Today we’d like to introduce you to Mona Yu
Hi Mona, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
Growing up on the cusp of the Millennial and Gen Z generations, I had the unique experience of straddling two distinct eras, which allowed me to witness the world both with and without the pervasive influence of media. My childhood was a blend of timeless activities alongside the modern pleasures of engaging with technology. I experienced the transition from analog to digital, remembering the early days of VHS tapes while also becoming familiar with streaming services. I vividly remember the countless hours spent watching films and TV shows with my grandmother. They introduced me to new cultures, ideas, and emotions. The ability to see stories come to life on screen fascinated me and sparked a deep-seated desire to understand visual narratives. Inspired by the cultural zeitgeist of the late 90s and early 2000s, I began to cultivate a deep interest in art and performance.
When I was six, I acted in the role of a renowned Beijing Opera master in a PSA short. My character grew up in a flash with a mesmerizing spinning movement. My mother had always dreamed of me becoming a performer, so did myself, which then led me into a world of auditions. For most of my youth before turning 15, I portrayed a scripted character meticulously crafted by her. When the lights dimmed and the camera stopped rolling, I felt alienated from myself, like a stranger trapped within my own skin.
At the age of 15, I embarked on my solo adventure from Beijing to Los Angeles for high school. Living away from my family in an unfamiliar country with language barriers at a young age was overwhelming, but at the same time, I was fascinated by the allure of Hollywood. The people chasing their dreams and the stories unfolding every day in Hollywood captivated me. By chance, I joined the drama club in high school, which allowed me to uncover my genuine passion for storytelling. I discovered that I found greater fulfillment in creating and depicting stories. I delved into writing the real-life narratives of the people I encountered. I realized that I truly enjoy being behind the scenes, shaping and crafting stories rather than being on stage. With my newfound interest in writing and my longtime love of visual narratives, I decided to become a filmmaker. Fortunately, I was accepted into the Film and TV Production major at NYU Tisch, leading me to take the next significant step in my journey from LA to NYC.
When I first landed, I was lost in the concrete jungle, feeling small and mediocre compared to the unique individuals around me. However, my years at NYU were truly life-changing. Surrounded by a diverse and talented community, I honed my craft through rigorous coursework and collaborative projects. The vibrant, fast-paced energy of the city infused every aspect of my life, providing endless inspiration for me. I experienced spontaneous summer nights on the Lower East Side, vibrant spring moments in Central Park, rainy fall days in Chelsea, and magical winter times at Rockefeller Center. NYC became a living classroom, pushing me to explore new perspectives and deepen my understanding of the human experience. It helped me grow not just as an artist, but also as a person. This dynamic environment fueled my creativity and solidified my commitment to becoming a filmmaker who tells compelling, impactful stories.
It’s been a year since my graduation, and I reflect on my journey with immense gratitude.Everyone single person and experience along the way has contributed to my personal and professional growth, teaching me resilience, creativity, and determination. As I move back to Los Angeles, I am excited to explore new opportunities and continue my journey in filmmaking, dedicated to creating impactful stories that resonate with audiences.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Many people around me think I am lucky – I’ve lived in major cities across different countries, been accepted into my dream university, and have supportive parents. I don’t deny these blessings, but only I know the true challenges I’ve faced. Having lived alone in a foreign country at a very young age, I endured countless sleepless nights filled with homesickness and learned to be independent. I put in significant effort to learn a new culture and try to blend in. This year marks my ninth year in the United States, yet I am still searching for a true sense of belonging.
Throughout this journey, there have been countless setbacks, both big and small. From gaining recognition as I continuously work to prove my worth and navigate cultural differences, to recovering from a period of profound grief after losing four beloved family members within a year, the challenges have been both personal and professional. However, I have come to understand that struggle is a constant state that pushes me forward and makes me better. It is through these difficulties that we grow. Each challenge has been an opportunity for reflection and introspection, allowing me to find my identity and style of work as an individual and as an artist.
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?
I am currently a full time graduate student and part time freelance filmmaker based in LA and NY! I mainly focus on storytelling that captures the human experience with depth and authenticity. My work spans various aspects of film production, including writing, directing, and producing. I am known for my ability to create emotionally resonant narratives that explore complex characters and social issues, often drawing from my own diverse background and personal experiences.
My first short film, Gemini, is a coming-of-age narrative that I had the privilege to write, produce, and direct at NYU. The story revolves around a young girl escaping her manipulative and emotionally abusive mother to find closure. The short is now in post-production and entering the festival circuit. In addition, I have experience making commercial shorts, music videos, and several documentaries. While I am still exploring and refining my own vision and style, I am confident that I am on the right track.
I am devoted to crafting films that delve into the intricacies of human relationships and societal challenges. My specialization lies in bringing to life stories that might otherwise go unheard, particularly those that highlight the perspectives of underrepresented groups.I am also proud to be an Asian working overseas, serving as a bridge between different cultures. Through my films, I strive to promote genuine cultural exchange, highlighting the beauty and complexity of different perspectives.
What quality or characteristic do you feel is most important to your success?
The quality that I feel is most important to my success is perseverance, closely followed by my keen observation of life and a strong empathy. Perseverance has been my guiding force, enabling me to push through countless challenges and setbacks. Especially as a filmmaker, it’s a process that might last weeks, months, or even years.
Being an observer of life allows me to capture the subtle nuances of human behavior and emotion. I pay close attention to the world around me, finding inspiration in the everyday interactions and details that many might overlook.
Equally important is my strong sense of empathy. Understanding and feeling the emotions of others enables me to tell stories with genuine compassion. This empathy allows me to connect with people from all walks of life, ensuring that the stories I tell are inclusive and reflective of universal experience.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/monayu623/?hl=en
