), February 10, 11, and 12.


More theaters and dates have been announced for Pittsburgh-area screenings of the 2024 compilation film Attack on Titan: The Last Attack (劇場版「進撃の巨人」 ~THE LAST ATTACK~), consisting of the last two episodes of the anime series, from February 10 through 12.
Attack on Titan: THE LAST ATTACK brings together the last two episodes of the highly acclaimed anime series in the franchise's first-ever theatrical experience delivering the epic finale in a colossal-sized omnibus film. Humanity lived quietly behind massive walls built to protect themselves from the threat of monstrous creatures called Titans. Their century of peace was shattered by an attack on their city that left a young child, Eren Yeager, motherless and vowing revenge on the titans. Years after joining the Survey Corps, Eren finds himself facing a deadly foe, and ultimately gains a special ability that unveils a new truth about the world he knows. After venturing beyond the walls and separated from his comrades, Eren finds himself inspired by this new truth and plots the "Rumbling," a terrifying plan to eradicate every living thing in the world.
It plays locally at the AMC Loews Waterfront and the Cinemark theater in Robinson, with some shows dubbed in English and others in Japanese with English subtitles, and tickets are available online.

Wednesday, February 5, 2025

Two information sessions on Huayu Scholarship for Mandarin-language study in Taiwan, February 10 at Pitt.


The University of Pittsburgh's Department of East Asian Languages & Literatures will present two information sessions on Huayu Scholarship for Mandarin-language study in Taiwan on February 10. The scholarship is open to University of Pittsburgh undergraduate and graduate students. The sessions run from 1:30 to 3:00 pm in the Global Hub on the first floor of Posvar Hall (map). More information about the scholarhsip to National Taiwan Normal University is available via this Qualtrics survey.

Tuesday, February 4, 2025

The Way of Tea 茶道: Recital and Ceremony, March 10 at The Art Room.


Pittsburgh Opera will present "The Way of Tea 茶道: Recital and Ceremony" on March 10, part of a series of events surrounding its production of Madama Butterfly starting on March 22.
Ceremony
The tea ceremony, or Chado (The Way of Tea), is a traditional Japanese art involving the ritualistic preparation of tea. Influenced by the philosophy of Zen Buddhism, the core teaching of chado is to attain a spiritual state of selflessness and peacefulness through making and sharing tea. Join us to learn the history and philosophy of Japanese tea ceremony while tasting Japanese tea and sweets.

Yuko Eguchi is a native of Tokyo, Japan and holds a Ph.D. in ethnomusicology from the University of Pittsburgh. She received her tea master title and name, Soyu, in 2009 and the associate professor of tea title in 2013, certified by the head master of the Urasenke school. Yuko has performed and lectured on Japanese traditional arts at various higher institutions.

Recital
Japanese mezzo-soprano, Nozomi Kato, is in demand at leading opera houses in Italy, Spain, Japan and beyond. In particular, she has made a name for herself internationally as Suzuki in Puccini's Madama Butterfly, which she will perform at Pittsburgh Opera in March of 2025 reprising her role in a production originated at Cincinnati Opera (dir: Matthew Ozawa).

The evening of events starts at 6:00 pm, and tickets are available online. The Art Room is located at 2010 Smallman St. in the Strip District (map).

Screening of After Spring, the Tamaki Family (海的彼端), March 1 at Carnegie Mellon University.


Café Philo-Pittsburgh will present a screening of the film After Spring, the Tamaki Family (海的彼端) on March 1.
Join a movie screening of <After Spring, The Tamaki Family…> on Saturday, March 1 at 2pm at CMU.

This documentary delves into the history and identity struggles of the Tamaki family, the largest Taiwanese clan on Japan's Ishigaki Island. Forced into repatriation, the family endured the 228 Incident and 30 years as stateless refugees under U.S. rule in Okinawa. As the first generation ages, the Tamaki children plan a final journey to Taiwan to reconnect with their roots.

This is an event to commemorate the February 28 massacre of 1947 in Taiwan.  

