Khalief Harjono - Interview
My name is Khalief Harjono, and I am 21 years old born in Jakarta, Indonesia. I am an aspiring filmmaker and film student from Jakarta, Indonesia. I hope to push the boundaries of filmmaking and bring Indonesia's name to the global stages. I love creating spectacle with this art, because I believe that's what everyone wants to see at the end of the day.
Do you prefer Comedy or Drama?
Drama because my life is already a comedy.
Life imitates Art or Art imitates Life?
It’s a cycle, art can only exist because life exists. But when someone finds a reflection to that art, that’s when life starts to imitate it. It’s like if a mirror were to face another mirror, the content would echo each other to eternity.
Which is the best Moment on set?
None in particular, any moment I spent on set with my best friend will always be my best moments.
Did anyone ever tell you weren't good enough?
Yes, it was someone I thought would always believe in me.
How can you stay focused on your goal?
Knowing that I have competition surrounding me at all times gives me a reason to always stay sharp and focused. But the easiest way for me to stay focused is by knowing that there will be plenty of time for me goof-off and spend time with friends and family when the jobs are done.
Have you ever had a breakdown because of your Job?
Never, why would it? Jokes, almost every project I’ve done had moments that really got to me. But that’s how I know that there are stakes, that what I do matters, and how I know I’m pushing myself.
Talent is a blessing or a curse?
It will always be a blessing if you choose to look at it that way. Talent is nothing but raw energy, it manifests into something depending on how you use it and view it.
What would you like to improve about yourself as an actor/director/screenplayer?
As a director, I would like to improve my ability to communicate and also guide actors in their creative process. I believe I can help actors better if I can learn to put myself in their shoes more and almost hold their hand in exploring the nature of the characters.
What's the worst critic you have received?
I remember a close friend of mine who I saw as an older brother told me I’ll never be anything, nothing ever motivated me more than those words.
If you weren't an actor/director/screenplayer what would you like to be?
My dream as a child was always to be a racer - a Formula 1, GT, or Indy driver. I try to use cars and stunts as much as I can in my projects, it’s one of the things that excites me the most as a filmmaker.
If Cinema was a color what would it be?
The question is what would the color of life be without cinema? Would life feel as vibrant if we didn’t go to the theatres? Would stories feel less rich and de-saturated? Only then would we know how much color cinema has brought to our lives.
A day without a movie is...
A day to make one.
If someone offered you to play/direct/write in/a movie that you despise but that for sure will make you rich and famous...would you accept the job?
Yes, so that I can fund the movie I want to make. The film I wish to make is like a child I don’t yet have, I don’t know when I’ll have it, or what it will look like, I only know that I’ll love it, and I will go to the end of the Earth to make it.
What's your greatest ambition?
Blablabla the Oscars, but apart from that my goal is to elevate the film industry in my country. Setting new standards, showing new boundaries, and showing the potential of Indonesians in this art.
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What's your biggest fear?
My years of efforts amount to nothing, and feeding into my dreams prevents me from feeding my own family.
Does music help you to play/direct, and write?
Music is one of the main elements that guides me through a project. It helps me find the emotion I’m looking for in the film, or if that emotion even exists. I noticed that it also helps actors find the emotions of the characters.
You have the chance to make a Silent movie, what's your message to the audience?
Love is universal, and acting on it will always speak louder than any word.
Share your speech if you should win an Oscar.....
Prefer not to spoil it 😉
Gabriella White - Interview
Gabriella White AKA: The Culture Cave is the British-Dutch Director of Breathing Underwater (The Award Winning Feature Film Series, released in 2024). Independent filmmaker, musician and life-long journalist with a passion for nature, adventure, world cultures, music, the ocean, environmentalism, human rights and our connection to the planet and each other, with an element of spirituality. Of herself she says: "I am a director who films, writes, narrates, edits and produces all of my own work".
When did you realise you wanted to be a Filmmaker\Actor\Writer?
I started writing from a very young age. I was publishing poetry nationally by age 8 in the UK and by age 14 I was working as an assistant editor and a journalist in north east England. I am a born writer. My background as a linguist made me interested in culture. I have been making travel documentaries and culture shows as The Culture Cave since 2011, but the feature filmmaking came much later as a spontaneous production process after becoming a scuba diver as I wanted to do my adventure footage justice. As a narrator and voice actor in a previous broadcasting role in Tokyo, all of the skills kind of naturally came together and I started making short feature films, which turned into a film series the more I dove. I never truly planned to become a feature filmmaker. It just kind of happened.
