Documentary Overview
The A List: 15 Stories From Asian and Pacific Diasporas is an HBO Original documentary that presents a tapestry of personal vignettes from across Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander communities in America. The film captures lived experiences from high-profile celebrities like Sandra Oh to unsung heroes like Madelyn Yu, a retired nurse in New Jersey. Through intimate first-person accounts, the documentary invites viewers to question umbrella terms like Asian American and AAPI, instead drawing focus to the individuals and communities themselves.
Featured Participants and Stories
The film features 15 participants whose moving stories illustrate both tragedy and triumph, joy and pain. Notable voices include pioneering journalist Connie Chung; army-helicopter-pilot-turned-senator Tammy Duckworth; trans advocate and athlete Schuyler Bailar; activist and astronaut Amanda Nguyen; surfer and scientist Cliff Kapono; DJ Rekha, whose underground parties transformed the New York City music scene; and Haroon Mokhtarzada, a child refugee turned successful entrepreneur and philanthropist. Additional participants include comedian and actor Kumail Nanjiani, comedian Bowen Yang, chef Yia Vang, photographer Manny Crisostomo, astrophysicist Nergis Mavalvala, and activist Kathy Masaoka.
Themes and Purpose
The documentary reflects diverse histories and cultures across Asia and the Pacific Islands, attempting to represent a community whose roots span two-thirds of the world. The film's 15 participants' stories illustrate commonalities from which community can emerge. With original interviews and rich archival materials, the film reframes the proverbial A List by placing Asian and Pacific Islander communities squarely at the center of American life.
Production Details
The documentary is directed by Eugene Yi, known for The Rose: Come Back to Me and Free Chol Soo Lee. It is executive produced by Timothy Greenfield-Sanders, who has previously created The Black List, The Trans List, The Out List, and The Latino List. Interviews were conducted by Jada Yuan from The Washington Post, The New York Times, and New York Magazine. The film is produced by Perfect Day Film. 
Answer