By Maria Esteves – August 19, 2011

The 34th Asian American International Film Festival 2011 (AAIFF11) Opening Night New York premiere of AMIGO, directed by John Sayles, commenced Wednesday, August 10, 7:00 pm, at the Chelsea Clearview Cinemas. Presented by Asian CineVision, AAIFF11 Opening Night arrivals included international filmmakers, dignitaries, producers, sponsors, celebrity guests, industry professionals, and patrons. A special Q&A session with director Sayles, producer Maggie Renzi, and actor Joel Torre moderated by Associate Director of Programming, Scott Foundas, Film Society of Lincoln Center, preceded the festivals Opening Night Reception at Art Gate Gallery. Questions posed by associate director of programming Scott Foundas, Film Society of Lincoln Center included “What attracted you in playing this character and what is John like as a director on the set?  Tell us about the benefits and challenges of shooting on location in the Philippines as opposed to other projects?”