Ying Chu
Ying, born in Taiwan, relocated to Australia in 2010. Growing up in Taichung city. She completed the UNI Preparation course at Edith Cowan University in 2019. In 2020, her passion for screen production led her to specialize in producing and directing, resulting in four independent film projects at the university. 'Sister - We are Family,' a short documentary supported by the Chung Wah Association Perth, exploring the diverse stories of women united by Chinese traditional dance. It received acclaim and won an award at the Hong Kong Indie Film Festival. The documentary, 'Chinese Pioneers - Western Australia,' delves into the history of early Chinese immigrants in WA, earning recognition in China, Singapore, and Sydney. The work received an Honorable Mention in the WA Screen Culture Award and is set to be featured on the Planet Classroom Network in October 2023. Her ultimate aspiration is to create pieces that harmoniously blend Western and Eastern cultures, highlighting diversity on a global scale and leaving a lasting impact.
Could you briefly describe your project for our audience?
Ah-Ma is a story about two generations. Na-Na, born in Taiwan, shared her early years with her grandmother, Ah-Ma, a renowned Taiwanese Opera actress. When she left for Australia at the age of four, Ah-Ma's legacy continued to shape her. Inspired by her grandmother's artistry, Na-Na aspires to become an opera actress herself. The film's emotional core is woven into the haunting melodies of Gezaixi, evoking a profound sense of longing and connection.
What were your main aspirations or goals when creating this project?
The story is based on my experiences. I hope that the emotions conveyed can deeply resonate with the audience and portray the culture of Taiwan.
Could you briefly describe your project for our audience?
Ah-Ma is a story about two generations. Na-Na, born in Taiwan, shared her early years with her grandmother, Ah-Ma, a renowned Taiwanese Opera actress. When she left for Australia at the age of four, Ah-Ma's legacy continued to shape her. Inspired by her grandmother's artistry, Na-Na aspires to become an opera actress herself. The film's emotional core is woven into the haunting melodies of Gezaixi, evoking a profound sense of longing and connection.
What were your main aspirations or goals when creating this project?
The story is based on my experiences. I hope that the emotions conveyed can deeply resonate with the audience and portray the culture of Taiwan.
Share some memorable moments from the shooting process or any pleasant surprises.
This project is my independent work at my university. We faced many challenges from pre production to post-production. I am proud that it is a 100% student production. We overcame various difficulties to create 'Ah-Ma.' We learned, faced, and solved problems together. This is a memorable experience for me.
Who is the primary target audience for your film, and what do you hope they will take away from it?
I aspire for my audience to span the globe, experiencing the emotions and relationships conveyed through my work.
What makes your project an appealing choice for potential distributors?
Ah-Ma is a story that transcends generations, aiming to present not only the traditional Asian culture but also the cultural differences within it. Gezaixi serves as a local performance, introducing the Western audience to the language, dance, and songs of Taiwan's local culture. This narrative spans generations to depict the immigrant life in Western countries for Asian audiences. I believe the connection between these two elements is effective in portraying a genuine and beautiful story for our audiences.
This project is my independent work at my university. We faced many challenges from pre production to post-production. I am proud that it is a 100% student production. We overcame various difficulties to create 'Ah-Ma.' We learned, faced, and solved problems together. This is a memorable experience for me.
Who is the primary target audience for your film, and what do you hope they will take away from it?
I aspire for my audience to span the globe, experiencing the emotions and relationships conveyed through my work.
What makes your project an appealing choice for potential distributors?
Ah-Ma is a story that transcends generations, aiming to present not only the traditional Asian culture but also the cultural differences within it. Gezaixi serves as a local performance, introducing the Western audience to the language, dance, and songs of Taiwan's local culture. This narrative spans generations to depict the immigrant life in Western countries for Asian audiences. I believe the connection between these two elements is effective in portraying a genuine and beautiful story for our audiences.
How would you define your unique filmmaking style, and what distinct qualities characterize your film?
The portrayal of human relationships is the thematic essence through which I aim to narrate stories on screen. These relationships may encompass those between lovers, family members, and friends. I am inclined to concentrate on the process, which includes the emotional journey, struggles, and conflicts. I aspire to skillfully capture these pure connections through the lens of the camera, aiming to deeply resonate with the audience and touch their hearts.
What inspired you to pursue a career in filmmaking?
I believe my early experiences in performance have inspired me to create and tell stories. Working as a dancer with performers from diverse cultural backgrounds has allowed me to immerse myself in various cultures, and I genuinely enjoy the differences and challenges that come with it. As a filmmaker, I aim to share my life experiences and overcome challenges through the art of film. I view film as a unique form of art, each piece being one-of-a-kind in the world.
I believe my early experiences in performance have inspired me to create and tell stories. Working as a dancer with performers from diverse cultural backgrounds has allowed me to immerse myself in various cultures, and I genuinely enjoy the differences and challenges that come with it. As a filmmaker, I aim to share my life experiences and overcome challenges through the art of film. I view film as a unique form of art, each piece being one-of-a-kind in the world.
Do you have a filmmaker or source of inspiration who has influenced your work?
Traditional culture like as song, dance and drama.
Share a couple of your favorite films and what resonates with you about them.
Sense and Sensibility, Ang Lee- the describe of characters. Titanic, James Cameron- the scenes description and setting. Raise The Red Lantern, Yimou Zhang- Gender difference and women empowerment.
Where do you typically find inspiration for your film projects?
In my life and travels, I am fascinated by observing people—what they do and say. This interest deepened when I immigrated to Australia, a multicultural society. In this diverse cultural landscape, I began comparing my own cultural background with that of Australia, leading to a process of exploration, discovery of creative story.
Traditional culture like as song, dance and drama.
Share a couple of your favorite films and what resonates with you about them.
Sense and Sensibility, Ang Lee- the describe of characters. Titanic, James Cameron- the scenes description and setting. Raise The Red Lantern, Yimou Zhang- Gender difference and women empowerment.
Where do you typically find inspiration for your film projects?
In my life and travels, I am fascinated by observing people—what they do and say. This interest deepened when I immigrated to Australia, a multicultural society. In this diverse cultural landscape, I began comparing my own cultural background with that of Australia, leading to a process of exploration, discovery of creative story.