Check-in for the event starts at 1:30 pm, a brief intro will start at 2:00, the film will start at 2:10, and the movie will be followed by a post-screening talk. The events will be held in McConomy Auditorium in the Jared L. Cohon University Center at Carnegie Mellon University (map). The screening is sponsored by Taiwan International Democratic Film Festival (TIDFF), KITA Foundation, Taiwan Aloha, and the Taiwanese Scholar Society in Pittsburgh (TSS).

Chinese movie Creation of the Gods II: Demon Force (封神第二部:战火西岐) continues in Pittsburgh through February 12.


The Chinese movie Creation of the Gods II: Demon Force (封神第二部:战火西岐), which opened in Pittsburgh on January 29, will stay here through (at least) February 12.
Helmed by visionary director Wuershan, Creation of the Gods II: Demon Force continues the epic Fengshen Trilogy adapted from the classic 16th-century Chinese novel Investiture of the Gods. Jiang Ziya and Ji Fa, aided by the Kunlun immortals, lead Xiqi’s defense against the Shang Dynasty’s dark forces. As the battle for the Fengshen Bang intensifies, alliances shift, and secrets emerge in this stunning clash of mortals, gods, and monsters.
It plays locally at the AMC Lowes Waterfront and tickets are available online.

New Chinese movie Detective Chinatown 1900 (唐探1900) remains in Pittsburgh through February 12.


The 2025 Chinese movie Detective Chinatown 1900 (唐探1900), which opened in Pittsburgh on January 31, will stay here through at least February 12.
In 1900, a white woman was murdered in Chinatown in San Francisco, and the suspect was a Chinese man. The murder caused social shock, and people demanded the closure of Chinatown.
It plays locally at the AMC Loews Waterfront and tickets are available online.

2021 Korean film Made on the Rooftop (메이드 인 루프탑) in Pittsburgh, February 11.


The 2021 Korean film Made on the Rooftop (메이드 인 루프탑), also known as Made in Rooftop in accordance with the hangeul title, will play in Pittsburgh, free, on February 11 thanks to ReelQ and City of Asylum.

Pittsburgh-based film organization Reel Q presents screenings of films from all over the world—Argentina, Iran, Pakistan, Taiwan, and many more—that center queer voices and perspectives. This February, Reel Q enters its 11th year of collaboration with City of Asylum with the whimsical rom-com Made on the Rooftop, directed by Kim Jho Gwang-soo. 

Set against the vibrant backdrop of Seoul, Made on the Rooftop is a romantic journey through heartbreak, friendship, and rediscovery. After his breakup with the reserved and closeted Jeong-min, Ha-neul is left heartbroken and homeless, forced to leave not only his lover but also their beloved cat, Ari. Finding refuge with his flamboyant and supportive best friend, Bongsik, Ha-neul tries to mend his heart while navigating life on a rooftop where love, laughter, and second chances are always in the air.

With its candy-colored visuals, witty humor, and heartfelt moments, Made on the Rooftop is an ode to young love and the courage to start over. Perfect for Valentine’s Week, this rom-com reminds us that love, whether romantic or platonic, always has a way of finding us when we need it most. 

Before the screening, join us for our very first Reel Connections, a social speed-friending happy hour! From 6–7 PM, we’ll partake in a lively and fun-filled hour of games, drinks, and snacks, and the chance to meet new friends…or perhaps even something more. Whether you’re coming solo, with your partner, or a group of friends, this is the perfect way to mingle and set the tone for a romantic and joyful Valentine’s Week celebration.

The film played at the 2021 ReelQ Film Festival. This in-person and online screening is free, though tickets are required. It starts at 7:00 pm at Alphabet City on the North Side (map).

Monday, February 3, 2025

2024 compilation film Attack on Titan: The Last Attack (劇場版「進撃の巨人」 ~THE LAST ATTACK~) in Pittsburgh, February 10.


