Month: August 2023

Anaheim University’s Carrie Hamilton Entertainment Institute proudly hosted a one-of-a-kind event, Tokyo Pop Revisited, a celebration of the groundbreaking 1988 film Tokyo Pop, directed by Fran Rubel Kuzui, along with a VIP reception for the launch of the Anaheim University Carrie Hamilton Entertainment Institute’s first degree program. This special event took place at two iconic venues: the Japan Foreign Ministry’s Japan House Los Angeles and the historic TCL Chinese Theatre in Hollywood. Event Details: Date: Tuesday, August 8, 2023 Locations: Japan House Los Angeles: 6801 Hollywood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90028 TCL Chinese Theatre: 6925 Hollywood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90028 Tokyo Pop Revisited included: Exclusive Screening at TCL Chinese Theatre As a tribute to the film Tokyo Pop and its star, the late Carrie Hamilton, Anaheim University hosted a special screening of the new restoration. Attendees experienced this unique fusion of Japanese and American independent cinema symbolized in the film at the legendary TCL Chinese Theatre. This exclusive presentation allowed audiences to revisit the film that captured the spirit of 1980s cross-cultural creativity and inspired countless artists and filmmakers. Tokyo Pop was restored in 4K by IndieCollect, in association with the Academy Film Archive with funding from Dolly Parton, Carol Burnett, the HFPA Trust, and donors to IndieCollect’s Jane Fonda Fund for Women Directors by Jane Fonda, Dolly Parton, and Carol Burnett.  After-Screening Reception at Japan House Los Angeles Following the movie screening, a reception was held at Japan House Los Angeles, where attendees enjoyed a memorable evening of celebration. Carol Burnett, the guest of honor, announced the launch of Anaheim University’s online Bachelor of Arts in Communication degree program with a concentration in Film & Entertainment, offered through the Carrie Hamilton Entertainment Institute, named in her late daughter’s honor. Director Fran Rubel Kuzui participated in an in-depth Q & A about the cultural impact of Tokyo Pop and its role in bridging East and West through music and film. Attendees gained behind-the-scenes insights into the making of the movie and its enduring legacy in global pop culture. The reception featured a special musical performance by Carrie’s Tokyo Pop co-star Tadakoro Yutaka and American Idol alum Ava August. Legendary rock photographer Bob Gruen, who took photos during the filming of Tokyo Pop, spoke about his relationship with Carrie Hamilton, sharing heartfelt anecdotes and his experience documenting the iconic moments of the film. About the Carrie Hamilton Entertainment Institute The Carrie Hamilton Entertainment Institute, part of Anaheim University, was established to honor the legacy of actress, writer, and director Carrie Hamilton. The institute promotes cross-cultural understanding through entertainment, education, and the arts, fostering creativity and dialogue among global audiences. About Tokyo Pop Originally released in 1988, Tokyo Pop tells the story of a young American singer, portrayed by Carrie Hamilton, who travels to Tokyo in search of stardom and discovers a vibrant music scene, romance, and the challenges of cross-cultural exchange. The film’s unique narrative and lively soundtrack have cemented its status as a cult classic. About Carol Burnett Carol Burnett, mother of Tokyo Pop star, Carrie Hamilton, is an award-winning American actress, comedian, singer, and writer. The Carol Burnett Show was one of the longest-running variety shows in television history and at the time was one of the only variety shows with a female star. Her exceptional talent and quick wit have made her a beloved figure in the entertainment industry for over six decades. Throughout her illustrious career, Carol Burnett has amassed a multitude of honors and accolades, including six Primetime Emmy Awards, a Tony Award, a Grammy Award, and seven Golden Globe Awards. In 2005, she was bestowed with the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian honor in the United States, in recognition of her remarkable achievements. In 2013, she was honored with the Mark Twain Prize for American Humor, an esteemed accolade celebrating individuals who have made significant contributions to American comedy. Furthermore, in 2015, the Screen Actors Guild acknowledged her outstanding career by presenting her with the Life Achievement Award and in 2019, the Golden Globes named an award after her for career achievement in television, the Carol Burnett Award, with Carol receiving the first award. On April 26, 2023, she was honored with an NBC special Carol Burnett: 90 Years of Laughter + Love celebrating her 90th birthday. Hailing from San Antonio, Texas, Burnett’s journey to stardom began in the 1950s when she moved to New York City to pursue a career in acting. She gained recognition for her appearances on various television shows, including “The Garry Moore Show,” where her comedic skills and ability to portray a wide range of characters quickly captivated audiences. In 1967, Burnett launched her own highly successful variety series, “The Carol Burnett Show,” which became one of the most beloved and longest-running shows in television history. The show, which ran for 11 years, featured a mix of sketch comedy, musical numbers, and memorable characters. Burnett’s brilliant comedic timing, improvisational skills, and infectious laughter endeared her to millions of viewers worldwide. Carol Burnett has also excelled on the stage and in film. She received critical acclaim for her performances in Broadway productions such as “Once Upon a Mattress” and “Moon Over Buffalo,” as well as her film roles in “The Four Seasons” and “Annie.” Her extraordinary talent, versatility, and genuine charm have solidified her as one of the greatest comedic legends of all time, and her legacy will undoubtedly continue to shine brightly for years to come. About Fran Rubel Kuzui Fran Rubel Kuzui has made a home for herself in every conceivable corner of the film world as a director, writer, producer, and distributor. After receiving an MA in film from New York University she was an Associate Producer at PBS and then worked as a Script Supervisor out of New York for over ten years. Fran first entered the spotlight by writing and directing the film Tokyo Pop, one of the hits of the 1988 Cannes Film Festival. She went on to direct Buffy the