Today we’d like to introduce you to Sarah Park.
Hi Sarah, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I moved to Los Angeles from Seoul about 4.5 years ago to attend the American Film Institute in its Producing MFA program – with the dream of becoming a Hollywood filmmaker. I am still unsure about the exact catalyst that brought me to this industry, but I just loved watching movies. The act of disconnecting from reality and immersing myself in entirely different or occasionally parallel worlds has always been a source of joy for me, and turning that into a lifelong profession seems like a dream.
My academic background was in Theological Studies. I believe it did provoke me a little bit – in a way that each religious ideology and folklore are almost like well-written narratives. I wanted to tell a story that brings people together and opens up conversations. Often times it can be challenging to talk about controversial, social, or political topics in today’s world, but it will always be easy to chat about a movie.
Since graduating from AFI in 2022, I have worked professionally on two feature films and a TV series. Being in production has helped me understand all the little moving parts of filmmaking. I am currently developing a short proof of concept and a feature film with amazing collaborators to begin producing them in the coming year!
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?
Definitely not haha. Coming from a different cultural background, speaking a different language, and finding my footing in a new place and industry as a young Asian female professional presented challenges at every turn. Add to that the curveballs of a pandemic and a year filled with much-needed but sometimes draining strikes.
Nevertheless, I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunities to connect and work with filmmakers from diverse backgrounds. I’m genuinely relishing the vibrant and diverse landscape of this industry, much like a well-assorted salad, full of unique stories waiting to be told.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I’m a writer-producer in film. I enjoy developing and working on a variety of movies, including experimental films, psychological thrillers, and heartwarming dramas.
I would say I am pretty particular with the projects I take on or the way a project is being made, and I take pride in that. I have a strong sense of what I like and what works for me, however, this doesn’t mean I impose my preferences on others.
Even though it might seem unusual for a producer to be selective, I believe it’s a strength. It ensures that I’m genuinely invested in the stories I help bring to life. While I do share my thoughts, I believe the best stories come from the creators themselves. I aim to create a collaborative space where everyone’s voices contribute to telling a compelling story.
Where we are in life is often partly because of others. Who/what else deserves credit for how your story turned out?
Everyone I’ve crossed paths with in this industry, from my AFI classmates and mentors to the crew members on set, has left their mark on me, big or small. What makes the experience of working in film truly remarkable is the constant inspiration drawn from the individuals who surround you.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sparkhyunji/
