Center for Asian American Media

This dramatic documentary explores America’s most recent refugees, struggling against the mounting tension of a post-Viet Nam era filled with guilt and anger. A group of Laotian refugees have built a Buddhist temple on a small farmstead on the outskirts of a resolutely blue-collar town in Illinois. Their efforts to preserve their culture and religious heritage have been greeted by several terrorist attacks on their temple.

By investigating opinions of townspeople and officials concerning the Laotians, the film becomes a barometer of America’s attitude towards refugees and immigrants. Featuring rich and colorful Buddhist ceremonies and Laotians working in a factory, BLUE COLLAR AND BUDDHA is a moving portrait of the experience of today’s refugees and the drama that results when East meets West.

Awards
Best Documentary, Atlanta Film & Video Festival
Gold Medal, International Film & Video Festival, New York
Award of Excellence, Society for Visual Anthropology
Silver Plaque, Chicago International Film & Video Festival

Related Films
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Kelly Loves Tony
Red White Blue November
Voices of Challenge: Hmong Women in Transition

College/Institution

K-12/Public Library/Community Group