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

Yijia, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Did you always know you wanted to pursue a creative or artistic career? When did you first know?

The first time I knew I wanted to pursue a creative and artistic path professionally was when I was a child. I always fantasized about becoming a screenwriter and director, believing that a good story could inspire, uplift, and even change the world. Growing up in a small city in China, where pursuing film or arts was considered impractical and meaningless, I had to conform to my family’s expectations and entered business school, pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Finance and Management. However, I never gave up on my passion for scriptwriting.

Throughout my four years in college, I frequented the cinema. The more films I watched, the more intolerable I found certain vulgar and lowbrow elements in high-grossing movies—elements that most audiences, including those around me, didn’t even notice. For instance, the persistent objectification of female victims on screen, the crude jokes about women’s bodies, and more. I realized something was deeply wrong.

Beyond these, there was the exaggerated portrayal of male charisma, the flat and one-dimensional female characters, and the clumsy, incompetent female protagonists. As a woman, I knew we were not like this. I had had enough of these male-centric films and the pervasive, invisible gender discrimination in the world. I felt a strong urge to do something about it.

Thus, after graduation, I turned down high-paying job offers and moved to Los Angeles to study film. Here, I produced two feminist short films, “Flowers” and “Eggs.” This decision marked the beginning of my professional journey in the creative and artistic world, driven by a desire to create meaningful and inspiring stories that challenge societal norms and stereotypes.

Yijia, 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?

My journey into filmmaking began with a deep frustration toward the gender stereotypes and male-centric narratives dominating mainstream cinema. I wanted to create films that challenge these norms and bring authentic female perspectives to the forefront.

My focus is on feminist filmmaking, telling stories that empower women and highlight gender issues. My short films, “Flowers” and “Eggs,” reflect this commitment, showcasing women in realistic and empowering roles.

What sets my work apart is its dedication to feminist principles. I strive to create films that not only entertain but also provoke thought and inspire change. I’m proud of how my films have sparked conversations about gender equality.
For those interested in my work, know that each film is crafted with a passion for social justice and a desire to make a meaningful impact through storytelling.

We’d love to hear a story of resilience from your journey.

One story that illustrates my resilience is the creation of my short film, “Eggs.” This dark comedy focuses on the unequal distribution of resources and the neglected needs of women within a peculiar traditional Chinese family. The film employs a plethora of metaphors, allegories, and cultural imagery to convey its message.

From the outset, my mentors and friends considered the story to be quite provocative, believing it wouldn’t “please” audiences. They also thought the subject was too niche and that Western audiences might not understand this specific Eastern perspective on women’s struggles. However, I believe that the experiences of women are universal. I wasn’t seeking validation or understanding; I wanted to expose the often overlooked and normalized struggles that women face within families.

Since I started creating feminist-themed shorts, I’ve frequently received feedback like, “There’s nothing special about this.” My films, which incorporate East Asian feminist perspectives, might not achieve significant recognition at Western film festivals. But I see myself as a storyteller. Some stories need to be told; some voices need to be heard. No matter how challenging the creation process is or how much skepticism I encounter, I will continue to create.

What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?

My creative journey is driven by a mission to challenge gender stereotypes and amplify women’s voices through film. I aim to create stories that empower women and provoke thought, inspiring change and fostering a more equitable world.

Contact Info:

• Website: YijiaCherSun.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cherinocean/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61553241941562
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yijia-sun-4122352a2/