Do you remember your first time at the Movies?
Whilst I don’t remember the very first time, I do remember Robins Cinema in my hometown as our go-to cinema in Durham City, north east England. It served as a backdrop throughout my childhood with its beautiful architectural history. The cinema dates back to 1934 and the same company also owned the Prince Charles Cinema in London’s West End. It was a magical cinema.
If you should change country where would you like to work?
Italy is high on the list but I would also love to explore Greece. New York is also one of my favourite cities in the world. I truly am a nomad and am currently wondering where to base myself next following a long stint in Asia. I am open to offers. Environmentally deciding factors are the warm friendly people, great food and a country with great nature! Great ocean is a giant plus! Work-wise, countries offering me creative roles who welcome my PR and broadcasting skills will be essential for my next move and I am open to those opportunities.
Two films that have marked your life for better or for worse…
Interstellar (2014) for the mystery, beauty and insatiable appetite for mankind to grasp time and space and how the timeline unites and divides us in this life experience and beyond it.
And then Castaway (2000). I found the scene where Chuck Noland (played by Tom Hanks) returns from his innocent disappearance such a human dilemma. Life has moved on as if he no longer exists, but here he stands again, surviving such a tragic accident. Love remains, but everything has shifted and time is no friend. I find that dilemma truly heart-wrenching when Kelly Frears (played by Helen Hunt) realises he is alive against all odds and she didnt need to grieve him at all (the scene when Kelly and Chuck are reunited), but she is living a different life - it serves as a core reminder of how strange life can be. I found it one of the most thought-provoking dilemmas in love, life and death, that one.
What do you think about Acting/ filmmaking schools?
I never attended one, but I think they serve as a great gateway to discipline and opportunity.
Have you ever hated your ambition?
Only in the sense that my creative imagination runs wild and I need more than one lifetime to create all of the movie scripts in my head. A lot of fiction film ideas, but ironically, I’ve ended up making documentaries. I sometimes love but also hate how my own life script has had more than its fair share of thriller movie moments and I just want to document it all, but people probably wouldn’t believe it.
Francois Truffaut used to think that "Film Lovers are sick people”… was he right?
Only if you never leave the house or lose touch with reality. I’m not really a fan of horror or violence in movies - I think obsession with dark energies like that could be contributing more to human crime.
Close your eyes…if I say “Cinema” what do you see?
America’s wide open highways and a sense of freedom. Or the familiar faces of my favourite actors flashing by. Drone flight views. Speed. Birds-eye-views. Escapism.
Who’s the Director\Actor\Writer that taught you the most?
My Dad, English singer songwriter Ron White, who composed over two thousand songs and lyrics in his lifetime. He was a prolific writer with a beautiful imagination and extraordinary at what he did. He taught me to stay devoted to my craft. We are from a family of artists. I was born with the same insatiable desire to write and pursue music for as long as I can remember.
About your job, tell us your biggest dream and your worst nightmare…
I’m living the biggest dream now with Breathing Underwater accumulating awards around the world. It is the biggest dream because it has turned into something bigger than I imagined. It is a surreal journey to be on and when the film started getting selected unexpectedly and effortlessly, it propelled into something global overnight and continues to expand.
My worst nightmare? Losing project data after a long edit!
How important is it to have a good Cinematographic Culture?
Essential. I used to live in France and I love how they invest a lot into the arts world and truly revere it.
What would you like to improve as a Filmmaker\Actor\Writer?
As a new feature film director on the international movie scene, technical editing and getting more efficient at it I think is key…as well as keeping up to date with the latest technology developments.
A big producer gives you the chance to direct\to play (in) the remake of one of your favorite black and white Movies (if you have one)… what film do you choose?
It would have to be Wings of Desire (1987), which went on to inspire City of Angels (1997). Awe-inspiring concept. I love how the films explore the bridge between life, death and the au-delà through Angels. I would love to explore that theme further through film direction and acting (and yes, I do believe in Angels!)
Film Industry it’s a tough place and sometimes is normal to feel lost and discouraged… who’s the person that keeps you motivated?
Probably Kate Winslet never to give up on the most unlikely of dreams….Nicole Kidman for her charm and zest for life as a female film Director and Tom Hanks for taking Hollywood in his stride.
