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

Ziqi, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today We’d love to hear about a project that you’ve worked on that’s meant a lot to you.

One of the most meaningful works for me was a short film I produced titled “A Roadside Banquet.” It tells the story of a 11-year-old girl attending her baby brother’s one-year-old birthday party. Having lived in the US for 7 years, this was the first time I, as an Asian woman, produced a story representing my own culture. In 2016, my younger sister was born, with an age gap of 18 years between us. I spent many years pondering the delicate relationship between my sister and me, and for this project, I found a perfect match in collaboration with my director, Peng Peiqi. This film was completed during the pandemic, with all the scenes shot on location in Los Angeles. We designed, set up, and recreated the most authentic Chinese banquet. The process of creating this film not only deepened my connection to my roots but also solidified my vision as a producer. Now, this film has been showcased in over thirty film festivals worldwide.

Ziqi, 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?

Certainly, taking all the provided details into consideration, here’s a well-rounded answer for your interview question:

My name is Ziqi Gao, and I wear the dual hats of a producer and assistant director, based both in Los Angeles and Beijing. My journey into the world of filmmaking began with a foundation in directing from the School of Visual Art in New York, and further, I honed my skills in producing at the renowned AFI.

As a professional in the film industry, my spectrum of services encompasses a range of productions: from short films, dramas, animated shorts to commercials. But it’s not just about the format or medium for me; it’s about the essence of storytelling. I pride myself on my ability to communicate effectively with directors and scriptwriters, ensuring that the story’s heart and soul are beautifully conveyed to the audience.

What sets me apart is my profound understanding of stories. At the core, every film, every drama, every animation is about a narrative. And having been trained in both directing and producing, I have a unique lens to view these narratives, ensuring they resonate with viewers as they’re meant to.

Speaking of narratives, some of the works I’m most proud of include “A Roadside Banquet,” which graced film festivals like the Cleveland Film Festival, New York Asian Film Festival, and the New Orleans Film Festival. Another notable production is “Kodama,” which received accolades at the New York International Film Awards, Cine Gear Expo, and the Korea International Short Film Festival.

To potential clients, followers, and fans, I want to say this: Behind every project I undertake, there’s an unyielding commitment to authenticity, creativity, and excellence. Whether it’s a commercial or a short film, my goal is to not only tell a story but to make it memorable, impactful, and truly resonate with its audience.

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

Here’s a refined response for the question based on your answer:

Being an artist, particularly in the role of a producer, is indeed a path fraught with challenges. Beyond the tangible skills and services we provide, there’s a significant element of serendipity, with many aspects relying on pure luck and chance. Financial stability, for one, can be elusive, making the journey even more arduous. Yet, despite these hurdles, the rewards of being an artist are unparalleled. To me, the most gratifying aspect is the sheer unpredictability and freshness that each project brings; I’m never tethered to monotonous tasks. More profoundly, my artistic endeavors allow me to forge a deep connection with the world. As I seek out and uncover stories, I find myself continually immersed in a process of exploration and discovery. This relationship with storytelling doesn’t just fulfill my creative spirit but also enhances my understanding and appreciation of the diverse tapestry of human experiences.

How do you keep your team’s morale high?

In the realm of film producing, where countless intricate elements come together to create a singular vision, effective communication stands out as the linchpin of successful team management. It’s not just about relaying information; it’s about understanding the dynamics of the team, recognizing who needs to be in the loop, and ensuring everyone is aligned with the project’s objectives. As a producer, I’ve learned that it’s crucial to identify who should be on the same page with you at every stage of production. This ensures a streamlined process, minimizes potential misunderstandings, and upholds the integrity of the vision. However, equally vital is knowing when to step back and trust your team. Delegating and giving them the space to communicate and execute their expertise allows for creative freedom and fosters a sense of ownership among team members. Ultimately, this balanced approach to communication and trust not only drives the project forward efficiently but also maintains high morale, as every member feels valued and understood in their contributions to the film.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/irisziqi/
• Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/ziqi-iris-gao
• Other: Latest work <A Roadside Banquet>: www.aroadsidebanquet.com

Image Credits
Personal Photo credit ：FIRST International Film Festival Additional Photo: p2/ p3 by Yukun Chan