Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Vyolet Jeun. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Alright, Vyolet thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Has your work ever been misunderstood or mischaracterized?

There have been times when I have overheard crew members misjudging or mischaracterising me, but it has never bothered me. My goal has never been to be liked by everyone, but rather to ensure that I treat everyone with respect and cause no harm.

My leadership philosophy has always been centred on bringing out the best in others because I believe that a good leader is loved and trusted by the team, but a great leader is someone who makes everyone believe in the project itself. Not just in film, but in every field, leaders must decide whether they wish to be a good leader or a great leader. I have chosen to be a great leader.

Sometimes, being a great leader means being misunderstood or even disliked by the team. But choosing this path comes with one responsibility—to ensure that the crew feels a sense of pride in the project, regardless of their opinions of me.
At the end of the day, what truly mattered was that they believed in the project and dedicated themselves to making it a success. I deeply appreciate the hard work and commitment of every single person involved, and I consider myself fortunate to have worked with them—regardless of any misunderstandings or moments of disrespect along the way. Above all, I am grateful that Unveiling Shadow has left them with a sense of pride in being part of this project. My duty was fulfilled the moment they felt that pride.

Vyolet, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

Hey, I’m Vyolet Jeun a filmmaker and writer born in South Korea, raised across multiple diverse countries, which is why I have a mix of strong accents. I’m currently an undergraduate student at Columbia University, majoring in philosophy, while actively working as a filmmaker outside academia.

My philosophy as a filmmaker is simple: a good film evokes emotions, but a great film provokes questions. The foundation of questioning begins with philosophy, which is why I chose to study it which will allow me to craft films that challenge audiences to think deeply.

My first short film, ‘matters’, has been selected for prestigious film festivals and is still making its way through the festival circuit. The central question of that film was: “What kind of mirror are you to this society?” The story follows an Asian boy who dies in a racist attack during COVID-19, an incident fuelled by false media narratives and the actions of adults, which trickled down to children and led to tragic consequences.

My second short film, ‘Unveiling Shadow’, poses another question—of course, haha. “Do you truly believe that every choice you’ve made is entirely your own?” This second short film has just started the festival circuit, I hope to seek different types of answers throughout the festival rounds while meeting the audiences.

I am constantly seeking ways to create films that no longer separate philosophy and film, but rather merge them seamlessly. My goal is for each of my films to help audiences understand themselves better and help to make their own rules and philosophy of life.

Can you tell us about a time you’ve had to pivot?

My second film, ‘Unveiling Shadow’, a proof-of-concept project, faced significant challenges in securing an investor. However, whenever things don’t go as planned, I remind myself—as I always have and always will—that rejection is a redirection to a better acceptance, and sometimes taking the longer route is the fastest way forward.

Due to difficulties in finding the right investor, I had to adjust the shooting schedule, which was a tough but necessary decision. At the end of the day, filmmaking is a business—but a business that allows me to explore my world and vision.

I always keep in mind the trust and investment I have received, ensuring that I don’t just create a film that makes me proud, but one that also delivers value to those who believed in it. My priority is to ensure that their investment is not lost, striving to create a win-win situation where both artistic and financial success are achieved. I would like to thank my investor Cardia Summers, for believing in me and this project.

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

I believe that film is the tool to visualise embodiment of my wisdom that is infused into my senses. Sharing the wisdom through my senses are one of the most favourite part of the work. Another thing that makes me most passionate about creating art is the ability to connect with others through shared emotions, feelings, and empathy—despite having completely different lives and circumstances. When my books or films give voice to unspoken thoughts or evoke the emotions that audiences and readers have been searching for, that, to me, is the most beautiful part of my work.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: Instagram: vyoletx_
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vyolet-jeun-a70501340
• Youtube: https://youtu.be/t7ndlRkdItg?si=N9Dkrsg3Ju7GNc_R
• Other: Email: [email protected]

Image Credits

Nurselle Malazarte