Today we’d like to introduce you to Chris Zilong Wang.
Hi Chris Zilong, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I’m Chris Zilong Wang, an independent film producer currently based in New York. My journey into filmmaking stems from a deep passion for storytelling and an enduring commitment to shedding light on underrepresented narratives, particularly those rooted in Asian and Asian American culture and experiences.
Over the years, I’ve been fortunate to see my projects resonate with audiences worldwide. My past films have been officially selected at prestigious festivals, including the Chicago International Film Festival, the Rhode Island International Film Festival, and the Oberhausen International Short Film Festival. I am committed to producing films that challenge conventional perspectives while celebrating the nuances and richness of Asian identity. Through thoughtful storytelling and collaboration with talented filmmakers, I aim to create works that not only entertain but also inspire greater understanding and empathy.
In my role as a producer, I strive to blend creative vision with practical execution, ensuring that each project achieves its highest potential. Whether I’m working on a thought-provoking short film or a feature that pushes artistic boundaries, my goal remains the same: to craft high-quality cinema that resonates with authenticity and purpose.
It’s an exciting time for Asian and Asian American storytelling, and I’m thrilled to contribute to this vibrant cultural movement.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road, but the challenges have shaped who I am as a producer and deepened my passion for filmmaking. Like many independent filmmakers, I’ve faced my fair share of hurdles, from funding constraints to navigating a highly competitive industry.
One of the most significant struggles has been finding the right resources to bring ambitious projects to life. Many of the stories I’m drawn to—ones that explore Asian and Asian American identities—require nuanced storytelling and careful attention to cultural authenticity. Balancing these creative aspirations with budgetary limitations can be a daunting task. However, these constraints have also pushed me to be resourceful and innovative in ways I never thought possible.
Another challenge has been carving out space for underrepresented narratives in a predominantly Western-centric industry. While there has been progress in recent years, there’s still a long way to go in terms of achieving equal representation and breaking down stereotypes. Advocating for these stories often involves overcoming skepticism or convincing others of their universal appeal.
On a personal level, there have been moments of doubt—times when projects stalled or when the uncertainty of the industry felt overwhelming. However, those moments taught me resilience and reminded me of why I started this journey in the first place. Seeing audiences connect with the stories I help bring to the screen makes every struggle worthwhile.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
As an independent producer, my work revolves around bringing compelling stories to life, from conception to completion. I specialize in creating films that center on Asian and Asian American narratives, focusing on cultural authenticity and emotional depth.
I’m perhaps best known for my dedication to quality and my ability to collaborate effectively with filmmakers to realize their vision. My past films including “Beyond Farewell”, “Until He’s Born”, and “Dregs” have been featured at prestigious festivals such as the Cinequest Film Festival, Athens International Film Festival and Hollyshorts. These accomplishments reflect my commitment to producing work that resonates with both audiences and critics.
What I’m most proud of is the impact these films have had. Seeing audiences connect with the stories I’ve helped create—whether through a heartfelt discussion after a screening or a message about how a film resonated personally—makes all the challenges worthwhile. I’m also proud of the relationships I’ve built with talented directors, writers, and crew members who share my passion for meaningful storytelling.
What sets me apart is my cultural perspective and unwavering focus on crafting narratives that are both deeply personal and universally relatable. Having navigated both Eastern and Western cultural spaces, I bring a unique lens to storytelling, ensuring that my projects are grounded in authenticity while appealing to a global audience. At the heart of it, I see myself as more than just a producer; I’m a bridge-builder—connecting cultures, ideas, and audiences through the transformative power of cinema.
How do you define success?
For me, success isn’t just about accolades or box office numbers—though those can certainly be gratifying. Success is about creating work that leaves a lasting impact, sparks meaningful conversations, and resonates with audiences on a personal level. If a film I’ve produced can make someone feel seen, understood, or inspired, I consider that a success.
It’s also about staying true to my values and vision as a filmmaker. Producing films that authentically represent Asian and Asian American experiences is central to my mission, and success means navigating the challenges of the industry without compromising that purpose.
On a broader level, success is about contributing to the growth of a more inclusive and representative film industry. If my work can help pave the way for more diverse stories and voices to be heard, then I feel like I’ve done my part.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chris.wzl/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chriszilongwang/
