Giannina Ong

4 weeks ago | mochimag.com | Giannina Ong

It’s a truly Asian American franchise, but until now, no Asian actor had played the titular role. Over four decades after its debut, the Karate Kid series returns with “Karate Kid: Legends,” starring Ben Wang (“American Born Chinese”) as Li Fong — the first Asian Karate Kid. The film brings together Jackie Chan, who led the Karate Kid reprise with Jaden Smith in 2010, and Ralph Macchio, the OG Karate Kid, for the first time, alongside Ming-Na Wen as Li’s mother, Dr. Fong.

1 month ago | mochimag.com | Giannina Ong

Once home to an inescapable prison, Alcatraz Island now marks the starting line of one of the most iconic endurance races in the world: the Escape From Alcatraz Triathlon. Athletes plunge into the frigid waters of the San Francisco Bay for a 1.5-mile swim, grind through a challenging 18-mile bike ride with steep hills and sharp turns, and finish with an 8-mile run through the city’s streets and coastline.

1 month ago | mochimag.com | Giannina Ong

Content warning: This article contains references to emotional and physical abuse as well as suicide. If you or someone you know needs assistance, please, contact your physician, go to your local ER, or call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-TALK (8255), or message the Crisis Text Line at 741741. Both programs provide free, confidential support 24/7. Asian Americans and, in particular, Asian American women, are among the least likely to seek mental health support.

1 month ago | mochimag.com | Giannina Ong

Before Moana sang and sailed into the spotlight, there was Lilo — a misfit 6-year-old Hawaiian girl with a camera, a ragtag doll Scrump, and a whole lot of feelings. I remember when “Lilo & Stitch” was released in the early 2000s: For a 7-year-old, it was so exciting to see a fresh Disney film with a new take on aliens and in a new setting like Kauaʻi, Hawaiʻi.

2 months ago | mochimag.com | Giannina Ong

Oakland, California, in the 1980s had a bad rap. Despite the rising crime rates and drug use, there existed a vibrant community rich in cultural heritage and strong social bonds. “Freaky Tales” showcases stories from the era, shifting the spotlight away from the town’s stereotypes and toward its true spirit and mythos focusing on the funky, diverse, and resilient communities and arts scene.