YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9usFQPaqEg4
Apple TV: https://tv.apple.com/us/movie/damaged-2024/umc.cmc.2eyj4d1ys6et1ylreaesmpi8h?action=play
GooglePlay https://play.google.com/store/movies/details?id=F740P7PI4Xg.P
Fandango: https://www.vudu.com/content/browse/details/Damaged/2983931?cmp=OrganicSearch~Vudu~GoogleWatch
Great review of the new movie Damaged over at the Chicago Sun. Coming out this weekend.
Super excited!
Full article here: https://chicago.suntimes.com/movies-and-tv/2024/04/10/damaged-review-samuel-l-jackson-movie-chicago-scotland
Prepare to question everything you thought you knew about the world’s greatest mysteries and darkest corners. We’re kicking off Season 4 with a bang, unraveling the threads of history’s most scandalous conspiracies and unexplained phenomena. From the possibility of octopuses as extraterrestrial gourmets of our oceans to the haunting twists behind the Astroworld tragedy, we’re leaving no stone unturned.
Grab your magnifying glass and join us—we’re examining the intricate fabric of reality itself. What if Winnie the Pooh isn’t just a cuddly children’s character but an allegory for something far more profound? And Bruce Lee’s untimely demise—could it be an ancient martial arts secret or merely an aquatic accident? Be the first to join us on April 18th as we explore whether extraterrestrial forces had a hand (or tentacle) in scripting the Holy Bible, and debate whether our journey could take us plummeting off the edge of a flat Earth—or into an interdimensional safety net. With Dwayne by our side, we’re navigating these mind-bending inquiries and sharing our wildest findings.
Please consider supporting us on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/unofficialofficialstory
ABOUT US
What are “they” not telling us? We’ll find out, figure out, and, when all else fails, make up the missing pieces to some of the most scandalous conspiracies, unexplained phenomena, and true crime affecting our world today. Join comedian Dwayne Perkins, writer Koji Steven Sakai, and comedian/actor/writer Cat Alvarado on The Unofficial Official Story Podcast every month, and by the end of each episode, we’ll tell you what’s really…maybe…happening.
Website: http://unofficialofficialstory.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theunofficialofficialstorypod/
X: https://twitter.com/TheUnofOfStory
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@unoffoffstorypodcast
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCxGCoSTC0bmTk5GVFHP4l3w
CREDITS
The intro and outro song was created by Brian “Deep” Watters. You can hear his music at https://soundcloud.com/deepwatters.
Written by Koji Steven Sakai
Hosts: Cat Alvarado, Dwayne Perkins, and Koji Steven Sakai
Edited and Produced by Koji Steven Sakai
Strap in for a quick, thrilling recap of our unforgettable third season! We ventured into psychopathic supermarket encounters, delved into past-life ponderings, and toyed with tantalizing alien theories. Remember the chilling Sam Haskell story or the wit of comedian Jasmine Ellis? From skeptics to adventurers, we juggled science, faith, and the supernatural. As we bid this season goodbye, get ready for a cosmic journey next season, debating if our ancestors were chummy with extraterrestrials and dissecting the unofficial, yet oh-so-official tales of our world. Hold on tight!
Please consider supporting us on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/unofficialofficialstory
ABOUT US
What are “they” not telling us? We’ll find out, figure out, and, when all else fails, make up the missing pieces to some of the most scandalous conspiracies, unexplained phenomena, and true crime affecting our world today. Join comedian Dwayne Perkins, writer Koji Steven Sakai, and comedian/actor/writer Cat Alvarado on The Unofficial Official Story Podcast every month, and by the end of each episode, we’ll tell you what’s really…maybe…happening.
Website: http://unofficialofficialstory.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theunofficialofficialstorypod/
X: https://twitter.com/TheUnofOfStory
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@unoffoffstorypodcast
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCxGCoSTC0bmTk5GVFHP4l3w
CREDITS
The intro and outro song was created by Brian “Deep” Watters. You can hear his music at https://soundcloud.com/deepwatters.
