Project Link
https://www.government.media/lost-neighborhoods

Lost Neighborhoods: Japantown

Lost Neighborhoods: Japantown unveils a poignant American story, born in the heart of Sacramento. Amidst the tragedy of forced internment and a vanishing community, a glimmer of hope remains. One solitary business stands against time.

  • Louis Easton
    Director
    Comic Wars: Kaomic, A Grave Mistake
  • Louis Easton
    Producer
    Comic Wars: Kaomic, A Grave Mistake
  • Joseph Letke
    Producer
  • Uri Ruffin
    Director of Photography
    Abducted, On the Run, A Workplace Comedy
  • Josh Hernandez
    Head of Post Production
  • Kyle Letke
    Research
  • Cory Umezu
    Key Cast
  • Louis Easton
    Key Cast
    "Comic Wars: Kaomic, A Grave Mistake"
  • Project Type:
    Documentary, Short
  • Genres:
    American History, Community Portrait, Urban History Documentary, Cultural Documentary, Cultural Preservation, Legacy, Cultural Heritage Film, Human Interest Story, Memory Film, Place-Based, California HIstory, Japanese American, Public Interest Story, Untold Stories
  • Runtime:
    7 minutes 54 seconds
  • Completion Date:
    July 21, 2024
  • Production Budget:
    8,000 USD
  • Country of Origin:
    United States
  • Country of Filming:
    United States
  • Language:
    English
  • Shooting Format:
    Digital, 4K
  • Aspect Ratio:
    16:9
  • Film Color:
    Color
  • First-time Filmmaker:
    No
  • Student Project:
    No
Director Biography - Louis Easton

Louis Easton is a filmmaker, director, and environmental champion who bridges cultures through the power of storytelling.

With over two decades of experience in film and media production, Louis co-owns Goodsides, a Hollywood-based video production company and certified social enterprise committed to making a positive impact.

A passionate advocate for our planet, his work not only entertains but also inspires change.

Add Director Biography
Director Statement

I've been an advocate for my community and the environment for over two decades, but it was through filmmaking that I found the most powerful tool for inspiring change.

While working on a Goodsides production for the City of Sacramento, I stumbled upon the story of the Nisei Barber Shop—the last surviving business in Japantown.

It started as a simple project highlighting the barbershop, but I quickly realized that a deeper dive was necessary. To truly understand the significance of this resilient establishment, we needed to go to Manzanar and bridge the past with the present.

That experience solidified my belief that we need to tell these stories in a modern way. PBS specials and traditional documentaries are important, but they're not enough. We need to engage audiences where they are, using compelling visuals, shorter durations, and innovative storytelling techniques to bring forgotten or ignored histories to life.

My goal as a filmmaker is to create work that not only entertains but also educates, sparks dialogue, and encourages action. I'm committed to using my platform to amplify marginalized voices, advocate for environmental justice, and inspire a new generation of storytellers who are passionate about making a positive impact.

Whether it's through a short film, a documentary, or a commercial project, I believe that every story has the potential to change the world—and I'm dedicated to using my craft to do just that.