Alfred Hitchcock said: "To make a good film you need 3 things: The script, the script and the script". Do you agree with him?
No. I do a lot of my work unscripted, all be it different genres. Whilst words matter, I believe there is a divine flow that can come through in creative work.
What’s your most ambitious project for the future?
Touring the world with my acoustic music in some capacity. Publishing my autobiography (memoires on my weird and wonderful life thus far). But essentially, I want to continue reaching audiences around the world through film and music to take things to the next level. I want to continue bringing
audiences closer together cross-culturally in a powerful way through documentary and film, so that when audiences stop and pause to enjoy my work, they can be captivated by a greater feeling that connects us as human beings through nature, wonder, the human spirit or simply pure emotion. Music and narration are powerful. It is my ambition to stay true to that soul mission. I feel I am being called to work in film to move audiences in some way. Perhaps this is all part of a greater shift. Essentially I’d love to work full-time in the film industry, so I am open to work opportunities in the field, including narration, presenting, directing, production or writing, similar to what I am doing now but in a more full-time capacity on a larger scale.
Do you think that sadness or at least melancholy let’s us be more creative?
Absolutely, especially in music, composition and lyrics. It’s like the piece of coal that gets alchemsed into a diamond under pressure. Beautiful things are often born out of adversity.
What do you wish to yourself as a Filmmaker\Actor \Writer?
To leave a legacy beyond this lifetime…. by moving people through my artistic contributions to cinema, music and writing. To move peoples’ emotions through emotive art is to essentially touch their soul.
Scott MacLeay - Interview
Scott MacLeay holds a Master of Science degree in economics from the London School of Economics and left his doctoral studies to pursue a career in photography in Vancouver specializing in fashion photography and editorial portraiture. In 1979, he moved to Paris to dedicate himself full time to his exhibition work and has exhibited widely in galleries and national museums in North and South America, Europe and Japan. His images are present in numerous private and museum collections. In the 1980s, he began experimenting with video art and in 1985 was named Director of the prestigious Center for Media Art and Photography (CMAP) of the avant-garde American Center in Paris where he devoted himself to producing audio-visual projects and developing cutting-edge pedagogical programs for young artists.
The biggest challenge of being an actor\director\screenwriter is …?
That’s a tough question and my response is probably very different from someone from the traditional cinema universe given my profile as an experimental new media artist working in the fields of digital video, photography and music.
As a director my biggest challenge is not preaching about my values that obviously represent a stable foundation present in all my work – that is, not yielding to the temptation to propagandize my views. I adhere to the idea that art of all types should aim to provoke inspiring thoughts, evolving emotions and new psychological perspectives on the part of the spectator, obliging them to question their positions. It is not about us and them. It is about trying to create a universe of civilized confrontation of ideas and perspectives. I am not an actor, but have worked as a performance artist in several of my videos. The challenge in this role is not to hold back and hide the revelation of my true self.
Choose an actor; Choose an actress ... and now choose a story you would like to direct or play with both of them:
If I were to choose among the well-known actors and actresses, two sets of two “couples” come immediately to mind: Christopher Walken / Olivia Colman and Sean Penn / Isabel Huppert. All seem to have an almost organic, multifaceted marginality in their character that appeals to me. I do not know them personally, so perhaps I am completely wrong, but that is how I perceive them.
I would enjoy using each “couple” in a performance art piece dealing with our inability to be completely truthful with those with whom we meet and find immediately intriguing. I would document sessions with each of these “couples” in which I would use chance techniques to provide them each person with sensitive questions to pose to one another and give each the freedom to react in any manner they felt appropriate.
Who’s the first Artist that let you understand you wanted to be an actor\director\screenwriter?
Without a doubt there are several video artists whose work I discovered simultaneously at the American center in Paris in the early 80s. Among them, three names stand out: William Wegman, Joan Logue and Gary Hill. Although very different, the incredible work of these artists stimulated an interest in exploring the world of experimental moving pictures that began for me in 1983.
What really excites you artistically or emotionally?
In a single word: “exploration” – particularly of the human condition and my position as a participant in this ongoing enigmatic circus. I believe in the importance of being lost, of having to use all of our intellectual and emotional resources to find our way in unknown environments.
Marlon Brando said “Never confuse the size of your paycheck with the size of your talent”. Do you agree?
Unequivocally yes!
Have you ever been discouraged by someone about your life\career choices?
