Today we’d like to introduce you to James Li.
Hi James, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
As a child, I’ve always had dreams of living in worlds of fiction. As I grew a little more, I was able to realize the root of those dreams. A deep wish to escape reality and all the pain and burden that comes with it.
Growing up, my father had high expectations for me, which was very hard for an ordinary child like me to match up to. Having gotten his master’s and undergrad degrees in some of the best universities, my father is the most successful member of our family in the last couple of generations. So living up to his standards was always going to be a struggle.
As I entered high school, unfortunate circumstances has made it impossible for me to socialize and communicate with others properly. Deep social anxiety, depression became daily routines, I was rarely happy. While I thought filmmaking was the dream I wanted to pursue, at that time, the dream seemed faint.
After four years at a mediocre university, I received the opportunity to study at the AFI, where for the first time ever in my life. I felt good about myself. I felt good about my achievement, my skills and my work. And for the first time ever, I felt like that I was able to make my father proud.
I have came across many friends throughout different stages of my life, and it is they who shaped an ordinary person like me into something more. For they supported me every step of the way and provided me with opportunities that would wide my circle.
Growing up, I was raised mostly by my grandmother. Now, as a semi-functioning adult, I can happily say that I would not be here without her since she is the only person in the world that will love me regardless of what kind of person I become.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey have been a fairly smooth road?
Mental health has been a huge struggle for me throughout the past 10 years, and working in the film industry, communication and socialization proved to be incredibly difficult. I relied on alcohol heavily to get across those barriers, but after two years of working with really talented people who helped me overcome these issues, I’m starting to do better in that avenue.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
As a film and video editor, my favorite piece of work is a short film I edited. “Waipo”, a horror short revolving around a Chinese American mother and son and their dynamic with the son’s girlfriend. Who is an American Born Chinese who grew up in the States. I’ve always been fascinated with horror and this short film examines elements that goes beyond the thrill and terror. It examines the clash of cultures, traditions and generational gap.
Is there a quality that you most attribute to your success?
Open-minded, and willing to take on any opportunity. Being nice and always trying to help others. And not giving up on my dreams and keep honing my craft. Always be sure to surround myself with people I can trust and will push me to do better.
Contact Info:
- Website: jlifilm.com
- Instagram: @JAMESLLII
Image Credits
Taken by a friend/family member.
