Today we’d like to introduce you to Ruonan Jiang.

Hi Ruonan, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.

I grew up enchanted by Disney animations, deeply influenced by their love, magic, and sense of wonder. In middle school, a teacher screened Mona Lisa Smile in class, sparking my awareness of female empowerment and individual choice. Later, Dead Poets Society moved me, encouraging me to live in the moment and carve my own path. These films didn’t just entertain me—they shaped who I am, guiding me through the journey from childhood to adulthood.

They not only changed the way I see the world but also cemented my decision to become a filmmaker. Following a traditional path, I majored in film in college and continued my documentary studies in graduate school. Seven years have passed since I first committed to this path, and the landscape of cinema has shifted. The industry faces decline, and the role of film in society is constantly questioned. Yet, one belief remains unchanged: the power of cinema can bridge divides, spark conversations, and bring people together. No matter how the medium evolves, I am committed to telling stories that connect us in an increasingly fractured world.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?

The journey of becoming a filmmaker, especially in today’s shifting industry, is full of challenges—and I know I’m not alone in facing them.

One of the biggest struggles has been navigating an industry that is constantly evolving. With the dominance of streaming platforms and shrinking budgets for independent films, securing opportunities and funding has become increasingly difficult. The way audiences consume films is changing, and so is the role of filmmakers. Adapting to these shifts while staying true to my vision has been an ongoing challenge.

At the same time, I’ve had to rethink what it means to turn passion into a career. Dedicating years to studying film has been invaluable, but the transition from student to working filmmaker is filled with uncertainty. Unlike traditional professions with clear career paths, filmmaking requires forging my own way—seeking opportunities, convincing others to believe in my vision, and constantly proving that my stories deserve to be told. That unpredictability is both thrilling and daunting, making every step forward feel like both a risk and a reward.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?

Although I enjoy directing and filming documentaries, I also produce both narrative and non-fiction films. I find excitement, challenge, and fulfillment in discovering compelling stories and bringing them to life.

As I continue building my experience and portfolio, I’ve noticed a recurring theme in my work: the intricate relationships between humans and nonhuman animals. I’m particularly drawn to exploring the bonds between mothers and daughters, fathers and sons, and individuals and the natural world. For example, in my current documentary GAN, I explore a father’s relationship with his sons, which parallels his bond with a wild animal he rescues.

With a background in both narrative and documentary, I aim to break the boundaries between the two. I love cinematic storytelling, yet I’m deeply aware of the responsibility that documentary filmmaking carries—the need to honor reality while capturing its emotional depth. Rather than relying on dialogue-driven narratives, I prefer to communicate through subtle, observational moments, allowing emotions to emerge naturally rather than be explicitly stated.
For me, film isn’t just about conveying a message—it’s about crafting an experience. I want each audience member to embark on their own emotional journey, finding personal meaning in the images and moments I create.

Alright so before we go can you talk to us a bit about how people can work with you, collaborate with you or support you?

I enjoy collaborating with people from all backgrounds and perspectives, as I believe differences enrich the creative process. What truly brings creators together, however, is passion and dedication—these are the driving forces behind meaningful and impactful work.

Support can come in many forms—introducing me to compelling stories, connecting me with potential collaborators, or simply engaging with my films and sharing them with others. If you’re interested in working together or supporting my projects, feel free to reach out!

Contact Info:

• Website: http://ruonanjiangfilms.cargo.site/

Image Credits

first two photos:
Credit to “Ms. Song,” Dir. Yi Lu

Last two photos:
Credit to “Gan,” Dir. Ruonan Jiang