The film Ain’t Samsāra a Bitch takes the universal questions about the meaning of life and what happens after death, and adds another layer: If given the choice, would you come back to life?

A deep-seated belief in reincarnation has resonated around the world throughout human existence. But having a personal choice in the matter — as opposed to the fate of the universe or the command of a higher power — speaks directly to filmmaker Lorrie Chang’s beliefs.

“I feel like life is a choice,” she says during a phone call. “So why would the afterlife be any different?”

Filmmaker and poet Lorrie Chang, raised in San Francisco’s Chinatown, says having her debut film shown at the Great Star Theater is a full-circle moment. (Courtesy of Lorrie Chang)

As hefty a concept it may be for a short

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