Kickstarter

I’m thrilled to share that Surf Soup® Buttons is officially FUNDED on Kickstarter!
From the bottom of my heart — thank you to everyone who contributed, shared, or simply sent encouragement. Every bit of support made this happen!

We’re not done yet…
Even though the campaign is funded, you can still back the project to help me go further with screenings, outreach, and sharing this story with the world. Every extra dollar helps amplify the film’s reach — and I’ll keep posting updates here so you can follow along as we head toward our Oscar-qualifying run this September and (fingers crossed 🤞) the shortlist!

Your belief in me and in this film means more than I can say.
Stay tuned — the best part of the journey is just beginning!

💛
Donna Kay Lau
Creator of Surf Soup® ButtonsExplore the latest news, reviews, and features on the most exciting art and entertainment from around the world. From movies and television shows to music, theater, and more, Surf Soup TV is your go-to source for all things entertainment. We provide in-depth analysis and behind-the-scenes looks at your favorite artists, as well as up-and-coming talent that you won't want to miss. Whether you're a casual fan or a die-hard enthusiast, we have something for everyone.

Creator Donna Kay Lau thanks supporters, invites continued contributions, and announces September 8–14 theatrical run.

Los Angeles, CA — [August 12, 2025) — Emmy-honored TV animator and award-winning author Donna Kay Lau has successfully funded her Kickstarter campaign for her hand-drawn animated short film Surf Soup® Buttons, marking a major milestone on the road to its Oscar-qualifying theatrical premiere September 8–14, 2025.

“Thanks to our amazing backers, Surf Soup® Buttons is fully funded — but the journey isn’t over,” said Lau. “We still need your help to share this film with the world, reach more audiences, and promote our Oscar run.”

Set in Lau’s grandfather’s Los Angeles laundry during the Chinese Exclusion Act era, Surf Soup® Buttons is inspired by her Chinese American heritage and her popular Surf Soup® children’s book series. The film combines heartfelt storytelling, whimsical animation, and a celebration of resilience and community.

With the Kickstarter now complete, Lau is preparing for:

• The Surf Soup® Buttons premiere (Sept 8–14, 2025)
• Cultural outreach and festival submissions
• Marketing and Oscar campaign efforts

Supporters can still contribute directly to help amplify the film’s reach, support community screenings, and keep independent animation thriving.

Dear Friends,

I’m writing to share something deeply personal and meaningful to me—a dream I’ve poured my heart into that is finally coming to life.

“It all started with a button…”

That one little spark has now grown into Surf Soup, a whimsical animated short born from my Emmy-honored work in television and a lifetime of storytelling. It’s rooted in creativity, culture, imagination—and a message of unity I believe the world needs more of right now.

I'm currently launch phase of my Kickstarter, and as I take this leap, I'm reaching out to a few people I admire and trust to ask for your encouragement, support, or simply help in spreading the word when the time comes.

Your belief in me would mean the world—whether it's backing the project later, sharing it with your community, or just sending a note of support. This project is a piece of my soul, and I’m honored to invite you into the journey.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart for taking a moment to read this. I truly appreciate you.

Warmly,

Donna Kay Lau

https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/surfsoup/surf-soup-buttons-an-asian-american-animated-short

🎬 Surf Soup is Oscar-Qualifying — and I Need Your Help to Bring It to the Big Screen

My animated short film “Button” is officially set for an Oscar®-qualifying run this September in Hollywood. This deeply personal film, inspired by my grandfather’s journey through the Chinese Exclusion era, is already scheduled to premiere on Sunset in  Hollywood! — but I need your help to make the full vision happen. From the red carpet event and promotional materials to festival outreach and community screenings, every contribution brings this dream to life. I’ve also created some awesome, heartfelt rewards to thank you for supporting this creative milestone. Let’s make Surf Soup history — together.

I’ve poured everything into this project—my heart, time, and legacy. It’s my 4th Kickstarter, and I’m so close, but I need help.

Even $5 makes a difference right now. The campaign ends soon—and Kickstarter is all-or-nothing, so if I don’t hit the goal, it all disappears.

Will you support me today? Here’s the link: [insert link]

And if you’re not on Kickstarter or it’s confusing—let me know. I’ll walk you through it.

Thank you from my whole heart. Let’s finish strong.

💛 Donna Kay Lau

Summary (Asian American + Legacy Focus):
Button is a hand-drawn animated short by Emmy-honored creator Donna Kay Lau. Inspired by her grandfather’s Chinese laundry and the struggles faced during the Chinese Exclusion Act, the film is a heartfelt tribute to the resilience of Asian American families. Through visual storytelling and cultural reflection, Button preserves intergenerational memory while celebrating the power of imagination and identity. The short is now qualifying for Oscar consideration with a theatrical premiere in Hollywood.