Written by Koji Steven Sakai
Hosts: Cat Alvarado, Dwayne Perkins, and Koji Steven Sakai
Edited and Produced by Koji Steven Sakai
“He’s toying with you, Glen.” Lionsgate has revealed an official trailer for the film Damaged, a mysterious serial killer action thriller from the UK. It’s now set for release in the US in early April both on VOD and in theaters. The film follows Dan Lawson, a Chicago detective, who travels to Scotland to link up with Scottish Det. Glen Boyd, following the resurgence of a serial killer who’s crimes match an unsolved case that he also looked into five years previous in Chicago. What is the connection? Samuel L. Jackson stars as Lawson, and Scottish actor Gianni Capaldi co-stars as Boyd, also credited on co-writing the screenplay. The official synopsis asks: “How do you catch a brilliant monster?” So this is Silence of the Lambs again? The cast also includes Vincent Cassel, Laura Haddock, John Hannah, Katie Dickie, and Brian McCardie. This doesn’t look as bad as it could, though does seem like another generic serial killer thriller plot. Worth a look.
“Evil is closer thank you think.” How do you catch a brilliant monster? When a sadistic murderer surfaces in Scotland, terrified local authorities call on a Chicago police detective who investigated a killing spree with the same horrific pattern 5 years earlier. Samuel L. Jackson and Vincent Cassel star in this shocking thriller about two detectives with tortured pasts trying to stop a merciless serial killer before he claims his next victim. Damaged is directed by British TV director / filmmaker Terry McDonough, director of the TV movies Instinct and Anthony previously, plus lots of TV work including episodes of “Breaking Bad”, “The Expanse”, “Better Call Saul”, “Cold Feet”, and “Killing Eve”. The screenplay is written by Paul Aniello, Koji Steven Sakai, and actor Gianni Capaldi. It’s produced by Paul Aniello and Roman Kopelevich. Lionsgate will debut Damaged in select US theaters + on VOD starting April 12th, 2024 this spring. Anyone interested?
https://www.firstshowing.net/2024/vincent-cassel-samuel-l-jackson-in-thriller-film-damaged-trailer
In the second episode of the Japanese America Podcast, Koji Steven Sakai and Michelle Malizaki discuss the 1984 film “The Karate Kid,” exploring its portrayal of Japanese culture and reimagining some of its iconic scenes to highlight issues of cultural representation and racism. They touch upon the significance of Mr. Miyagi’s backstory of being in a Japanese American internment camp during World War II and the impact it had on audiences. The episode also speculates humorous updates to the film, such as having all Asians secretly know martial arts or turning Cobra Kai into a K-pop dance troupe.
ABOUT OUR PERFORMERS
Dom Magwili is a lecturer for the Department of Asian American Studies at California State University Fullerton. Dom has been an active novelist, playwright, screenwriter, and actor.
Terence Chin (he/him) (Daniel) is an actor starting in the film industry. Recently graduated from Cal State LA with a bachelor’s degree in Theatre Arts. During his years at Cal State LA, Terence has been in numerous plays, musicals, and student films.
LINKS
“The Karate Kid” 30th Anniversary Panel Discussion, Q+A https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kjfNyjlLa88&t=1s
Rotten Tomatoes: https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/karate_kid
ABOUT US
Welcome to “Japanese America,” where the Japanese American National Museum unveils captivating stories that add a Nikkei slant to the American narrative. In each episode, we explore Japanese Americans’ unique experiences, challenges, and triumphs, illuminating their rich contributions to the mosaic of American life. From historical milestones to contemporary perspectives, join us for an insightful journey showcasing the diverse tapestry of a community that has shaped the American story in extraordinary ways. Welcome to “Japanese America,” where each story unfolds like a chapter in a living history book.
For more information about the Japanese American National Museum, please visit our website at www.janm.org.
CREDITS
The music was created by Jalen Blank
Written by Koji Steven Sakai
Hosts: Michelle Malazaki and Koji Steven Sakai
Edited and Produced by Koji Steven Sakai in Conjunction with the Japanese American National Museum
Comic book aficionado Dorian Reyes Black joins us in a captivating excursion through the alleys of Gotham and the boundless universe of DC, where we tackle the tantalizing ‘what ifs’ of Batman’s lore and the enduring appeal of the Joker’s mayhem. We explore the gravitational pull of Batman and his cohort within the DC realm, and Dorian shares his transformation from a Marvel partisan to a connoisseur of DC’s deep-seated narratives, as we celebrate the human resilience and societal roles reflected in our beloved caped crusaders.
