We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Wei Li a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Wei, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Let’s jump right into how you came up with the idea?

As a film editor and lead assistant editor, my creative process is guided by a two-fold approach: using my heart to empathize with the needs of the story, characters, and emotions, and always thinking a little bit more than what others might expect. By connecting emotionally with the material, I immerse myself in the narrative, feeling the story and understanding the characters on a profound level. This empathetic approach allows me to grasp the underlying themes and subtle nuances, ultimately translating them into the editing process. It is through this heartfelt connection that I aim to craft a film that resonates deeply with the audience, evoking genuine emotional responses.

However, I believe in going beyond the expected. I constantly challenge myself to think beyond conventional approaches and explore innovative possibilities. By exceeding the anticipated boundaries, I strive to bring fresh perspectives and creative insights to the editing process. This may involve experimenting with different cuts, exploring non-linear storytelling techniques, or suggesting additional scenes that enhance the overall narrative impact. By pushing the limits and offering unexpected solutions, I aim to elevate the film to new heights and deliver an experience that surpasses expectations.

Wei, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

I entered the film industry through a series of steps driven by my passion and dedication. Initially, I pursued a Bachelor’s degree in bio techniques, but my deep-rooted interest and passion for filmmaking led me to make a significant shift. I decided to pursue an MFA in Film Production in the United States, specifically at Chapman University. This academic endeavor allowed me to cultivate my skills and immerse myself in the world of filmmaking.

During my time at Chapman University, I took a proactive approach to furthering my career. I eagerly sought out opportunities to participate in various film sets, competitions, and film festivals. This proactive involvement not only allowed me to learn and grow as a filmmaker but also helped me develop a competitive edge in the industry. Each experience added valuable knowledge and skills to my repertoire.

Recognizing the importance of connections in the industry, I actively sought networking opportunities. One notable event I attended was the ACE (American Cinema Editors) party, where I had the opportunity to learn from seasoned professionals and gain insights from their experiences. They also gave me so much encouragement. Building connections with industry veterans not only provided valuable guidance but also opened doors to potential opportunities that could further propel my career.

In my journey, I have learned to grab every opportunity that comes my way, regardless of the project’s size or scope. I approach each endeavor with utmost seriousness, ensuring that I deliver work that exceeds expectations. Even on small projects, I strive to bring my best, consistently going the extra mile to showcase my skills and dedication. This commitment to excellence has helped me establish a reputation for delivering exceptional work, which, in turn, has led to more opportunities within the industry.

One of the most impressive works I have been involved in is a short film titled “Midnight Hong Kong,” created for The Hongkong On-Screen Film Festival. This project stands out to me because of the unique circumstances and challenges we faced throughout its production.

When we received the footage, it was apparent that we had a challenging task ahead of us. The footage was disorganized, and time was of the essence. As the editor, my first priority was to establish and build the emotional foundation of the film. Once we captured the desired emotions, the subsequent editing process became much smoother. We meticulously examined every frame, investing a whole day in selecting the best shots from the limited footage available. Through continuous communication and collaboration with the client, we managed to overcome the challenges and deliver an exceptional final product.

Our efforts paid off, as “This is us” became the opening film for the entire Hongkong On Screen Film Festival. Not only did it fulfill the initial requirements, but it also left a lasting impact, solidifying its position as an enduring feature of the festival’s future events. This project serves as a testament to our dedication, adaptability, and ability to deliver outstanding work, even in the face of tight deadlines and challenging circumstances.

What do you think helped you build your reputation within your market?

Building my reputation within the market is influenced by several factors, one of which is what sets me apart from others in the industry. To distinguish myself, I prioritize continuous learning and growth. I believe in constantly expanding my knowledge and keeping up with the latest techniques and trends. By remaining curious and inquisitive, I develop the ability to ask the right questions and find solutions to challenges that may arise. This mindset of continuous improvement and staying up-to-date allows me to maintain professionalism and be a reliable resource in the industry.

Networking is another crucial aspect of building my reputation. I approach networking fearlessly, seeking opportunities to learn from and connect with others in the industry. By embracing the chance to meet mentors and life teachers, I gain valuable insights and guidance that contribute to my career advancement. Engaging with industry professionals strengthens me and enhances my capabilities as a filmmaker.

Taking each project seriously is paramount to me. Regardless of the size or scope, I treat every assignment as the most important one. Each successful project becomes a testament to my abilities and serves as a showcase to demonstrate my skills and professionalism to others. By consistently delivering great work, I establish myself as a reliable and respected professional within the industry.

Lastly, maintaining strong collaboration with every crew member is vital. Understanding their needs and going above and beyond their expectations allows me to build strong working relationships. Recognizing that film production is a collaborative endeavor, I value teamwork and strive to put myself in the shoes of others. By fostering a positive and supportive environment, I contribute to the smooth flow of the production, ensuring a job well done for the entire crew.

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

For me, one of the most rewarding aspects of being an artist or creative is the recognition and appreciation I receive from others for my work. When my artistic expression resonates with people, evokes emotions, or sparks a meaningful connection, it is incredibly fulfilling. Knowing that my work has made a positive impact on someone’s life or has been able to convey a message or story effectively brings a deep sense of satisfaction.

Receiving recognition from peers, industry professionals, and audiences can be a powerful validation of my artistic journey. It affirms that my creative endeavors have value and that they contribute to the larger artistic landscape. Whether it’s through awards, accolades, positive reviews, or simply heartfelt feedback from viewers, recognition from others reinforces my passion and encourages me to continue pushing boundaries and exploring new artistic avenues.

Moreover, recognition from others can also open doors to new opportunities, collaborations, and connections within the creative community. It can lead to further artistic growth, exposure to a wider audience, and the chance to share my work on a larger platform. This recognition creates a sense of validation and inspires me to continue honing my craft, pushing myself creatively, and striving for excellence.

Ultimately, while the creative process itself is incredibly rewarding, the recognition and appreciation from others serve as a powerful affirmation of the impact and value of my artistic pursuits. It fuels my motivation, encourages my artistic growth, and reinforces my belief in the transformative power of art.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://weilifilm.com/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lwmui/