1935 Los Angeles, community leader Sei Fujii, one of the most pinnacle civil rights leaders in the early 20th century, uncovers the corrupt activities of his community’s underground mafia. He must choose between saving the face of his deteriorating community and confronting the issues head on through his newspaper. The narrative highlights the journey of Sei Fujii away from his political contributions, but into his interpersonal journey to defend and promote his deteriorating community during the Great Depression.

Lil Tokyo Reporter is the story of Sei Fujii (Tashima), a civic rights leader who vowed to protect his people, defending them in legal cases with Attorney Wright (Whitney) and building a much needed hospital for the Japanese American community. During the Great Depression, the community unites at their first annual pageant parade while Fujii promotes their accomplishments through his new radio program and newspaper. Wright brings to Fujii’s attention a group running the local gambling hall who decided to take advantage of his community. Fujii must make a decision to confront the issue through his reporting and newspaper. Will these local baddies win over our historic civil rights leader? Or will our hero survive a road that will lead him into many unexpected twist of events. Tune in this summer to find out.

The film stars Chris Tashima, Eijiro Ozaki, Ikuma Ando, Keiko Agena, and Sewell Whitney. Look for it hitting a film festival near you.

Lil Tokyo Reporter Trailer