Listen wherever you normally hear your podcasts or go to https://www.buzzsprout.com/2277341/14521315-what-if-batman-s-parents-didn-t-die.mp3?download=true
Super excited to announce the show I wrote three episodes for!
“House of the Owl” (original title), which was announced as an original drama series for Disney Plus “Star” starring Min Tanaka and Mackenyu Arata, has now been renamed as “A Man Called Owl” in Japanese. Exclusive distribution will be decided from Wednesday, April 24th. The film takes on the challenge of a new genre: a social political drama that delves into the taboos and behind-the-scenes aspects of the nation.
Min Tanaka plays Ryutaro Ogami, also known as “The Owl” Ryutaro Ogami, also known as “The Owl”, is the mastermind behind the nation who has solved all sorts of scandals and sensational incidents, sometimes by covering them up and sometimes by exposing them to the light. Contrary to his father, who is like a dark hero and repeatedly works behind the scenes to “correct the path,” Oishinryu lives a life that is the opposite and advocates “justice.” The son of the next prime minister candidate, who had close ties with the Ogami family, dies under mysterious circumstances, and Ryutaro approaches the true nature of the great evil lurking in the political world, with Ryutaro from behind the scenes and Ryu from the front. Min Tanaka, the “father” who “corrects the course” and Mackenyu Arata, the “son” who wants to “correct the world” The main character, Ryutaro Ogami, will be played by Min Tanaka, who is also known as a world-renowned dancer and support player. Ryutaro’s son, Ryu Ogami, will be played by Mackenyu Arata, who has appeared in numerous hit movies and is currently active overseas. A father who works behind the scenes to “correct the course” and a son who directly acts to “correct the world,” a father and son who are polar opposites, use the same incident as a turning point to take action. The teaser visual released this time shows Ryutaro staring at us with his sharp eyes, just like an owl. As symbolized by the copy, “His eyes see through the darkness of this country,” the visuals raise expectations for Tanaka’s role as Ryutaro, who acts behind the scenes as the nation’s mastermind. The executive producer and scriptwriter for this film is David Shin of Iconic Pictures, who is known for the hit drama “The Love That Spends Time” and works on producing and distributing content from Japan and other Asian countries. He has held senior management positions at major film, television, and media companies in Asia for more than 25 years, and he has taken on forbidden themes that could not be depicted with Japanese staff and cast alone, and is presenting the best of Japan and overseas that only Disney+ can do. Create works that combine. Shin expressed confidence, saying, “It was a wonderful collaboration between Japanese and international talent to bring this unique work to life.” In addition, the directors will be Yoshitaka Mori of “Space Brothers,” “Sacred Youth,” and “Parallel World Love Story,” Yuya Ishii of “Moon,” “Knitting a Boat,” and “Inazuma in Love,” and “Noise” Filmmakers such as Yusaku Matsumoto of “It’s All My Fault” and “Winny.” The three artists, who have drawn fascinating human dramas in a variety of works, will enliven this original drama series on a grand scale that can only be found on Disney Plus, while interweaving intricate storylines and thrilling depictions. Director Mori, who was in charge of the main production, said, “I was moved day by day by the acting that only Min could do, throwing 100% of his body into every scene.” “Kenyu Maca did not have to worry about unnecessary embellishments or calculations.” He highly praises the main cast members Tanaka and Arata, saying, “He cuts down and enters the scene with a high degree of concentration and an overwhelming sensitivity hidden within. He is an amazing actor.” Looking back, he said, “It was like a real parent and child,” as the two played a “serious battle” as they played the role of a parent and child with a special relationship. Expectations are high for this world-class original drama series, which will feature the chemical reactions created by a gorgeous cast and the collaboration of talented overseas and Japanese creators. Full comment ◆ David Shin (Executive Producer & Screenplay) What makes Japan’s political intrigues and suspicions unique is the role of powerful people known as masterminds. They have played important roles in many fields such as business, politics, and entertainment. Although this story is completely fictional, the characters are inspired by many people I met while working and living in Japan. When I was working in this country as a businessman, there were things I didn’t understand and felt the power behind many transactions. I thought that not only foreigners but also many Japanese people felt shrouded in mystery, so I became interested in mysterious figures who wield power and influence. What I wanted to try was to create