Children of Invention

For immigrants, the American Dream has always been a symbol of success that meant achieving a new life far removed from past hardships. In his feature film debut, director Tze Chun explores this age-old perception through the eyes of a Chinese American family in suburban Boston.Single mother Elaine Cheng struggles to support her two young children, Raymond and Tina, by juggling various sales jobs. When another one falls through, the family finds itself homeless and must seek refuge in an unfinished apartment building. This latest predicament seems all too familiar to precocious Raymond, who dreams of taking care of his mother and sister with the fortunes garnered from his inventions. Little Tina, however, remains oblivious to their troubles, thanks to her mother’s careful protection. Meanwhile, lured by promises of easy cash, Elaine finds herself drawn into another pyramid scheme, one that will jeopardize the welfare of the two things that matter the most: her children.Chun delicately explores the immigrant experience through parallel tales as Elaine and Raymond seek solutions to their dilemma. As they do so, age becomes irrelevant as they clutch for the elusive brass ring that always seems just out of reach.
CAST
Cindy Cheung, Michael Chen, Crystal Chiu

Tze Chun - Tze Chun's short film Windowbreaker screened at the 2007 Sundance Film Festival as well as 30 other international festivals. He was named one of Filmmaker magazine's "25 New Faces of Independent Film" in 2007. Chun also painted the original artwork used in the poster for Half Nelson as well as the children's book drawings in the film. He is currently working on multiple writing and directing projects in film and television.

Screenings:

Sun. Jan 18 2:30 p.m. - CHILD18PA Prospector Square Theatre, Park City
Tue. Jan 20 6:00 p.m. - CHILD20TE Temple Theatre, Park City
Wed. Jan 21 6:00 p.m. - CHILD21SE Screening Room, Sundance Resort
Sat. Jan 24 11:30 p.m. - CHILD24LL Library Center Theatre, Park City