The 2024 compilation film Attack on Titan: The Last Attack (劇場版「進撃の巨人」 ~THE LAST ATTACK~), consisting of the last two episodes of the anime series, will play in Pittsburgh on February 10.
Attack on Titan: THE LAST ATTACK brings together the last two episodes of the highly acclaimed anime series in the franchise's first-ever theatrical experience delivering the epic finale in a colossal-sized omnibus film. Humanity lived quietly behind massive walls built to protect themselves from the threat of monstrous creatures called Titans. Their century of peace was shattered by an attack on their city that left a young child, Eren Yeager, motherless and vowing revenge on the titans. Years after joining the Survey Corps, Eren finds himself facing a deadly foe, and ultimately gains a special ability that unveils a new truth about the world he knows. After venturing beyond the walls and separated from his comrades, Eren finds himself inspired by this new truth and plots the "Rumbling," a terrifying plan to eradicate every living thing in the world.
It plays locally, so far, at the AMC Loews Waterfront and tickets are available online.

Sunday, February 2, 2025

2019 Korean film Parasite (기생충) in Pittsburgh, from February 7.


The 2019 Korean film Parasite (기생충) will play in Pittsburgh from February 7 as an "IMAX Exclusive."
Greed and class discrimination threaten the newly formed symbiotic relationship between the wealthy Park family and the destitute Kim clan.
It plays locally at the AMC Loews Waterfront and tickets are available online.

Saturday, February 1, 2025

IU Concert: The Winning in Pittsburgh, February 5 and 8.


The upcoming concert film IU Concert: The Winning will play in Pittsburgh on February 5 and 8.
The Icon of Firsts: The glistening record of the 100th performance. Relive IU and UAENA's electrifying energy as they light up the Seoul World Cup Stadium with unforgettable performances of masterpieces like 'Love wins all', 'Holssi', 'Shopper', 'Celebrity', 'Last Fantasy'. Witness the spectacular drone show that illuminated the Sangam night sky! The final chapter of The Winning journey comes to life on screen!
It is scheduled to play locally, so far, at the AMC Loews Waterfront and tickets are available online.

Keiko Fukazawa Retrospective: The Space Between at Contemporary Craft, February 7 – May 3; free artist-led tour, February 8.


Contemporary Craft will host Keiko Fukazawa Retrospective: The Space Between from February 7 through May 3, with a free artist-led tour on February 8. From today's press release:

Contemporary Craft Announces Keiko Fukazawa Retrospective: The Space in Between

 

PITTSBURGH, PA (January 2025) – Contemporary Craft is excited to announce its upcoming exhibition, Keiko Fukazawa Retrospective: The Space Between, on view February 7 – May 3, 2025. The exhibition features a comprehensive survey of California-based artist Keiko Fukazawa’s 40-year career, showcasing new works and archival materials. The opening reception will take place on Friday, February 7, 5:30 – 8:00 PM.

 

Influenced by her Japanese heritage and American environment, Fukazawa explores Asian pop culture and social issues through conceptual interpretations of traditional forms. Featuring 30 pieces, the exhibition is organized into three themes: “Culture Clash,” “ARTivism,” and “In Betweenness,” reflecting stages of Fukazawa’s creative evolution as an immigrant artist navigating cultural identities.

 

Through her use of porcelain, Fukazawa highlights ceramic artistry, process, and history advocating for the medium’s importance in the contemporary world. Keiko Fukazawa Retrospective offers a compelling narrative of artistic journey and cultural dialogue, showcasing Fukazawa’s enduring commitment to pushing boundaries and redefining the intersection of tradition, innovation and materiality with her practice.

 

Keiko Fukazawa's work is eclectic, poignant and thought-provoking, exploring themes through distinctive material choices and symbolic representation. This retrospective spans 40 years of her creative evolution, weaving together her Japanese heritage and American environment through conceptual exploration”, said Yu-San Cheng, CC Director of Exhibitions and Operations. “The exhibition invites the audience on an emotional experience, evoking contemplation and insight as they engage with each piece. I hope these selections move you and inspire reflection."

 

Opening Weekend Events

 

Opening Reception: Friday, February 7, 5:30 – 8:00 PM. Free and open to the public. Join us as we celebrate the opening of Keiko Fukazawa Retrospective: The Space Between. Light refreshments will be served.