a contemporary Japanese work using Hollywood-style storytelling. This work can be called a hybrid work in many ways. It required high production values in terms of acting, sets, cinematography, and storyline. It was a great collaboration between Japanese and international talent to bring this unique piece to life. ◆Yoshitaka Mori (Main Director) The core of the character Ryutaro, who Min and the director team worked together on, is “a strong resentment toward politics and society.” As we worked together to shape this idea, all of the words that Mr. Min came up with were very stimulating. “The Sorcerer Who Lives in the World of Intellect”, “The King of Scenes”, and “The Sacrifice of the World”. He humbled himself by saying, “I’m just starting out as an actor,” but I was moved every day by the acting that only Min could do, throwing 100% of his body into every scene. During the shoot, Mackenyu was approaching the work with an attitude that was exactly as he said, “How close do you get to the depth?” Eliminating unnecessary embellishments and calculations, he enters the scene with a high level of concentration and overwhelming sensitivity hidden within. Through these fluctuations, the young man named Ryu because of his father’s blood approaches the depths of magma-like anger and loneliness one step at a time. That’s a very bold and courageous approach. He’s a great actor. The scenes in which the two co-starred in this work were truly a serious competition. After the photoshoot was over, the two of them looked like real father and son again, as they communicated their excitement to each other in few words, saying, “It was definitely my son,” and “My father was there.” “A Man Called Owl” will air episodes 1 to 5 starting April 24th (Wednesday), episodes 6 and 7 starting May 1st (Wednesday), and ending episode 8 starting May 8th (Wednesday). Up to 10 episodes will be distributed on Disney Plus “Star”.
Explore the life and enduring legacy of Yuri Kochiyama, a Japanese American woman whose experiences during WWII in concentration camps ignited her transformation into a civil rights icon. In this podcast episode, hosts Koji Steven Sakai and Michelle Marizaki delve into the intimate thoughts and profound adversities captured in Yuri’s diary. From tales of community resilience within the camps to discussions on identity and patriotism, this episode honors Kochiyama’s empathetic activism and challenges us to reflect on the true meaning of citizenship. Join us in paying tribute to a beacon of the civil rights movement and the resilient spirit that defines the Japanese American experience.
ABOUT OUR PERFORMER
Sierra is a standup comic, writer, and actor. She recently shot her first hourlong standup special with Comedy Dynamics and can be seen playing Evangeline on Mindy Kaling’s The Sex Lives of College Girls on Max. In the past, she was part of the main cast of The G Word with Adam Conover on Netflix and voiced characters for Disney’s Raya and the Last Dragon. She has also written for shows like Exploding Kittens (Netflix), Close Enough (Max), Earth To Ned (Disney+), and Eureka! (Disney+).
LINKS
https://www.nps.gov/people/yuri-kochiyama.htm
JANM Online collection link for Yuri Kochiyama:
https://janm.emuseum.com/groups/yuri-kochiyama–mary-nakahara–collection/results
ABOUT US
Welcome to “Japanese America,” where the Japanese American National Museum unveils captivating stories that add a Nikkei slant to the American narrative. In each episode, we explore the unique experiences, challenges, and triumphs of Japanese Americans, illuminating their rich contributions to the mosaic of American life. From historical milestones to contemporary perspectives, join us for an insightful journey through the curated collection of the Japanese American National Museum, showcasing the diverse tapestry of a community that has shaped the American story in extraordinary ways. Welcome to “Japanese America,” where each story unfolds like a chapter in a living history book.
For more information about the Japanese American National Museum, please visit our website at www.janm.org.
CREDITS
The music was created by Jalen Blank
Written by Koji Steven Sakai
Hosts: Michelle Malazaki and Koji Steven Sakai
Edited and Produced by Koji Steven Sakai in Conjunction with the Japanese American National Musem
Explore the life and enduring legacy of Yuri Kochiyama, a Japanese American woman whose experiences during WWII in concentration camps ignited her transformation into a civil rights icon. In this podcast episode, hosts Koji Steven Sakai and Michelle Marizaki delve into the intimate thoughts and profound adversities captured in Yuri’s diary. From tales of community resilience within the camps to discussions on identity and patriotism, this episode honors Kochiyama’s empathetic activism and challenges us to reflect on the true meaning of citizenship. Join us in paying tribute to a beacon of the civil rights movement and the resilient spirit that defines the Japanese American experience.
