Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Zilong Wang. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Zilong, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Can you talk to us about a project that’s meant a lot to you?

Produced by Chris Zilong Wang, the short film, Until He’s Born is a poignant tribute to her family and those affected by China’s one-child policy. Set in 1980s China, the short film follows Zheng Yuanwang, who inadvertently causes the death of his unborn brother and embarks on a journey to confront years of guilt and pain. I think most of the people around me are only children. Most of us, especially when the new second-child policy came into effect, were around 8 or 9 years old. Our parents would often ask us if we wanted a brother or sister, and our answer was always, “No, I don’t want to share the attention or love from my parents with another sibling.” I think that’s a natural reaction for most children around that age. I feel Qingxuan really captured that feeling in the story. You can call it bias or natural instinct. I think in general, the film brings back the issues of the time and immerses the audience into that era. Hopefully, it allows people to imagine what they would do in a similar situation. The film was official selection at Oakville Film Festival, Brisbane International Film Festival, Philadelphia Asian American Film Festival and Cannes Short Film Corner.

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?

Chris Zilong Wang is currently an independent producer based in New York. His past films have been official selections at Chicago International Film Festival, Rhode Island International Film Festival and Oberhausen International Short Film Festival… He is dedicated to producing high quality cinema that hope to bring more attention to Asian and Asian American culture and experience.

In your view, what can society to do to best support artists, creatives and a thriving creative ecosystem?

As an independent producer in New York City, I’ve seen firsthand the challenges that artists face, and I think there are several key ways society can step up to support us.

First off, fair financial support and compensation are crucial. Artists put their hearts and souls into their work, but too often, we’re not getting paid what we’re worth. We need more accessible grants, funding programs, and partnerships that truly recognize the value of artistic contributions. This kind of financial backing allows artists to focus on their craft without the constant worry of making ends meet.

We also need more affordable spaces. NYC is notoriously expensive, and that can be a barrier for many creatives. Having access to subsidized studios, rehearsal spaces, and venues can really empower artists to collaborate, experiment, and showcase their work. Community centers and local organizations could play a vital role in making this happen.

Mentorship and education are other areas where we can make a real difference. Establishing mentorship programs that connect emerging artists with industry veterans can help guide them through the complexities of the creative landscape. Workshops and continuing education opportunities can also help artists stay current with trends and techniques, which is essential in a fast-paced environment like NYC.

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

The most rewarding aspect of being an artist or creative, for me, lies in the ability to tell stories and evoke emotions through my work. There’s something incredibly fulfilling about taking an idea or experience and translating it into a piece that resonates with others. When an audience connects with my work—whether it’s through a film, a performance, or any creative project—I feel a profound sense of accomplishment.

I also cherish the collaborative nature of creativity. Working with other artists brings diverse perspectives and ideas, pushing me to explore new avenues and refine my craft. It creates a dynamic energy that often leads to unexpected and beautiful outcomes.

Moreover, the freedom to express oneself authentically is liberating. Art provides a unique platform to explore complex themes, challenge norms, and provoke thought, making it an essential part of societal dialogue. Knowing that my work can inspire others, spark conversations, or even provide solace in tough times makes all the hard work worthwhile. Ultimately, it’s about creating something meaningful and leaving a lasting impact on the world around me.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @chris.wzl
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chriszilongwang

Image Credits

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