Asian-American Family Drama ‘The Harvest’ Acquired by Freestyle Digital Media, Trailer Unveiled (EXCLUSIVE)

In simple terms, Freestyle Digital Media, a branch focused on digital movie distribution within Byron Allen’s media group, has obtained the rights to show “The Harvest” – an award-winning Asian-American family drama – in the United States.

‘The Harvest’ – A captivating tale that reached the semi-finals in both the CAPE x Black List and Academy Nicholl Fellowship competitions, revolves around Thai, who moves back to Southern California from San Francisco after many years, reconnecting with his strained family, particularly a father grappling with kidney failure. The story delves into the intricate layers of generational pain, self-discovery, and family ties within a traditional, patriarchal household.

Under the guidance of director Caylee So, whose past project “In the Life of Music” represented Cambodia for the Oscars, the movie features Doua Moua (“Gran Torino,” “Mulan”), Perry Yung (“Warrior,” “The Knick”), Dawn Ying Yuen (“Forge”), Chrisna Chhor, and Lucas Velazquez (“100 Dias Para Enamorarnos”) as its leading actors.

The film that won hearts at the Santa Barbara International Film Festival upon its debut has been gathering steam after being showcased at Outfest Fusion, CAAMFest, and the Minneapolis St. Paul International Film Festival. Adding to its collection of accolades are the Audience Award it received at the Seattle Asian-American Film Festival and a Special Jury Award from the Cambodian International Film Festival, as well as a nomination for the Anti Defamation League Stand Up Award.

The movie that was loved at the Santa Barbara International Film Festival initially has been gaining more popularity after being displayed at Outfest Fusion, CAAMFest, and the Minneapolis St. Paul International Film Festival. It now boasts awards like the Audience Award from the Seattle Asian-American Film Festival and a Special Jury Award from the Cambodian International Film Festival, along with a nomination for the Anti Defamation League Stand Up Award.

So stated, “The Harvest” serves as a touching homage to perseverance and the fragile bonds connecting family and self-identity. My aspiration is that viewers will recognize aspects of their personal narratives within ours and be inspired by the power and grace of our collective human experience.

Moua, performing dual roles as writer and actor, commented: “The story revolves around what we receive from our roots – love and scars – and finding harmony with them. There’s an understated tranquility in the hurt that families bear, and I hope ‘The Harvest’ strikes a chord with anyone who has ever pondered their role within their family or yearned to be acknowledged.

The movie was made by John Houselog and Moua, while Yoson An (“Mulan,” “Shadow Force”), Money Vang, Jaeson Ma, Eric Tu, and Tenten Wei from EST Studios served as executive producers. Freestyle Digital Media handled the acquisition negotiations with Wei and Sophie Shi of EST Studios.

EST Studios, launched in 2022 by Jaeson Ma (of Stampede Ventures and 88rising) and Eric Tu (Vice and Anonymous Content), specializes in sharing Asian narratives with global audiences. Their latest ventures include the Academy Award-nominated “Hidden Letters” and “K-Pops!”, directed by eight-time Grammy winner Anderson.Paak, which was screened at Toronto. The studio is also responsible for “Pabrik Gula,” Indonesia’s most successful film of 2025, set to premiere in U.S. theaters on April 18.

The purchase expands Freestyle Digital Media’s collection of independent films, a roster that already contains “Allswell in New York” featuring Emmy winner Liza Colón-Zayas (“The Bear”), “All Happy Families” starring Josh Radnor and Rob Huebel, and “Survive” with Sophie Turner from “Game of Thrones” and Corey Hawkins.

Beginning June 20th, “The Harvest” can be rented or purchased across all North American digital HD platforms (internet, cable, and satellite), in addition to being available on home video formats.

Watch the trailer here:

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2025-04-11 09:46