Stephanie Chou Performs with The Tong Man and The Curse of Quon Gwon

Experience two early Asian American-focused silent films with a live score by composer, saxophonist, and singer Stephanie Chou and her band.

Experience two early Asian American–focused silent films with a live score by composer, saxophonist, and singer Stephanie Chou and her band.

The Tong Man

Sessue Hayakawa, the first Asian American actor to achieve fame in Hollywood, stars in this crime drama as a hit man for a Chinatown gang. His bosses order him to kill an opium smuggler impinging on their turf. The only problem is the smuggler is the father of the woman he loves. Hayakawa was known for his energetic, macho acting style, and his performance here doesn’t disappoint.

Director: William Worthington. Country: United States. Released: 1919. Length: 58 min. Format: DCP. Silent with English intertitles.

The Curse of Quon Gwon

This romance is not only one of the earliest known Asian American films but also one of the few silent films made by a woman. In the film, a Chinese American family are put under a curse for becoming too “Westernized.” Director Marion Wong plays the film’s villainess, and the cast and crew feature Wong’s family and friends. Curse is an impressive achievement for a first-time director and a bold rejoinder to the stereotypical depictions of Asian characters that were common at the time.

Director: Marion Wong. Country: United States. Released: 1917. Length: 36 min. Format: DCP. Silent.

Stephanie Chou (www.stephaniechoumusic.com) is a composer, saxophonist, and singer based in New York City. She blends Chinese musical influences with Western jazz and pop to create a unique and vibrant musical world. Stephanie’s music creates immediate cross-cultural connections and focuses on connecting with the audience.

Musicians:

Stephanie Chou – voice, alto saxophone, compositions

Andy Lin – erhu, viola, violin

Hyuna Park – piano

Matt Aronoff – bass

Ronen Itzik – drums, percussion

Image Credit: Stephanie Chou photos courtesy of Chou. The Curse of Quon Gwon photo courtesy of Kino Lorber. The Tong Man photo is public domain.

Image Alt Text: A woman in high-contrast lighting holds a saxophone. Behind her a film still of four people posing while sitting.