Honestly no, I have never been discouraged by someone about my life or career choices. I was fortunate to have parents that always supported my decisions even when they did not feel they were the right ones from their perspectives. They had confidence in my judgements about myself. I think that this is fairly rare. I am fortunate to have a wife and daughter who provide me with love and support. To be honest, I never really cared about what people thought about my choices in life or about my work. Perhaps it sounds arrogant, but I always thought that I alone was capable of appraising my actions, failures and successes in any truly relevant manner.
Do you think is harder for a woman being a filmmaker?
Yes. In fact, I think that with few exceptions, it is unfortunately more difficult for women to break into most professions at every level of activity. When you think objectively about this, aside from the obvious intolerance such a situation reveals, it is simply ludicrous to prevent the world from benefiting from
the intelligence, talents and creativity of such a large segment of the population. The same is true of course for minorities of all types who suffer intolerance and discrimination.
Do you think that fame and money could easily change your own vision as a filmmaker\actor\screenwriter?
No, at least not consciously. However, who really knows how such events ultimately affect our work without us even realizing it. I think this is the reason it is so important to take risks and explore new directions throughout our journey as artists.
Who’s the Movie star that made you dream for the first time?
If we are speaking of the great stars of traditional cinema, I would say Peter Sellers. I am thinking here of films like The Pink Panther, Dr. Strangelove and The Party. His unique form of humour struck a chord in me and I discovered that worlds capable of transporting us to intriguing new places could be created in short works of an hour and a half. If we are speaking about the stars of the video art world, then without a doubt I would have to say Nam June Paik was responsible for my awakening to the power of this new form of expression to reinvent our dreams in altogether new non-narrative ways that injected doubt, ambiguity and uncertainty into the equation. I have Don Foresta and Anne Marie Stein of the Center for Media Art at the American Center in Paris to thank for introducing me to video art in the period from 1980-1983.
Make a wish about your career...
My simple wish would be to continue to explore, take chances and produce work I feel is relevant until my dying breath.
Talking about cinema\showbusiness, how hard is to remain completely honest to yourself as an artist?
It is remarkably easy for me as I am not affiliated in any manner with the traditional cinema or showbusiness world. These worlds have no influence on my motivations, perspectives or actions.
The film you have loved the most?
To be honest, I can’t really name one film. Depending on my state of mind, my answer would be completely different and would in all cases be totally divorced from whatever work I was doing at the time. The traditional cinema was always, for the most part, simply entertainment to me, a way of taking a break.
However, there are films which left a trace for one reason or another: Casablanca (because it was my father’s favourite film), Citizen Kane (the use of light and camera angles), Death in Venice (the cinematography and complete synergy of music and image), Love and Anarchy (the wonderful mix of Italian humour, romance and political drama), Annie Hall (the humour and relevance of the portraits traced), Stranger Than Paradise (relevance of the mundane), Blue Velvet (innovative revisiting of the “film noire” genre), Betty Blue (perspectives on marginality) … I could go on … but there is no single film that stands out from the rest. I honestly don’t know how there could be given the immense variety of work.
And now, don’t be shy …. the one that annoyed you the most?
Once again, hard to name one, there are so many. I just don’t see the value of repeating stereotyped narrative formats over and over and over again. If I had to pick a film that is perhaps symbolic of my lack of enthusiasm for this type of cinema, I might choose “Titanic”, because I don’t like the concept of “blockbuster” movies in general, but to be perfectly honest 99% of Hollywood’s romance and romantic comedy films would be on my list of annoying films. The exception to my dislike of these genres would be Italian films of directors like Fellini, Scola, Pasolini and Wertmüller.
Your biggest artistic goal is …
I would say that it is attempting to be true to my values while continuing my journey of exploration and discovery in the new media universe. It has always been my goal. I have had the good fortune to have my still images exhibited worldwide and my videos featured in major festivals around the world. I obviously greatly appreciate this privilege and am deeply indebted to the dedication of those persons who supported and promoted my work over the years, but notoriety was never my goal. I always looked upon “success” as a lucky by-product of my dedication – lucky because I was fortunate to have encountered like-minded people who enriched my life in so many ways and opened doors that I might have never known existed.
What profession other than your own would you like to attempt?
Master carpenter / woodworker
How important is to be rewarded as an Artist?