Artist Talk: Saturday, February 8, 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM. Free, registration required. Keiko Fukazawa will be in the gallery discussing her work and answering questions from visitors.

Book Talk: Conversation with author Laura Gao, February 6 at Pitt.


The University Library System and Alliance of Queer and Underrepresented Asians in Recognition of Intersectionality to Uphold Solidarity (AQUARIUS) will host a conversation with Laura Gao on February 6.
This collaborative event, hosted by ULS and the Alliance of Queer and Underrepresented Asians in Recognition of Intersectionality to Uphold Solidarity (AQUARIUS), brings together a diverse community to engage in meaningful conversation and reflection.

4:30–5:00 PM:

Join our student representative for a book club session, featuring a group reading followed by a discussion. Faculty members and a librarian will facilitate the conversation, offering insights and fostering dialogue around the themes of the book.

5:00–6:00 PM:

Book Talk: A Conversation with Laura Gao

Engage in an intimate roundtable discussion with Laura Gao, moderated by faculty, students, and librarians. The conversation will explore crucial topics such as queer identity, Asian American experiences, and the intersectionality of these themes in contemporary society.
The event runs from 4:30 to 6:00 pm on the first floor of Hillman Library (map).

Friday, January 31, 2025

Kpop Club Night ft DJ CHEN, March 20 at Enclave.


Southside night club Enclave will host a Kpop Club Night with DJ Chen on March 20.
Don’t miss the best dance party on the planet when @kpopclubnight finally touches down in Pittsburgh with mixmaster @djchenofficial serving up the best in Korean music for the dance-floor on Thursday March 20th. Tickets on sale now, get yours now before they sell out!
Tickets are available online. Enclave is located at 1602 E. Carson St. (map).

Tickets go on sale today for Sailor Moon musical Sailor Moon: The Super Live in Pittsburgh, March 12.


A Sailor Moon musical Sailor Moon: The Super Live will play in Pittsburgh on March 12 as the first stop in this year's North American tour. Tickets go on sale today at 10:00 am EST.
Pretty Guardian Sailor Moon: The Super Live, the groundbreaking 2.5D musical, is bringing the iconic “Sailor Moon” world to life across North America like never before. This stunning stage adaptation—based on the legendary manga and anime—transports audiences into a dazzling world of magic, friendship and justice with its electrifying performances, unforgettable choreography and show-stopping music.
The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust provides more detail:
Producers Makoto Matsuda (appare) and Kumiko Yoshii (Gorgeous Entertainment) announced that following its sensational month-long engagement in London, Pretty Guardian Sailor Moon: The Super Live, the world-wide smash hit 2.5D musical sensation based on the wildly popular manga (comic book), will launch a North American tour this March with technical rehearsals and previews held in Pittsburgh, PA and an official opening on March 15 in Austin, TX and in partnership with SXSW (South by SouthWest). www.sailormoonsuperlive.com. With book, lyrics and direction by Kaori Miura (Musical: The Prince of Tennis, Tokyo Revengers The Musical), choreography by Satomi Toma, and music by Go Sakabe and KYOHEI, the visually stunning show follows the stories of Usagi Tsukino, a teenage girl who transforms into the heroic Sailor Moon. Together, with her fellow Sailor Guardians, she battles many dark forces to protect the Earth from evil.

With a mix of action, heartfelt moments, and iconic music, this production sees the manga characters brought to life on stage, in an epic story-telling live show experience guaranteed to wow audiences night after night, creating an unforgettable experience for fans and newcomers alike. Pretty Guardian Sailor Moon: The Super Live will be performed in Japanese with English subtitles.

“At its very basic, ‘Pretty Guardian Sailor Moon’ is about 5 girlfriends banding together to fight for what they believe in... that’s timely,” said writer and director Kaori Miura. “Sailor Moon and her fellow guardians are equipped with powers that help them defeat evil and the characters are imbued with the self-determination to have agency and make their own confident decisions. In short, they are the ultimate example of ‘girl power.’”
It will play at the Byham Theater in downtown's Cultural District (map) and tickets will go on sale today, January, 31 at 12:00 pm EST.

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