Check Out Jeff Lam’s Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to Jeff Lam.

Hi Jeff, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstories.
My Story? Wow, where to begin? I was born and raised on the tiny island of Oahu Hawaii. My most vivid memory is my dad taking me to the Cinerama Theater (in no relation to the one in LA), to stand in line to watch “The Empire Strikes Back”. Rewinding to a month or so before, my dad borrowed a LaserDisc Player from the shop he worked at with the Original “Star Wars” movie. These were the movies that made me want to be a part of Hollywood. But it wasn’t till I was 25, lost in my career, and had just moved back into my parent’s house to save money. I wanted to be an actor since I was a child.

So I decided to pack my things and move to LA to become an actor. Oh boy let me tell you, did my parents give me the longest speech about wasting my life and time? But ultimately I went forward and pursued my dreams of acting. Fast forwarding to 2007, I had received a script for an Asian American film and was obsessed with the lead role. The director’s email was on the script so I did what any motivated actor would do, contact him! After weeks of messaging, I met up with the director and was ready to “wow” him and get the role.

Come to my surprise, the director was playing the lead role. With that disappointment came a surprise. He asked if I’d produce the film with him. That was the start of my career from Actor to Producer. Since Covid, I’ve relocated to Germany with my girlfriend. And the one thing I can tell you all is, to cherish life and don’t let anyone or anything stand in your way. Just go for it!

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Nothing is ever a smooth road. In life, there are always obstacles that happen. From career to real life. The biggest roadblock I encountered was the lack of roles for Asian American actors and information on “How to…” in both paths I choose. I honestly wish there was a Dummies Guide too. Acting or Producing.

For producing, it was experiencing. Making mistakes and not making them again. Know your worth and always be open to constructive criticism to better yourself as a person and in your job.

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
As a Producer, the key thing is patience. Always listening and thinking ahead. The joke we always have within my group of co-workers and friends is, “What does a Producer do?” Honestly, my answer is “EVERYTHING…” Put the tv show/movie together, figure out catering, casting, crewing up and etc. What sets me apart from others is my patience with actors.

As a former actor myself, I understand how it feels to be treated with a certain respect. But the same goes for vice versa. If I don’t feel as if I’m getting the same respect. All bets are off! These are the ups and downs of Producers. You have to look like the bad guy even though you’re the good guy keeping everything moving smoothly.

If we knew you growing up, how would we have described you?
Oh man, when I was growing up in my younger years, I was such a Hot head. I was stubborn, short-tempered, and just ignorant in so many ways.

I think back to all my friends, former friends, and co-workers and I could’ve handled things a lot better knowing what I know now. But the fact is, I wouldn’t change a thing. The reason why I am the person I am now is the cause of my mistakes. Never let the past affect how you are now. Everyone can change.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm1344057/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/angryasianguy/

Image Credits
Matt Jong