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

Jiawen, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today We’d love to hear about a project that you’ve worked on that’s meant a lot to you.

I am thrilled to introduce my UCLA Thesis Film, “THE GUEST.” This comedy-drama captures a stormy yet humorous reunion between a mother and daughter on the daughter’s wedding day, delving into the intricate dynamics of mother-daughter relationships. Having written dramas and family narratives throughout my career, I am well-equipped to explore these complex relationships. However, the deeply personal nature of this story, coupled with its challenging themes, inspired me to venture into a new creative territory: comedy.

As a female director, I aim to express the intricacies of women’s lives through cinema. “THE GUEST” vividly illustrates the strength, complexity, and depth of female relationships. Comedy, particularly when intertwined with serious subject matter, demands a delicate balance. It requires careful modulation to ensure that the humor enhances, rather than undermines, the narrative’s gravity. This film blends poignant drama with absurd comedy, making the heavy themes more approachable and relatable, and it encourages viewers to reflect on their own familial bonds, navigating the complexities of love and conflict.

The wedding, intended as a dignified affair, descends into delightful chaos when the mother’s mischievous Yorkie dramatically marks the bride’s gown, sparking a series of unexpected mishaps. Training my own Yorkie for the film brought spontaneity and joy to our set, making the creative process lively and unpredictable. This new venture of collaborating with an animal not only was a source of joy and laughter but also added a unique charm to our storytelling.

I feel incredibly fortunate to have written and directed “THE GUEST.” This project not only deepened my love for comedy but also pushed me out of my comfort zone, fostering significant personal and professional growth.

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?

My name is Jiawen Han, and I am a film and TV commercial director based in Los Angeles. Last year, I earned my MFA in Narrative Film Directing from the UCLA School of Theater, Film, and Television.

As a female director, I am dedicated to creating compelling, female-driven stories. My film “SUMMER RAIN” addresses the struggles new mothers face with postpartum depression, delving deeply into the emotional and societal challenges women encounter. Another recent work, “THE GUEST,” explores the complex relationships and unresolved wounds within mother-daughter dynamics. I am passionate about exploring themes that resonate deeply with women—our identities, struggles, desires, wisdom, and freedom.

Before my studies at UCLA, I worked as a TV commercial director in Shanghai for three years. This role in one of the world’s leading advertising markets was both challenging and rewarding. It taught me to communicate effectively and maintain meticulous attention to detail. It also reinforced my commitment to precision and the importance of clear, impactful storytelling.

I am also drawn to stories that highlight the mundane lives of ordinary people, systemic gender inequalities, and often overlooked societal challenges. I have created 14 short films across China, New Zealand, Japan, and Mongolia, addressing a broad range of issues such as the implications of China’s ‘one-child policy,’ the challenges of elderly care, the plight of ‘left-behind’ children in rural areas, and the disparities faced by Asian women.

Breaking into an industry where few voices like mine have traditionally been heard has not been easy. As an Asian female filmmaker, every day is a learning experience, and I’m here to make a difference and open doors for more stories like ours to be told.

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

One of the most fulfilling parts of being a filmmaker and writer-director is the opportunity to create entire worlds from scratch. This process allows me to dive into fresh subjects and themes, getting to know completely new areas and crafting compelling characters along the way. Each film is an exploration, a deep dive into new experiences and ideas that are exhilarating.

Equally rewarding is the collaborative nature of filmmaking. Filmmaking is not a solo journey; it’s a collective endeavor that thrives on the shared efforts of the entire crew. Each person brings their own expertise and creativity, from the lighting technicians to the costume designers, making the filmmaking process a rich tapestry woven with diverse skills and ideas. It is this teamwork that transforms a vision into a vivid reality, enjoyed and connected with by audiences.

Together, these elements—creativity and collaboration—elevate filmmaking from a profession to a passion. Each project becomes a new adventure, providing opportunities to learn and grow alongside talented peers, and ultimately, to create something that might inspire others.

Are there any resources you wish you knew about earlier in your creative journey?

As a filmmaker, I believe that society can better support independent artists by providing comprehensive support through financial means, educational resources, and community engagement.

Financially, more accessible grants and funding are crucial for alleviating the burden of expensive production costs and expanding creative freedom. Artists can innovate and think independently only when they have financial stability. Historically and in today’s market, many artists struggle to sustain themselves solely through their creative work. Only a minority achieve market recognition and secure a substantial income.

Educationally, providing emerging filmmakers with workshops and mentorship is invaluable. My own experience in blending comedy and drama in “THE GUEST” would have greatly benefited from the guidance of experienced professionals and mentors. Offering affordable access to equipment and facilities is also essential, as it assists those who might not otherwise be able to afford these crucial production resources.

In terms of community engagement, enhancing support for film festivals and ensuring indie films are visible on various platforms can significantly improve their reach and audience engagement. Organizing regular networking events would also help filmmakers connect with potential collaborators and funders.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.jiawenh.com/
• Instagram: https://instagram.com/jiawen_han_?igshid=NzZlODBkYWE4Ng%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jiawen.han.378?mibextid=LQQJ4d
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jiawen-han-a5b12a172/