We were lucky to catch up with Chen Chen recently and have shared our conversation below.

Chen, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Can you open up about a risk you’ve taken – what it was like taking that risk, why you took the risk and how it turned out?

One of the biggest risks and boldest decisions I’ve ever made was when I decided to resign from my job in Beijing and booked a flight to Los Angeles within half an hour. This spontaneous move marked a pivotal moment in my life.
Just 20 days before this decision, I had gone through a difficult breakup. One day I was lying on a boat, drifting on a serene lake, contemplating my future and reflecting on my past. After graduating from the School of Visual Arts in New York City, I had returned to China and spent three years working as a commercial director in Beijing. During this time, I collaborated with prestigious luxury brands such as LONGINES, DIOR, LANCÔME, and CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN. Additionally, I had the opportunity to work with renowned Chinese celebrities like Coco Lee, Tang Wei, and Ni Ni.
These experiences in the commercial video and fashion film industry were incredibly valuable. I gained deep insights into the industry and honed my craft. However, as I lay on that drifting boat, I realized that I did not want to be like the boat, aimlessly floating without direction. I yearned for more than just a regular, repetitive existence. I was at a crossroads, trying to figure out how to live and work as an independent woman. I refused to settle for a mundane life because I still had a burning passion for life and films. I aspired to become a great film director, like David Fincher or Steven Spielberg.
Three months prior, I had a brief but impactful reunion with my old friend Olivia, who lived in Los Angeles. Her stories about life in LA and the professionalism of Hollywood film crews ignited my curiosity. I also had a deep appreciation for the sunsets in Los Angeles. With a sense of adventure and a desire for change, I thought to myself, “Why not give it a try?”
In a moment of clarity and determination, I booked my ticket to Los Angeles within half an hour. I sublet my apartment in Beijing, met with some old friends, and embarked on a new journey. Here I am now, a brand-new person with a fresh start in Los Angeles, chasing my dreams and pursuing a career in filmmaking.
This risk, though daunting, was a necessary step towards my growth and self-discovery. It has been a transformative experience, allowing me to embrace new opportunities and challenges in the vibrant world of Hollywood.

Chen, 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?

My journey into the film industry began with my undergraduate studies in fiction filmmaking. During this period, I gained valuable experience through internships in TV show production, which provided me with a solid foundation in the industry. After taking a gap year to explore various opportunities, I decided to pursue a master’s degree in Social Documentary Films at the School of Visual Arts in New York City. This experience broadened my perspective and honed my skills in storytelling and visual narratives.
Following my graduation, I ventured into the commercial sector and spent three years working as a commercial director in Beijing. Here, I had the opportunity to collaborate with prestigious luxury brands and renowned celebrities, deepening my understanding of the industry. Despite exploring different facets of filmmaking, my passion for the film industry remained unwavering. This drive led me to Hollywood, where I am now embarking on a new journey to chase my dreams in the heart of the film world.
Two years of studying documentary filmmaking made me appreciate the connections between people even more. It also heightened my awareness that the significance of visual media extends beyond commercial purposes; the act of documenting itself is profoundly important. One of my proudest moments was spending a month filming a documentary in the remote regions of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau. My team, consisting of just three people, ventured into the uninhabited areas of Hox xil to capture the story of a volunteer dedicated to environmental protection. The pristine environment and pure human spirit there deeply touched my soul.
One particularly moving story we encountered was about the construction of the Qinghai-Tibet Railway. Initially planned to be built on the ground, the project had a budget of several billion yuan approved and was set to begin. However, a group of environmental scientists, armed with decades of research data, convinced the Ministry of Railways that the railway would disrupt the migration patterns of endangered species like the Tibetan antelope. Thanks to their efforts, the plan was revised, and the railway was elevated to allow safe passage for wildlife. This story brought me to tears, and our documentary, which highlighted these efforts, went on to win awards at various international film festivals. It is my hope that it raises awareness about environmental conservation.

Throughout my career, I have engaged in various roles, but my favorite has always been the highly creative work of a director. I thrive on collaborating with different departments and witnessing the evolution of a project from a mere concept to a fully realized piece. Whether it’s commercial videos, fashion films, or social documentaries, my focus is on delivering narratives that are both compelling and innovative. The collaborative nature of directing allows me to integrate the unique strengths of each team member, resulting in a cohesive and impactful final product.
My unique combination of strong project management skills and creativity enables me to provide clients with organized and imaginative solutions. I excel in efficiently managing projects while infusing them with innovative ideas, ensuring that the final product is both polished and original. What sets me apart is my adaptability and willingness to embrace new challenges, constantly pushing myself beyond my comfort zone to deliver exceptional results.
I am most proud of my ability to execute projects effectively and my courage to step out of my comfort zone. I continuously adjust my approach to embrace new experiences, never allowing the desire for stability and security to trap me in a repetitive, uninspired routine. By maintaining my creativity and passion, I ensure that I am always ready to take on fresh challenges and produce extraordinary work. My experience filming in the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau and the impact of our documentary on environmental awareness stand as testaments to my commitment to meaningful storytelling and making a difference through film.

Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?

Before the age of fourteen, I was the only child in my family, raised with the same freedom and independence often afforded to boys. My parents rarely interfered with my decisions or restricted my freedom. However, as I grew older and my interactions with society deepened, I became acutely aware of the differing treatment between men and women. As a woman, I realized that I was just as capable and talented as any man, and I refused to accept societal norms that suggested otherwise. This realization ignited a drive within me to prove myself and gradually evolved into a mission to create visual media from a female perspective.

I am committed to producing documentaries, advertisements, and films that serve as platforms for my voice as a director. These mediums allow me to express the unique experiences and perspectives of women, challenging societal norms and highlighting our strengths and capabilities. My goal is to inspire and empower others through my work, showcasing that gender does not define one’s potential or worth.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

For me, the most rewarding aspect of being an artist is the connection I create with different people. Humans are one of the most wonderful creations in this world, capable of forming unique emotional bonds with everything around them. We can love people, nature, animals, and ourselves. As a filmmaker, if my work can make someone happy, moved, or even bring them to tears, creating an emotional connection, it is a truly beautiful thing. It makes me feel that my work has power.

I once filmed a documentary about a non-governmental organization in Changsha, Hunan Province, called Butterfly Home. They take in children with severe illnesses who have been diagnosed with a life expectancy of less than six months. I spent six months there, filming the documentary and forming deep emotional bonds with the children, the caregivers, the founder, and the management staff. After the documentary aired, it attracted significant attention and donations. I believe this is incredibly meaningful work.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://Chechen.dir

Image Credits

Photo credit by: Peng Zhi, Deng Chun, Hammer Geng.