Today we’d like to introduce you to Lynn Tang
Hi Lynn, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I worked for many years as an international project manager. After retiring and selling my company, I began helping a Chinese filmmaker promote their film to American audiences. I quickly realized that there was a gap in the industry. International indie filmmakers have difficulty marketing their films in the United States.
When I first joined this industry, I knew nothing about filmmaking. I gained experience through volunteering with film festivals, including Ensenada Film Festival, Seoul Guro International Kids’ Film Festival, and Beijing International Children’s Film Festival.
After many years of effort I have built a reputation within Hollywood. I run three annual film festivals. I have also produced several films, a webseries, and even a Broadway show!
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Of course there were challenges. Building a reputation has been hard work. I had no connections in Hollywood when I started, which made accessing the grants and sponsorships necessary for festivals difficult. I went to many networking events and made a social media presence to increase visibility for my company.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am incredibly proud of the films I have produced. Especially the films that were made over the pandemic. They were a challenge for the entire crew.
My most recent films, “Tibetan Hearts” and “On Matriarchy Lake” feature cultures not often seen in cinema. “Tibetan Hearts” is a star-crossed romance set in the steppe of Tibet. “On Matriarchy Lake” is about a Chinese man who falls in love with a Mosuo woman, and the cultural differences they face. These films were made in collaboration with the Tibetan and Mosuo people and filmed on location.
These films were challenging to make due to their unique circumstances. The pandemic began during the production of “On Matriarchy Lake”. Many of the intended cast and crew of “Tibetan Hearts” were unable to enter the region, so locals were cast in many roles. The director worked remotely, away from the set while the rest of the crew filmed on location.
I am proud of the impact these films have. The Tibetans and Mosuos we collaborated with are so excited to have their cultures represented in Hollywood. “Tibetan Hearts”, in particular, has won awards at festivals, including Best Cinematography at Riverside International Film Festival and Silicon Beach Film Festival. I personally received an award for Best Foreign Producer at La Femme International Film Festival.
I am also very excited to work on my upcoming film “Mayflower East”. This drama about Chinese students restarting their lives in 1980s America is special to me because it reflects my own experiences and the struggles of my generation. We plan to begin shooting at the end of this year or early next year.
We’d love to hear about any fond memories you have from when you were growing up?
My favorite childhood memory is performing in fields. We would entertain the farmers in the countryside. I learned to project my voice loudly so that they could all hear it.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://maeya.org/films/maeyafilms.html
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/maeya_film/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Maeyafilms/
- Twitter: https://x.com/maeyafilms
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@maeyagroup
