MOCA x NYAFF Film Club: Full Moon in New York

MOCA x NYAFF Film Club is a quarterly program celebrating the brilliance and boldness of Asian and Asian American cinema. This series highlights films of historic and cultural significance under the theme Margin, spotlighting daring films that challenge the norm, rewrite narratives, and push boundaries. Each session is more than just a movie night—it’s an opportunity to connect, discover, and engage. This year’s screenings are scheduled for May 7, June 11, September 24, and December 10. Following the screening, join us for a moderated conversation to explore the film’s themes, creative impact, and cultural context. Attendees are encouraged to share their thoughts and continue the dialogue during a casual networking reception afterward. Don’t miss this chance to immerse yourself in the world of bold cinema and meaningful connections. Let’s watch, chat, and celebrate together! DECEMBER SCREENING Full Moon in New York (2019) Directed by: Stanley KwanRuntime: 89 minutes Directed by Stanley Kwan 關錦鵬, Full Moon in New York (1989) is a landmark drama that follows three Chinese-speaking women from mainland China, Hong Kong, and Taiwan as they forge an unlikely friendship while building new lives in New York City. Starring Sylvia Chang, Maggie Cheung, and Siqin Gaowa, the film explores the complexities of migration, cultural identity, homesickness, and belonging, revealing how shared experiences can bridge political, linguistic, and personal differences within the Chinese diaspora. Widely regarded as one of Kwan's defining works, Full Moon in New York received critical acclaim across the Chinese-speaking world. At the 26th Golden Horse Awards, it won Best Feature Film and Best Actress for Maggie Cheung, while becoming the ceremony's most nominated film with 11 nominations and its biggest winner with eight awards. More than three decades after its release, the film remains a poignant portrait of the immigrant experience and a rare cinematic exploration of the diverse identities that shape the global Chinese diaspora. Starring:Sylvia Chang 張艾嘉, Maggie Cheung 張曼玉, and Siqin Gaowa 斯琴高娃 Stay after the screening for a conversation between MOCA’s Curator and NYAFF’s Programmer, starting around 8:10 PM. Explore the film’s deeper meanings and behind-the-scenes context before engaging in further discussions with fellow attendees over beverages. ABOUT New York Asian Film Festival The New York Asian Film Festival (NYAFF) is North America’s premier event showcasing the very best in new Asian cinema. Held annually in July at Film at Lincoln Center and various venues across New York City, NYAFF is celebrated for its bold, diverse, and dynamic programming. The festival highlights a wide spectrum of films—from emerging voices to masterful auteurs—spanning genres such as cutting-edge blockbusters, independent treasures, and groundbreaking works. As a vital platform for Asian filmmakers, NYAFF fosters cross-cultural dialogue and champions the innovation, creativity, and richness of Asian storytelling on a global stage.