E-mail a friendJuly 31, 2007
Sherman Alexie reflects on his journey from poverty on an Indian reservation to accomplished author. Actor Masi Oka discusses Asian stereotypes and his role on the hit TV series, Heroes.
Sherman Alexie
Sherman Alexie
Sherman Alexie is a gifted and accomplished storyteller. Born and raised on Washington State's Spokane Indian Reservation, he's earned high praise for his writing, much of which draws on his experiences as a modern Native American. He overcame significant health challenges as a child and, by age 5, was reading novels such as The Grapes of Wrath. In addition to novels and poetry, Alexie also wrote a screenplay for a movie based on one of his short stories. Flight is the title of his most recent book.
Masi Oka
Masi Oka
Actor discusses his role on Heroes and making special effects for Star Wars(1:52).
Full Interview (10:46).
With an improv background and a computer science degree, Masi Oka made sure he had career options. At age 12, the Tokyo, Japan native was featured on Time's cover for its story on "Asian-American Whiz Kids." After graduation, he worked for George Lucas' visual effects studio, ILM, before trying his hand at acting. Oka has appeared in TV series and films, including Without a Trace, Scrubs, Austin Powers in Goldmember and, in his first leading role, NBC's Heroes. He continues to consult with ILM.