VIFF: Golden Delicious

Golden Delicious is a fresh and engaging coming-of-age story about an Asian-Canadian teenager who is torn between his girlfriend’s dreams of their future and his father’s ambition, all the while struggling with finding himself and following his own desires. In his first feature, director Jason Karman vividly brings to life the joys and complications of a young man who suddenly discovers feelings for the boy next door. Locally shot and set in East Vancouver, this film is a rare and important entry in a genre that has been traditionally represented by white, heterosexual, and mainstream narratives. Wonderfully acted by an ensemble cast, and led by Cardi Wong in a charming, complex, and at times heartbreaking performance. Entertaining, sensitive, and ultimately feel-good, Golden Deliciousis a sumptuous and culturally specific story set in the age of social media. It is meant to be told and seen. A winner of the 2022 Frameline Completion Fund.