Ikigai

Based on a true story, the CSUN Senior Thesis Film “Ikigai” follows a young Japanese American girl in the 1970s who is transferred to a primarily white school during the bussing program initiative and is faced with overcoming racial discrimination. Nominated for Best Production Design Indie Short Fest 2024; outstanding achievement award. Won best first time female Director (Maren Elardo), and best young actress (Julia Saito); outstanding achievement award Indie Short Fest 2024