Host Marina Fang talks to Joel Kim Booster, writer and co-star of FIRE ISLAND, about the film’s Austenian origins, the boundaries between real-life and fiction throughout the writing process, and navigating issues of racial and sexual representation and the intersections of privilege.

This episode is presented by the WGAE's Asian-American and LGBTQ+ Salons, in partnership with The Lower East Side Film Festival.

Joel Kim Booster is a Los Angeles-based actor, comedian, producer, and writer. He co-produced and wrote for the acclaimed comedy series BIG MOUTH and THE OTHER TWO and has appeared on series such as SHRILL, SEARCH PARTY, and SUNNYSIDE as an actor. In 2022, his stand-up special JOEL KIM BOOSTER: PSYCHOSEXUAL released on Netflix.

His most recent project is the Hulu romantic comedy film FIRE ISLAND, an unapologetic, modern day rom-com showcasing a diverse, multicultural examination of queerness and romance. Inspired by Jane Austen's classic novel Pride and Prejudice, the film centers around two best friends, Noah and Howie, who set out to have a legendary week-long summer vacation on the iconic and historic gay cultural hub of Fire Island with the help of cheap rosé and a group of eclectic friends.

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