“Nai Nai & Wài Pó” is a heartfelt documentary short that has garnered considerable acclaim, including an Oscar nomination for Best Documentary Short in 2023. Directed by Sean Wang, the film presents an intimate and loving portrayal of Wang’s two grandmothers, who share a deep friendship and live together. The narrative of the film unfolds through the lens of Wang’s personal experiences and observations, capturing the daily rhythms of his grandmothers’ lives against the backdrop of rising anti-Asian hate crimes during the pandemic.
Filmed in the Bay Area in the spring of 2021, “Nai Nai & Wài Pó” offers a glimpse into the simple yet profound moments shared by these two women as they navigate their twilight years with joy, humor, and the occasional dance. The film has not only touched audiences but has also been recognized at various film festivals, securing the Grand Jury Prize and Audience Award at SXSW, and winning accolades at AFI Fest, Seattle International Film Festival, Los Angeles Asian Pacific Film Festival, and more. The documentary has been praised for its ability to find magic in the everyday and for its celebration of life in all its stages.
The film’s reception is a testament to the universal appeal of its story, which resonates with the shared human experiences of love, aging, and the importance of family bonds. “Nai Nai & Wài Pó” is not just a tribute to Wang’s grandmothers but also an invitation for viewers to reflect on their relationships with their elders and the legacies they carry forward.
Additional Details
- Official Page
- Year Released: 2024
- Type of Movie: Documentary
- Movie Platform: Disney+
- IMDB Link
Cast
- Yi Yan Fuei
- Zhang Li Hua
Crew
- Director: Sean Wang
