TV

Soo Hugh Reflects On Apple TV+’s Pachinko Season 2 And The Road Ahead

Soo Hugh has established herself as a skilled storyteller, transitioning from the suspenseful worlds of The Terror and Under the Dome to the deeply personal, multi-generational drama of Pachinko. Soo Hugh recently spoke with Awards Focus about her approach to casting the multi-generational characters, the challenges of adapting Min Jin Lee’s expansive novel, and the significance of particular scenes that deeply resonated with her during production. 

Unforgettable Gala 2024: A Celebration of AAPI Voices in Hollywood

On Saturday night, leaders in the Asian American film and television industry descended on the Beverly Hilton to celebrate the Unforgettable Gala, produced by Character Media. The evening began with a vibrant red carpet event, where actors, content creators, and influential movers and shakers greeted the press, many of whom were Asian American correspondents including Ben Lei from Awards Focus.

Production Designer Ruth Ammon Talks Cultural Accuracy in ‘Pachinko’ Season 2

In her latest endeavor, production designer Ruth Ammon brings a vivid authenticity to Pachinko Season 2 (both seasons streaming on Apple TV+), transforming historical settings into immersive storytelling. Based on Min Jin Lee's novel, the series explores intertwined Korean and Japanese histories, mostly through the lens of Koreans struggling to be seen as equals since World War II. Ammon, enlisted by showrunner Soo Hugh, embraced the complexity of designing for multiple eras, locations and socioeconomic status, crafting a world that feels both expansive and intimate. Despite the formidable challenges, Ammon describes the experience as one of the most creatively fulfilling of her career.

Amazon Prime’s ‘Cross’: Ben Watkins And The Cast Share Insights At NYCC Ahead Of Premiere

Amazon Prime’s newest detective series, Cross, premieres on November 14th and seems poised to become the next hit adaptation of a popular book series featuring a strong male lead who one way or another, stops the bad guys. Following in the footsteps of Jack Ryan and Reacher, Cross feels like a sure bet to attract viewers - it has already been renewed for a second season ahead of its debut. During a press carpet at New York Comic Con on October 18th, Awards Focus spoke with writer/showrunner Ben Watkins, Aldis Hodge—who takes on the titular role—and co-stars Ryan Eggold, Isaiah Mustafa, and Samantha Walkes.