NYC World Premier of "Face of a Nation: What Happened to the World's Fair?"

Daughter of immigrants, an idealistic architect struggles to keep her dream alive as she journeys to discover why America abandoned World’s Fairs. 

FACE OF A NATION captures the erosion of the American image as the country loses sight of its vision and values.  Probing deeply into national identity, architect Mina Chow investigates the controversy surrounding US participation at World’s Fairs for the last 25 years.  She uncovers ignorance, apathy and isolationism culminating in the State Department’s deception to the American public. The film asks important questions about the country’s role in the world and perceptions of America’s image. With our diminished presence at World’s Fairs, have we lost sight of what it means to be American? 

Research for the film was launched in 2010 with four (4) USC grants:  USC Fund for Innovative Teaching, USC US-China Institute Faculty grant, USC Architectural Guild Dean's Fund, USC Ambassador's Fund.  Over $302,000 in grants and donations were raised to complete the film with interdisciplinary collaboration between faculty at the USC School of Architecture, USC School of Cinematic Arts, and USC Annenberg School for Communications and Journalism.

The Architecture and Design Film Festival celebrates the unique creative spirit that drives architecture and design.  With a curated selection of films, events and panel discussions, ADFF creates an opportunity to entertain, engage and educate all types of people who are excited about architecture and design.  With well-attended screenings, legendary panelists, vibrant discussion and events in New York, Los Angeles and Chicago, it has grown into the nation's largest film festival devoted ot the subject.  The ADFF also programs for international film festivals as well as cultural institutions and private venues.