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

Zhen, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. I’m sure there have been days where the challenges of being an artist or creative force you to think about what it would be like to just have a regular job. When’s the last time you felt that way? Did you have any insights from the experience?

As a child, I was always surrounded by stories. My open-minded parents encouraged me to read everything from dark folktales to detective novels by Agatha Christie, sci-fi, and crime stories. This exposure to a diverse range of narratives fostered an instinct in me to recognize and appreciate good storytelling. It was like unlocking a new world with every book.

So when I went to college at University of California, San Diego, driven by curiosity, I double-majored in theater and visual arts. I find a bigger canvas where stories are made via performance, visuals, sound, and the audience. It was during this time that I discovered the magic of filmmaking, and I knew instantly that I had found my calling. The ability to bring a story to life on screen, to evoke emotions, and to create a shared experience for an audience—it’s something that captivates me to this day.

I find it hard to imagine myself in a regular job. What excites me about filmmaking is the unpredictability and the constant demand for problem-solving. Every project is like a new puzzle, with its unique challenges—whether it’s working within a tight budget, managing a large team, or navigating creative differences. But it’s in these challenges that I find the most fulfillment. Collaborating with a talented team to overcome obstacles and bring a story to life is an exhilarating experience. There’s a thrill in facing the unknown and finding creative solutions.

Zhen, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

I am a freelance producer/filmmaker based in Los Angeles and Shanghai with a background in theater and visual arts. After graduating from UC San Diego in 2020. I furthered my academic journey at the American Film Institute, graduating as a producing fellow in 2023.

Being able to live in two countries, I love to blend diverse cultural and artistic elements into my work, making me a unique force in the industry. As a producer, my calm demeanor and trustworthy leadership have earned me respect in various projects. I’m dedicated to creating insightful and impactful works that not only entertain but resonate on a deeper level.

Throughout my journey, I’ve found it truly fulfilling to connect global artists and bring them together within the entertainment marketplace. I take pride in the cultural richness I bring to my projects and am dedicated to fostering meaningful collaborations in the global arts community. For me, producing isn’t just a job; it’s a way of life that keeps me energized and constantly growing.

What can society do to ensure an environment that’s helpful to artists and creatives?

Investments in accessible platforms and resources that empower creative expression are always helpful. This includes providing funding opportunities, grants, or even more avenues for artists to share their works.

Additionally, education and mentorship programs can play a vital role, in ensuring that diverse voices have the chance to be heard. It’s also important to create an environment where creative risks are encouraged and valued, allowing artists to innovate without fear of failure. My experience at AFI has been great where my connections and friendships have lasted beyond my time there and continue to be a source of inspiration and learning for me.

It is about recognizing the cultural and economic impact of the arts and ensuring that they remain a vital part of our communities.

Is there something you think non-creatives will struggle to understand about your journey as a creative?

It must be the emotional investment and unpredictability that comes with a creative journey. Every project is deeply personal, and the process often involves navigating a maze of uncertainties—creative blocks, shifting industry trends, and even financial instability. Unlike more structured professions, the path of a creative is rarely linear. You have to be comfortable with ambiguity, rejection, and the constant need to reinvent yourself.

There’s also an intense commitment to the craft. The long hours, the late nights, and there are always emergencies, etc. But there’s something magical about it too—the thrill of bringing an idea to life, of creating something that connects with others on a profound level. It is incredibly rewarding.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/louzhenny/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zhen-l-800887226/

Image Credits
Austin Chen & Tim Toda & Siyuan Che