Apathy by Celtic

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GT talks about apathy in the community.


Comments

J said…
Asian Americans do need to flex their economic muscle, but I think AA artists (whether they be musicians, writers, actors, directors) need to put out quality work that actually appeal to an audience.

Let's take AA films: most AA indie films aren’t very appealing. Why would I want to spend the time and money to watch a film that’s a depressing bore? I’m a guy who likes comedy and films with a tight plot, good dialog and a fast pace, so something like “Saving Grace” isn’t going to compell someone like me to go to the theater. If I wanted to reflect on my relationship with my parents and ponder the significance of my cultural heritage, then I’d rather pay for therapy.

This is why Better Luck Tomorrow was so much more successful than any other AA indie film: tight story, fast pace, witty dialog, humorous moments. Race was incidental.

At the same time, however, AA audiences just don't show the love:

Blending into your landscape

There are so many AA blogs and websites being started, but is there really an audience? Even if there was a large AA audience to accommodate all these blogs, does it matter given that the AA audience is so apathetic?

I think what AA blogs do well is to expose their readers to AA artists and AA news. Much of the AA community doesn't support AA artists and films, because the community isn't exposed to these artist and films in the first place.

But what I think AA blogs should start doing is to give its readers a sense of direction. If you're running an AA blog and all you're doing is commenting on the same videos and stories that every other AA blog is commenting on, then what's the point?

You got to mobilize the readers to do something with the knowledge they've been exposed to (HINT: BUY MY BOOK) and spread worthwhile idea viruses that will address their needs and improve their lives.

I think this is where bloggers make the horrible mistake of talking down to their readers as if they morally obligated to inconvenience their lives for the betterment of the community.

AA Artists, performers and bloggers really need to be damn good at whatever it is they're doing, so much so that people will look beyond your race. If you are so talented and passionate about what it is you do, then people will recognize that and will be moved to buy your music or watch your movie and recommend it to others.
January 21, 2010 at 9:02 AM
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