ABOUT OUR PERFORMER
Sierra is a standup comic, writer, and actor. She recently shot her first hourlong standup special with Comedy Dynamics and can be seen playing Evangeline on Mindy Kaling’s The Sex Lives of College Girls on Max. In the past, she was part of the main cast of The G Word with Adam Conover on Netflix and voiced characters for Disney’s Raya and the Last Dragon. She has also written for shows like Exploding Kittens (Netflix), Close Enough (Max), Earth To Ned (Disney+), and Eureka! (Disney+).
LINKS
https://www.nps.gov/people/yuri-kochiyama.htm
JANM Online collection link for Yuri Kochiyama:
https://janm.emuseum.com/groups/yuri-kochiyama–mary-nakahara–collection/results
ABOUT US
Welcome to “Japanese America,” where the Japanese American National Museum unveils captivating stories that add a Nikkei slant to the American narrative. In each episode, we explore the unique experiences, challenges, and triumphs of Japanese Americans, illuminating their rich contributions to the mosaic of American life. From historical milestones to contemporary perspectives, join us for an insightful journey through the curated collection of the Japanese American National Museum, showcasing the diverse tapestry of a community that has shaped the American story in extraordinary ways. Welcome to “Japanese America,” where each story unfolds like a chapter in a living history book.
For more information about the Japanese American National Museum, please visit our website at www.janm.org.
CREDITS
The music was created by Jalen Blank
Written by Koji Steven Sakai
Hosts: Michelle Malazaki and Koji Steven Sakai
Edited and Produced by Koji Steven Sakai in Conjunction with the Japanese American National Musem
Join comedian Nat Baimel and the Unofficial Offical hostts for a laughter-filled journey through the heartwarming and hilarious corridors of Hallmark cards, where humor often hugs the line of appropriateness and 9-11 themed greetings become a subject of disbelief. This episode takes us from the complexities of modern love sealed with a stamp to the curious origins of Valentine’s Day, all while pondering the profound in the everyday – from past life musings to the societal pressures of holiday traditions. Get ready to end the season with a blend of chuckles, philosophical banter, and a dash of awkward Valentine’s Day memories that might just have you rethinking the sentiment behind your next greeting card purchase.
Please consider supporting us on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/unofficialofficialstory
ABOUT OUR GUEST
Nat Baimel is a comedian, upbeat problem solver, awkward philosopher, and optimistic nihilist with a knack for always looking on the bright side. His dark, smart, well-crafted material often tackles the most serious of subjects in a silly manner that will make you laugh as much as it will make you think.
RESEARCH
We do most of our research online… because why not? Here are the links we quoted from or used as inspiration
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hallmark_holiday
https://misbar.com/en/factcheck/2021/02/15/hallmark-did-not-invent-valentines-day
https://www.bbc.co.uk/newsround/16945378
ABOUT US
What are “they” not telling us? We’ll find out, figure out, and, when all else fails, make up the missing pieces to some of the most scandalous conspiracies, unexplained phenomena, and true crime affecting our world today. Join comedian Dwayne Perkins, writer Koji Steven Sakai, and comedian/actor/writer Cat Alvarado on The Unofficial Official Story Podcast every month, and by the end of each episode, we’ll tell you what’s really…maybe…happening.
Website: http://unofficialofficialstory.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theunofficialofficialstorypod/
X: https://twitter.com/TheUnofOfStory
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@unoffoffstorypodcast
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCxGCoSTC0bmTk5GVFHP4l3w
CREDITS
The intro and outro song was created by Brian “Deep” Watters. You can hear his music at https://soundcloud.com/deepwatters.
Written by Yohanna Kim
Hosts: Cat Alvarado, Dwayne Perkins, and Koji Steven Sakai
Edited and Produced by Koji Steven Sakai
Koji Steven Sakai 