Lion on the Mat

Published by Ojai Film Festival on


Sunday, November 7, 7 PM, AC Theater

2020, USA, Director: Asali Echols; 17 min.
Mai Nguyen, a Vietnamese-American martial artist, juggles the demands of being a working single mother and training for an upcoming Jiu Jitsu match. With her return to the mat, Nguyen reflects on her early years in Vietnam and immigration to America. Gradually, her training provides the emotional catharsis Nguyen needs to heal from a traumatic childhood and an abusive relationship.

Categories: 2021 FilmsDocumentary Shorts

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