Manzanar

A poignant coming-of-age drama about Ralph Lazo, a 17-year-old Mexican-American who defies societal norms to stand in solidarity with his Japanese-American friends by voluntarily joining them in an internment camp during World War II.

Manzanar is a tribute to allyship, the power of moral conviction, and the enduring connections that transcend heritage and culture.

Synopsis

Set against the backdrop of World War II, Manzanar tells the extraordinary true story of Ralph Lazo, a compassionate and courageous teenager from Los Angeles. Outraged by the forced removal and internment of 120,000 Japanese Americans, Ralph—a 17-year-old of Mexican and Irish descent—makes an unthinkable decision: to leave his own life behind and voluntarily join his Japanese-American friends in the Manzanar internment camp.

Over two years, Ralph becomes an integral part of the Manzanar community, attending high school, standing for election as class president, and witnessing the resilience and humanity of the people he chose to stand beside. After his time in the camp, Ralph’s journey continues as he serves in the U.S. Army during the Pacific theater of WWII, returning home to become a lifelong advocate for civil rights and reparations for Japanese Americans.

Director’s Statement

Manzanar is more than a historical drama—it’s a timely exploration of the courage it takes to stand up for what’s right, even when society tells you to look the other way. As someone deeply committed to sharing stories of allyship and intersectionality, I was drawn to Ralph Lazo’s unwavering moral compass and the profound relationships he forged across cultural lines. This film aims to inspire audiences to reflect on the role they can play in fighting injustice and fostering unity in their own communities.

More Info

  • At its heart, Manzanar is about solidarity and resistance. It highlights the profound impact of allyship in the face of systemic injustice and celebrates the humanity that binds us, regardless of race or heritage.

  • Manzanar is envisioned for a wide release through a combination of festival circuits (Sundance, TIFF, etc.) and digital streaming platforms like Netflix or Hulu, ensuring both critical exposure and audience accessibility. A complementary social media campaign will engage younger audiences, drawing parallels between historical events and contemporary issues of civil rights. Partnerships with educational institutions and cultural organizations will amplify the film’s impact, fostering dialogue about allyship and history.

  • Betsie Garcia maintains creative control and ownership of the project. Collaborations with historians and Japanese-American cultural organizations ensure historical accuracy and cultural sensitivity, while preserving the artistic integrity of the film.

  • Manzanar seeks to inspire audiences to recognize the strength of standing in solidarity with marginalized communities. By spotlighting Ralph’s remarkable choice, the film demonstrates how one person’s actions can ripple outward, leaving a legacy of courage and compassion.

  • In the aftermath of the 2024 election, where divisions in race and culture remain prevalent, Manzanar serves as a powerful reminder of the transformative potential of cross-cultural allyship. Ralph Lazo’s story is a testament to the idea that our shared humanity can overcome societal divides. It highlights the importance of standing together, especially during times of fear and discrimination, and encourages viewers to build bridges across communities. As we navigate modern challenges, Manzanar offers a beacon of hope and a blueprint for solidarity in action.