Community Highlights: Meet Jera Wang of Narval Films

Today we’d like to introduce you to Jera Wang.

Hi Jera, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today.
My journey into the world of filmmaking is deeply rooted in my childhood experiences and a lifelong passion for storytelling. At the age of 5, my fascination with films was sparked when my parents opened an ice cream shop in our small city in China. The shop’s location in the central square happened to be right next to the only movie theater in town. I can still vividly recall the day I first laid eyes on the poster for “Titanic,” with its captivating imagery of the sunset, the cast, and the majestic ship. In that moment, I was enchanted by the beauty of cinema and knew that I wanted to be a part of that world. 

I seized the opportunity to embark on a new chapter in the United States as an international student at the age of 17. Adjusting to life away from family and friends was challenging at first but joining the theater club at my high school proved to be a pivotal moment. As I immersed myself in producing plays and working with choreography, I discovered a passion for bringing stories to life behind the scenes. 

One of the most fulfilling aspects of my involvement in the theater club was organizing trips to performing centers. Through these experiences, I had the chance to connect with students from diverse cultural backgrounds, each with their own unique stories and perspectives. It was during this time that I truly embraced the concept of “diversity” and realized the power of storytelling to bridge cultural divides and foster understanding. 

This exposure to diverse narratives and experiences laid the foundation for my journey as a filmmaker. Six years ago, I co-founded Narval Films, a production company dedicated to amplifying Asian American voices in cinema. Our mission is to collaborate with Asian American writers and directors to create a rich and varied content library that reflects the complexity and diversity of our community. 

Through Narval Films, we have had the privilege of showcasing our films at prestigious international film festivals such as Tribeca Film Festival, AFI Fest, Shanghai International Film Festival, and more. Our aim is to not only bring Asian American stories to a global audience but also to contribute to the rich tapestry of voices in the world of cinema, adding a unique Asian flavor to the diverse universe of storytelling. 

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?
While every filmmaking journey brings its own unique set of experiences, it’s safe to say that the road has been anything but smooth. Filmmaking is inherently challenging, with changes happening every second and a myriad of problems to solve along the way. As a producer and decision-maker, the weight of responsibility can be incredibly stressful. 

One of the biggest struggles I’ve faced is the constant need to adapt and problem-solve in real time. From unexpected weather conditions disrupting outdoor shoots to last-minute changes in casting or locations, there’s never a dull moment in the world of filmmaking. It requires quick thinking, flexibility, and the ability to stay calm under pressure. 

However, I am grateful to have an incredible team standing behind me, offering unwavering support and collaboration. Whether it’s the director, cast, crew, or production staff, knowing that I have a dedicated team by my side makes all the difference. Together, we navigate through the challenges, find creative solutions, and ultimately bring our collective vision to life on the screen. It’s this sense of camaraderie and shared passion that keeps me motivated and inspired, even during the most challenging of times. 

Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about Narval Films Inc.?
At Narval Films, our approach is rooted in humility and a deep appreciation for the talents and contributions of everyone involved in our projects. We recognize that filmmaking is a collaborative endeavor, and we are grateful for the trust and respect bestowed upon us by our partners. 

Our commitment to creating a supportive and inclusive environment stems from our belief that every individual, regardless of their role, deserves to feel valued and heard. We understand the importance of fostering a sense of safety and belonging, allowing creativity to flourish organically. 

What truly sets Narval Films apart is our genuine admiration for the art of filmmaking and the people who bring stories to life. We don’t take for granted the opportunity to work with incredibly talented individuals, and we approach each project with humility, knowing that there is always more to learn and explore. 

Ultimately, our goal is simple: to create meaningful and impactful cinema that resonates with audiences on a profound level. We are humbled by the trust placed in us and remain dedicated to honoring that trust through our commitment to excellence and integrity in every aspect of our work. 

We love surprises, fun facts, and unexpected stories. Is there something you can share that might surprise us?
One surprising aspect that often goes unnoticed about our work at Narval is the personal investment we have in each project. While we’re passionate about storytelling, what truly motivates us is the opportunity to contribute positively to the world around us. 

Behind the scenes, we strive to use our platform to shed light on important social issues and amplify voices that are often overlooked. Whether it’s advocating for marginalized communities or championing environmental causes, we believe in the power of storytelling to inspire change. 

Moreover, our team members bring a diverse range of backgrounds and experiences to the table. Each person’s unique perspective enriches our creative process and allows us to approach storytelling with humility and openness to learning. 

Ultimately, while our films and commercials may entertain and inform, we recognize that there is always more to learn and ways to improve. We’re grateful for the opportunity to contribute to meaningful conversations through our work and remain committed to continuous growth and learning as storytellers. 

Contact Info:

• Website: www.narvalfilms.com/  www.narvalproductions.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/narvalfilms/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/narvalfilmstudio/