Reel8 [reel8.com] – an innovative new platform designed to promote the works of demographically-underrepresented filmmakers through use of Web3 technologies – and award-winning film director Evan Jackson Leong (Linsanity, Snakehead) have collaborated to launch a limited series of collectible, digital Jeremy Lin NFTs [Non-Fungible Tokens]. 100% of Lin’s sale proceeds will benefit the Jeremy Lin Foundation, which supports overlooked and underserved AAPI (Asian American Pacific Islander) and cross-racial youth programs through narrative change, community empowerment, and cross-racial solidarity.
The Linsanity NFT drop features access to a previously-unreleased director’s cut of the documentary and behind-the-scenes footage of the Lin family. Holding a Linsanity NFT on the Reel8 platform will provide fans of the basketball phenom with the opportunity to unlock exclusive metaverse content, including a high-stakes three-point shooting game through which token-holders compete for the chance to meet Lin within a live AMA.
Lin’s philanthropic aspirations took root long before his now-historic NBA debut made him into a household name. After becoming one of the only Asian American NBA players, Lin launched the Jeremy Lin Foundation, which partners with grassroots programs that are deeply embedded in the community to serve low income AAPI and cross-racial youth by addressing the full-range of barriers faced (ranging from food insecurity, parent education, mental health and youth empowerment). Through partnership with Reel8, Lin now aims to close the gap in equity which Asian American filmmakers often face:
"I have personally experienced how difficult it can be to have our stories underrepresented," Lin said. "I am excited to give fans an opportunity to support their favorite filmmakers while also supporting crucial youth programs for our community."
Reel8 Co-Founder Dave Liu agrees: "The vast majority of NFTs miss the mark when it comes to providing society meaningful benefits — that’s why we’re excited to launch the Jeremy Lin Linsanity NFT Collection. We believe it will set a new standard by enabling underrepresented filmmakers to reach new and existing fans of their art through direct engagement with members of their audience, while simultaneously supporting social causes like the Jeremy Lin Foundation."