It depends on your definition of “rewarded”. If by this you mean financial reward, then obviously it is always gratifying when people or institutions purchase works or sponsor projects. I have been fortunate in this way. However, it is fundamentally important that young artists understand that no amount of dedication and/or talent can guarantee financial stability from your artwork alone. You need to be able to fall back on some other income-generating source if you intend to make art your priority. If by “rewarded”, you refer to recognition by the public and/or your peers, then I would say that it is always gratifying, at least temporarily, and can certainly help us over the periods of doubt that we all encounter along our journey. However, once again, it is not fundamentally essential to seeing our work progress in ways we find relevant. Only solid commitment to our journey can ensure progress.
But beware. Sometimes the rewards of money and recognition are a double-edged sword, constituting unconscious enemies capable of promoting a certain stagnation with respect to our processes and subject matter. The status quo is the enemy of progress.
Do you have regrets?
None. They only serve to slow you down. I have always believed that my decisions and actions in the past were based on my best analysis of the situation at the time and how that situation affected my goals. I always chose the path that I thought best served these goals. We evolve over time and perhaps who we are today would not have made the same choices, but that is irrelevant because at the time, we were not who we are today. The only justification for regret to exist is a situation in which we purposely chose to not be faithful to our values and goals for some reason. I cannot remember any situation where this was my case.
What’s the message you wanna express through your art?
Truth is elusive and evolving. Dig deeper, we can always understand our existence and the world around us more thoroughly. Always question everyone’s thoughts and perspectives, including your own.
Antonia Kim - Interview
Founder of AITONIA | AI Filmmaker & Educator | Chatbot Developer. With over 15 years of experience as an executive producer, Antonia Kim has led video productions for esteemed organizations like KBS, the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, and English Egg. Now, she is on a thrilling new adventure, pioneering the intersection of artificial intelligence and creative storytelling. Her passion for AI has ignited a groundbreaking journey: she proudly created Korea’s first 30-minute AI-generated film, Choon — a landmark achievement that showcases the immense potential of AI-driven filmmaking. In her pursuit of innovation, Kim founded AITONIA, a specialized AI powerhouse, dedicated to pushing the boundaries of AI-driven storytelling. Her mission is to bridge the gap between AI and cinematic storytelling, revolutionizing how stories are created, told, and experienced on a global scale.
Do you prefer Comedy or Drama?
I enjoy drama with a touch of comedy. If I had to choose just one, I'd go with drama. But I do prefer when there are moments of humor sprinkled in: it gives the audience a chance to breathe and creates a more dynamic experience.
Life imitates Art or Art imitates Life?
Honestly, I believe it's both. When I create, I naturally project parts of myself into my art, so in that sense, art imitates life. But then, without even realizing it, I've seen my life follow the narratives of the stories I've created. It's a fascinating cycle.
What is the best moment on set?
The most rewarding moments are when the outcome surpasses my expectations: when the performances or camera work go beyond what I had envisioned. It feels like receiving a surprise gift.
Has anyone ever told you that you weren’t good enough?
Thankfully, no. My family and friends have always supported me. They’ve seen how much effort I put into my work and continuously encouraged me. That unwavering belief is what helped me get here.
How do you stay focused on your goal?
Once I set a goal, I create a mental blueprint. I outline the narrative structure—beginning, middle, and end—and then tackle each step one by one. Defining the story’s core structure from the start keeps me on track.
Have you ever had a breakdown because of your job?
Yes. I'm very passionate about my work, and sometimes I push myself to handle everything on my own rather than delegating tasks. The hardest moments were when I gave my all, but that sincerity wasn’t fully recognized.
Is talent a blessing or a curse?
Talent is undoubtedly a blessing. Of course, there’s a timing element involved: when and if the world recognizes that talent. I believe that meeting the right moment while you’re still actively pursuing your craft is a matter of luck.
What would you like to improve about yourself as a director?
I'm currently creating AI films, and I was the first in Korea to produce a 34-minute AI-generated movie. My next challenge is to create a full-length feature film. Along the way, I want to improve my ability to master my tools more freely, reducing trial and error for greater efficiency.
What’s the worst criticism you’ve ever received?
I've been fortunate to avoid harsh criticism so far. But there was a time when I was asked to simplify a deliberately abstract piece, which was disheartening because it felt like the essence of the work was being overlooked.
If you weren’t a director, what would you be?
Probably a professor. I enjoy exploring subjects in depth, and I’d love to share my knowledge with others.
If cinema were a color, what would it be?
A rainbow. Cinema is limitless and vibrant, just like a spectrum of colors.
