Forbidden City, U.S.A. Poster

Forbidden City, U.S.A. 1989

★ 6.01 votes56 min📅 1989-11-17

Dive into the vibrant past of San Francisco's Chinatown through *Forbidden City, U.S.A. (1989)*, a captivating documentary directed by Arthur Dong.

Director: Arthur Dong

Cast

Larry Ching
The 'Chinese Sinatra'
Frances Chun
Singer
Charlie Low
Owner, Forbidden City
Mary Mammon
Dancer
Toy Yat Mar
The 'Chinese Sophie Tucker'
Jackie Mei Ling
Dancer
Dottie Sun
Comedic Dancer
Dorothy Toy Fong
The 'Chinese Ginger Rogers' (as Dorothy Toy)
Noel Toy
The 'Chinese Sally Rand'
Tony Wing
Dancer

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Forbidden City, U.S.A. (1989) about?

This documentary chronicles the rise and legacy of Forbidden City, a historic San Francisco nightclub that operated from the 1930s to the 1960s. It highlights the performers and patrons who shaped its vibrant culture, blending music with stories of identity and resilience.

Who directed Forbidden City, U.S.A.?

Arthur Dong directed this insightful documentary, renowned for his work in preserving and exploring Asian-American history through film.

Who stars in Forbidden City, U.S.A.?

The documentary features Larry Ching, Frances Chun, Charlie Low, Mary Mammon, and Toy Yat Mar among its key cast members.

Is Forbidden City, U.S.A. (1989) worth watching?

While it doesn't have an IMDb rating, its genre—documentary—along with its cultural significance and engaging storytelling make it a compelling watch for those interested in history, music, or Asian-American narratives.

How long is Forbidden City, U.S.A.?

The runtime for *Forbidden City, U.S.A.* is 56 minutes.

Forbidden City, U.S.A. (1989): Explore the Legendary Nightclub Through This Fascinating Documentary

Dive into the vibrant past of San Francisco's Chinatown through *Forbidden City, U.S.A. (1989)*, a captivating documentary directed by Arthur Dong. This 56-minute film shines a light on a legendary nightclub that thrived from the 1930s to the 1960s, serving as a cultural hub where Chinese-American performers took center stage. The movie blends music and history, weaving together personal stories and archival footage to paint a vivid portrait of an era when this iconic venue became a symbol of resilience, creativity, and identity. With a stellar ensemble cast including Larry Ching, Frances Chun, and Charlie Low, the film immerses viewers in an atmosphere of nostalgia and discovery.

*Forbidden City, U.S.A. (1989)* isn't just a documentary—it's a time capsule that preserves the spirit of a community's golden years. Through the lens of Arthur Dong, the film explores themes of cultural pride and the transformative power of art, offering a rare glimpse into a world where tradition met innovation. Whether you're a history buff, a music lover, or simply curious about the untold stories of America's immigrant communities, this documentary promises to entertain and enlighten.