We were lucky to catch up with Yujie “logan” Luo recently and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Yujie “Logan” thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. We’d love to hear about a project that you’ve worked on that’s meant a lot to you.

The most meaningful project I’ve worked on is my short film, “Contact.” Initially, I was always an observer in the world of screenwriting, but this project pushed me to step out of the sidelines and fully embrace my own voice.

“Contact” was inspired by a close friend and tells the story of a cross-dresser on a journey of self-discovery after meeting an online friend. As I developed the script, I found myself confronting my own fears and judgments—realizing that the protagonist’s struggles mirrored my personal battles with self-acceptance and the pressure of societal norms. I even recognized that I was often harshly judging myself, afraid of being labeled as “strange.”

Taking the brave step to share my plans with friends and family, I was met with an unexpected wave of support. Their enthusiasm and openness reaffirmed my belief that this film could spark meaningful conversations about gender and identity. The project became a turning point, not only in my filmmaking career but also in my personal life, as it marked my journey from passive observer to active participant in both art and life.

Inspired by films like “La La Land” and “Moonlight,” I realized that filmmaking is a powerful tool for self-discovery and social change. With “Contact,” I aimed to challenge traditional gender stereotypes and create a narrative that resonates with a generation looking to redefine identity on its own terms.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

I was born and raised in Nanchang, Jiangxi, China, where my passion for filmmaking first took root. It all began with a simple impulse—to capture everyday moments at school—and quickly evolved into a deep commitment to visual storytelling. I pursued my undergraduate studies in film production in Macau, a transformative period during which I learned to make the most of limited resources and discovered the power of collaboration and creativity.

Today, I’m a graduate student in the AFI Editing program—a journey that has helped me transition from being a quiet observer of the world to an active voice championing diversity. My work centers on short films that explore pressing social issues, drawing on personal experiences and a commitment to challenging conventional perspectives. While I might have once stayed on the sidelines, I now see every project as an opportunity to spark meaningful dialogue and foster understanding.

What sets my work apart is this blend of authenticity and innovation. I take pride in crafting narratives that not only entertain but also encourage viewers to see the world through a broader lens. By carefully weaving together compelling visuals and thoughtful storytelling, I strive to connect with audiences on an emotional level—even when working with modest resources.

For future collaborators, my journey is about more than just filmmaking. It’s about transforming personal insights into art that contributes to a richer, more inclusive cultural conversation. I’m excited to continue evolving as a storyteller, and I look forward to contributing to a media landscape that values diversity, creativity, and genuine human connection.

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

Absolutely. My creative journey is fueled by a mission to redefine how stories are told. I’m committed to writing and editing films that move beyond clichéd portrayals and instead highlight the rich diversity of human experience. I strive to create narratives that allow underrepresented voices to shine, challenging stereotypes and evoking deep emotional responses from audiences. In essence, my goal is to craft work that not only entertains but also inspires viewers to see the world—and themselves—in a new light.

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

For me, the greatest reward lies in the recognition that comes when a film genuinely connects with its audience, especially when it gives a platform to minority voices. I find the post-production process incredibly satisfying, as it’s where I get to solve creative challenges and align every visual detail with the story’s emotional core. Watching how cinematography can translate a director’s vision into powerful imagery—and seeing that vision come to life on screen—reminds me that every hurdle overcome is a step toward creating meaningful art.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://yujieloganluo.wixsite.com/home
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mi_kan_dayo?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
• Other: https://filmfreeway.com/YujieLuo

Image Credits

Yujie “Logan” Luo, Victoria “V” Warren, Haoyi Peng, Jiakun Liu, Junwei Chen