A day without a movie is…
Like a flower without fragrance.
If you were offered a project that you despise but it guaranteed wealth and fame, would you accept it?
That's a tough question. But if taking on a project I despise could push my boundaries, I’d say yes. Sometimes, doing something you absolutely hate can expand your perspective. Beyond wealth and fame, it becomes an opportunity for personal growth; a chance to evolve as a human being.
What’s your greatest ambition?
I’ve established myself as a pioneer in Korea’s AI film industry. My next ambition is to become a global ambassador for AI cinema, connecting with people around the world and sharing my vision internationally.
What’s your biggest fear?
Burnout. I’m trying to manage my time wisely to avoid it.
Does music help you when directing or writing?
Music is essential to my process. I often start by composing a theme song and play it on repeat while planning scenes. For Choon, the entire structure was built around the main theme. Music is my storytelling foundation.
If you had the chance to make a silent movie, what would be its message?
I’d create a story about a girl walking down a path, slowly realizing that the road she’s on is actually a turning point toward a new destination. The message? What you firmly believe to be the right path may actually be a redirection to something greater.
What would your Oscar acceptance speech sound like?
"If you do what you love and put in the work, the world will eventually notice. The butterfly effect is real—I'm living proof of that. And remember: don’t just talk about it, act on it. Luck favors those who move."
Vivian Tsang - Interview
Originally from Hong Kong, I moved to Manchester three years ago. I hold a Bachelor’s degree in animation, with minors in photography, film, and television, studied in Hong Kong and the United States. Currently pursuing an MA in Filmmaking with a focus on documentaries, I’ve completed two shorts: Andrea’s Experience with Yoga Practice and The New Immigrants - Hong Kongers. I’m passionate about exploring diverse film styles to enhance my directing and technical skills while sharing my work with audiences.
What's the absolutely necessary ingredient to be a good actor/director/screenplayer?
Hardworking, willing to connect and communicate with others, listen to others, and accept your weaknesses.
First and last cinematographic crush?
The first is Blade Runner and the last is 2046.
How old you were when you decided you wanted to be an actor/director/screenplayer?
In my early 20s, around 24 years old.
For you a Film is...
about enjoying, entertaining, and imagining new creative ideas and sharing them with the crew to develop a great piece of work and ultimately present it to the audiences.
What do you feel when you're acting/directing/writing?
I feel a mix of excitement and a bit of nervousness when I’m directing.
You can go to the Movies with an actor/director/screenplayer that you love. What kind of movie do you choose and with who you're gonna watch it?
I will go to the Movies with a famous Japanese actor, Takuya Kimura, will watch the action and thriller detective film like Sherlock Holmes.
Audrey Hepburn used to say “Nothing is Impossible”, what do you think about it?
I believe that with positive thinking and strong belief, anything can be achieved on the path to success.
Can you live just of your passion?
I don’t think so. You need money and support from others to live out your passion.
What's more important talent or luck?
I believe both are important, but luck is more important than talent. Moreover, talent can be developed through effort and practice. Many celebrities fall into the latter category.
You must go to a desert island but you can bring with you just one movie...
Blade Runner
Have you ever accepted a part/ a movie to direct/ a script to write even if you didn't like the project?
No, I haven’t had that experience before. I usually choose things that interest me.
What's the best compliment you have received about your Job?
A producer, Al Boyd, complimented me, saying, ‘Brilliant work, Vivian. You should be proud of yourself.’ I volunteered to be one of the extras to help others while the actors practiced their lines during the rehearsal.
Are you satisfied about your career?
I would say that I’m not satisfied. I’m still searching for my dream job. I’m actively joining different communities and networking to meet more people and expand my connections.
Do you have a good luck charm?
I believe that I always do.
Which is the worst moment on set ?
When everyone is getting tired, and you still need to complete filming, it becomes incredibly stressful. With multiple takes and repeated shots, the pressure builds, especially when you’re running out of time and need to finish everything overnight.
How do you feel when a job you've been part of it's ending?
I felt accomplished, honoured and relieved, as it felt like I had completed a mission and was able to witness the entire process unfold.
Have you ever lied to get a part/job?
No, I haven’t done anything like that before.
If you should win an Oscar your first thought would go to… the teachers who taught me filmmaking during my time at university film school.
My Master’s film school teacher, Debbie Ballin, taught me so much, especially about storytelling in documentaries and the craftsmanship of creating films. She provided me with significant guidance and inspiration for making my independent film.
