Shirley Chen on ‘Slanted,’ Assimilation, and the Cost of Wanting to Fit In

Shirley Chen discusses her role in “Slanted,” a bold SXSW-winning film that blends body horror and satire to explore identity, assimilation, and belonging. Drawing from personal experience, Chen reflects on the complexities of self-perception and why telling uncomfortable Asian American stories is essential to pushing representation forward.

Film Review: ‘The Accountant 2’

"The Accountant 2" made its world premiere at SXSW 2025, playing to a packed crowd at Austin’s historic Paramount Theatre. Its mix of bone-crunching action and unexpected humor clearly resonated, taking home the Audience Award in the Headliner category. See our full review here.

Shirley Chen and Amy Wang Deliver SXSW Winner with Satirical, Genre-Bending Thriller Film ‘Slanted’

Debuting at SXSW, Amy Wang’s “Slanted” delivers a sharp and fearless take on identity, assimilation, and self-worth, wrapped in dark humor and body horror. The film, which won Best Narrative Feature, cements Wang as a filmmaker to watch, tackling heavy themes with a biting satirical edge. Amy Wang spoke to Awards Focus about the film’s origins, balancing satire with social commentary, and the overwhelming response at SXSW.