We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Rui Dong. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Rui below.

Alright, Rui thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. What’s been the most meaningful project you’ve worked on?

In the transformative landscape of 2023, I, as a filmmaker and artist, am elated to reflect upon the meaningful projects that have defined this pivotal year in my creative journey. At the forefront stands “The Mirror,” a short film that I directed and produced—a profound exploration of storytelling and visual expression. Following this, my involvement in projects such as “A Better Life,” “UMIT,” “Destiny,” “Creatures of the Night,” “The Serene Place Where The Stars Poop,” and “Revolutionary” has added layers to my identity as a producer. Each of these endeavors holds a special place, contributing to my growth and shaping the artist I am today. These projects span across different genres, carrying diverse meanings and evoking various emotions. I aspire to continue delivering distinct and enriching experiences to audiences in the future, perpetuating my journey as a filmmaker. As I look back on this year’s creative odyssey, these projects stand as a testament to the depth and diversity of experiences that have fueled my artistic evolution, and I’m profoundly grateful for all of them.

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 hail from Dalian, China, and my journey to becoming a producer and director found me in the bustling creative landscape of Los Angeles. While my family lacked connections to the film industry, my deep-rooted passion for cinema guided my path. Upon arriving in the U.S. for higher education, a twist of fate led me to the captivating world of film during my time at community college. Inspired by friends deeply immersed in content creation, I transferred to UC Santa Cruz, where I delved into film and digital media.

The theoretical foundations of film at UCSC combined with practical experiences, such as creating music videos for our band, sparked my realization that filmmaking was my true calling. The turning point arrived in my final semester when I enrolled in a film production course, marking the beginning of my filmmaking odyssey.

Seeking further growth, I pursued an MFA in Filmmaking at the New York Film Academy in Burbank. These transformative two years allowed me to produce and direct my films, culminating in my thesis project, ‘The Mirror.’ This film, beyond serving as a significant milestone for my degree, stands as a powerful proof of concept for my feature project. “The Mirror” has garnered attention on the festival circuit, reaffirming my commitment to storytelling and its potential impact.

Armed with the knowledge gained at NYFA, I ventured into the filmmaking industry, producing a diverse array of short films, commercials, and music videos. My experience as a production coordinator at an entertainment company further honed my skills.

Currently, I am passionately holding and collaborating on my feature script, with the hope that “The Mirror” and its compelling narrative will soon grace the big screen. My international background, coupled with a unique storytelling approach, sets me apart in the dynamic world of filmmaking, and I am excited to continue my creative journey.

Is there something you think non-creatives will struggle to understand about your journey as a creative? Maybe you can provide some insight – you never know who might benefit from the enlightenment.

Certainly, as a filmmaker, there are aspects of my creative journey that might be challenging for non-creatives to fully understand. One key element is the emotional investment in each project. Filmmaking is not just a job; it’s a deeply personal and passionate endeavor. The attachment to the stories I tell and the characters I bring to life is profound, and each project becomes an extension of myself.

Non-creatives might find it difficult to grasp the constant interplay between artistic vision and practical constraints. The process involves not only nurturing creative ideas but also navigating the complex landscape of budgets, logistics, and unforeseen challenges. It’s a delicate balance that requires both imagination and strategic thinking.

The nonlinear nature of the creative process is another aspect that might be less apparent to those outside the creative realm. Ideas don’t always follow a linear path from conception to execution. The journey involves exploration, iteration, and sometimes even setbacks before reaching the final product. It’s a dynamic and evolving process that can be hard to encapsulate in a straightforward narrative.

Moreover, the perpetual pursuit of perfection and the quest for unique storytelling might seem elusive to non-creatives. The commitment to continuous improvement, the willingness to take creative risks, and the resilience to learn from failures are integral parts of the creative journey.

In essence, the life of a filmmaker goes beyond the glamour of the screen. It involves a deep emotional connection to the craft, a constant negotiation between creativity and practicality, and a commitment to growth and innovation. It’s a journey that, while challenging, is immensely fulfilling for those who are passionate about bringing stories to life on the big screen.

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

The most rewarding aspect of being an artist or creative, especially as a filmmaker, for me, lies in the ability to evoke emotions, provoke thoughts, and create meaningful connections with audiences. Film allows me to share unique perspectives, tell compelling stories, and explore the depths of human experience. Witnessing the impact of my work on individuals, whether it’s sparking inspiration, fostering empathy, or igniting a sense of wonder, is incredibly fulfilling. The power to leave a lasting impression and contribute to the collective tapestry of human expression is what makes being an artist an endlessly rewarding journey.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://instagram.com/raydo_ng?igshid=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA==
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ray-dong-51648b183/
• Youtube: https://youtu.be/erte_c6kzQQ

Image Credits
Mingyuan Liu, Zuyou Liu, Kushagra Jain, Tianrun Shi, Andrea Orta