Mark Thomas, who introduced me to Debbie as my tutor, also gave me a wealth of helpful advice. He was as a fantastic source of inspiration, offering thoughtful critique and feedback on my work.
Lastly, my undergraduate film teacher, Evangelo Angelo Costadimas, was a great source of support. He invited guest speakers to give us a deeper understanding of the film industry in Hong Kong. He also showed excellent leadership, guiding our class as we worked to wrap up our film projects.
I-Jien Jane Kou - Interview
I-Jien Jane Kou has a B.A. in Computer Science from U.C. Berkeley, a B.F.A. in Fine Art from The School of the Art Institute of Chicago. In addition, she has three Computer Information System and Application certificates from UCLA Extension. She worked as a software engineer in Silicon Valley tech companies for ten years, before she went to SAIC.
Do you prefer Comedy or Drama?
I like both, including romantic comedy. The only genre I avoid is horror. I saw “The Ring”. It was so good. I was afraid of going to restroom for a month after I saw that movie.
Life imitates Art or Art imitates Life?
It is chicken and egg. Do you have chicken first; or do you have an egg first?
Which is the best Moment on set?
I did not submit RabbitWell.com’s episode 2 City of Boredom to film festivals. However, it is the episode that most people told me that they like the most. I did not submit episode 2, because I did not want my silly politic jokes to be on screen in festivals in election year. Most of RabbitWell.com has social satire elements.
Did anyone ever tell you weren't good enough?
All the time.
How can you stay focused on your goal?
To stay focused, one has to really want it. You need the desire and the fire
within you.
Have you ever had a breakdown because of your Job?
I was fired by navy, which was my first real job after I graduated from UC
Berkeley. After I graduated, I could not find a coding job. So, I worked for navy
reserve as a system administrator. I knew how to write code, but I did not know
how to operate a workstation. My English was terrible and not able to read
menus quick enough. Those navy reserve were really nice and treated me like a
family. But, I disappointed everyone, because I was not able to learn. Yes, I was
so afraid that I would accidentally purge everyone’s data.
Talent is a blessing or a curse?
It depends on how you look at it. I think that talent is a blessing. However, many
teenagers dim their own light to fit in.
What would you like to improve about yourself as an actor/director/screenplayer?
I am currently taking dancing, writing, and acting classes at a community college and on-line. I learn a lot from Catrelia Magee, Janet Jefferie, Jacob Krueger, and Eli Their, who are generous to share their knowledge and looking after our shoulders.
What's the worst critic you have received?
My dance professor Catrelia Magee made a brutal comment on my final project
Soul. Our final project is a three minutes dance film of “investigation”. It was the
first time I took a ballet class; and I turned in my project with purely animation
and purposely removed myself as a dancer in the film. Prof Magee commented,
“it is an ingenue skillfully craftsmanship”. Through out the class, Prof Magee
made me face my self with courage. It was a healing process. By taking
Professor Magee’s class, I learned to gain self-worthy. Do you know that being confident and feeling self-worthy is a learning process and a discipline to master?
If you weren't an actor/director/screenplayer what would you like to be?
I like to be a fine artist. You should check out my paintings at Fine Art America:
https://fineartamerica.com/art/paintings/i-jien+jane+kou
If Cinema was a color what would it be?
Full spectrum RGB colors.
A day without a movie is...
A day without a movie is No Make-Believe
If someone offered you to play/direct/write in/a movie that you despice
but that for sure will make you rich and famous...would you accept the job?
Probably not.
What's your greatest ambition?
Winning an Oscar. Just kidding. I like to fall in love and get married one day,
weather I fall in love with a boy or a girl.
What's your biggest fear?
I would die without being in a romantic relationship for once.
Does music helps you to play/direct, write?
Yes, definitely. I use to study at cafes, where they all play nice musics.
Sometimes, I was inspired by the musics played in cafes for my animation’s
background music. When I hear a good music, I would call on Siri to tell me what is the good number which is playing. “Hey, Siri, what song is it.”
You have the chance to make a Silent movie, what's your message to the audience?
“Be honest to your heart.”
Share your speech if you should win an Oscar.....
“I made it!! Being an artist is such a hardship. But, I cannot deny my heart. One
of the life lessons that I learned is that you have to follow your heart and be true
to your heart. Otherwise, your soul will burn eternally. It takes a lot of courage