We recently connected with Eric Chen and have shared our conversation below.

Eric, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Can you talk to us about a project that’s meant a lot to you?

The Cut is my most recent short film, which I wrote, directed, and produced. Filmed in 2022 and completed in 2023, this period piece is a deeply meaningful project.

The film is based on a true story set in the late 19th century when China was still under imperial rule. After centuries of isolation under the Closed-Door Policy, a group of young Chinese students was given a rare opportunity to travel to Connecticut, U.S., to study Western science, technology, and engineering. However, they were closely monitored by Qing imperial officials, who were tasked with ensuring their unwavering loyalty to the emperor. As part of this control, the students were regularly forced to worship the emperor’s portrait—an act that directly contradicted the values and knowledge they acquired in their American education.

Despite enduring mistreatment from the Chinese officials, the students excelled academically. As the story unfolds, one student, unable to endure the oppression any longer, chooses to resist.

At its core, The Cut explores the conflict between free will and authoritarian rule. Historically, similar incidents throughout the late 19th and early 20th centuries fueled a movement that ultimately led to the revolution that overthrew the Qing Dynasty, ending its 276-year reign.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

I’m Eric Chen, a Canadian film director and writer with a deep passion for storytelling. I hold a Bachelor’s degree and a Master’s degree in Fine Art from the University of the Arts London, UK, followed by a Master’s degree in Filmmaking from Kingston University, UK. To further refine my craft, I earned a third Master’s degree in Film from ArtCenter College of Design in Los Angeles.

With experience in producing and directing 10 short films and producing one feature film, I have worked across a variety of genres, including drama, action, horror, thriller, documentary, and experimental. My filmmaking journey has taken me across the UK, US, and Canada, allowing me to gain diverse industry experience.

My work has received multiple awards, including recognition for Best Director, Best Drama Short, and Best Experimental Film at international film festivals.

I am committed to telling powerful stories that engage and inspire audiences, always looking for new creative collaborations and opportunities in filmmaking.

How can we best help foster a strong, supportive environment for artists and creatives?

More freedom. I was born and raised in China, where film, photography, literature, and many other art forms are subject to strict government censorship. This control has severely hindered the growth and development of the creative ecosystem in the country. No script can be filmed without government approval, and no film can be submitted to international festivals or screenings without official authorization.

Seeing these restrictions in China has made me deeply aware of the importance of freedom—especially for artists. Creativity thrives on freedom, and without it, true artistic expression is impossible.

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

I love the process of transforming an idea from my mind into a visual story on screen—bringing it to life for others to see. It’s incredibly rewarding to witness the shift from initial confusion when I describe my concept in words to the moment of amazement when people finally see the finished film.

This transformation is a recognition of my creativity and vision, and it’s always a fulfilling experience to engage with audiences. I often learn from their reactions and perspectives, which helps me grow as a storyteller. As a film director, understanding the audience’s emotions is essential—it’s a crucial part of refining my ability to tell more compelling stories.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://124068480.wixsite.com/mysite (temporary)
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ericchenmoviedirector/