Today we’d like to introduce you to Eddie Yukun Long
Eddie Yukun, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
Growing up in a family with an academic background, I was brought up with a deep appreciation for literature and critical thinking from a young age. As I immersed myself in the world of books and ideas, I discovered my innate passion for storytelling. However, it wasn’t until my college years that I realized my true passion lay in the art of film.
In my freshman year at NYU, I took a leap of faith and enrolled in a filmmaking course. It was a decision fueled more by curiosity than certainty, but it was a decision that would change the course of my life. As I sat in those early classes, learning the basics of making films, I felt something stir within me. There was a thrill in the creative process, a sense of possibility in the act of capturing moments on film. Wanting to continue exploring this art form, I applied for a transfer to the Film & Television Production program at Tisch School of the Arts. To my surprise, I was accepted. So I was like, okay, let’s give it a try!
Following that, I shot several short films and the feeling of being a writer-director really fulfills me. It’s so magical to see the stories that once only existed in my mind come true. Drawing on my background in philosophy and art history, I sought to exploring themes of identity, memories, and interpersonal relationships. My film has been selected and won awards at Qfest St. Louis, American Pavilion Emerging Filmmaker Showcase, and so on. I also worked as a Production Designer and Producer for films and videos of other people as I love to see how I can assist others in making their visions come true. The films I have worked on have been screened at the Clermont-Ferrand Short Film Festival, Rochester Film Festival, Sarasota Film Festival, New York International Film Festival, and so on.
After graduation, I wanted to further expand my knowledge and expertise in the professional film industry. Working at major production companies like Imagine Documentaries provided me with invaluable insights and hands-on experience, allowing me to refine my skills and navigate the fast-paced nature of the industry. As an independent filmmaker, I keep learning while trying out new things, and this journey has been so interesting and meaningful for me.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Navigating the entertainment and filmmaking industry as a young artist in a foreign country has not been an easy road as it can be so overwhelming and full of uncertainties. However, it has been both challenging and rewarding.
Unlike some other art forms, filmmaking is a collaborative process that requires a cohesive and creative team. Transitioning from working independently to embracing teamwork was a significant adjustment for me. However, I’ve come to realize the immense value of collaboration, not only for practical on-set assistance but also for the invaluable exchange of ideas and feedback among peers. I can’t stress enough how many times I have gotten some brilliant ideas from conversations with fellow filmmakers and how they helped to make my vision come true.
Finding my own voice and identity in the realm of cinema has been a journey of self-discovery and introspection. When I just started, I was struggling to find the importance of the stories I wanted to tell and often held doubts about myself. “Will other people want to see my film?” “What if no one is interested in what I’m interested in besides me?”– these are some of the questions that most often appeared in my mind when I started this path. Being in a foreign country where the culture I came from isn’t part of the mainstream culture, it’s easy to think that my story doesn’t matter or it’s not going to be attractive to people.
Over time, however, I’ve grown to embrace the uniqueness of my perspective and the stories I have to share. It has taken a journey of self-assurance and belief in my creative voice to recognize that my experiences and cultural background bring a distinct and valuable perspective to the world of cinema.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
As an independent filmmaker, I thrive in the dynamic intersection of storytelling, production, and design. While I enjoy writing and directing my own films, I wear multiple hats, often taking on roles as a producer and production designer for other people’s projects.
As a writer-director, my specialty lies in crafting narratives that delve deep into the intricate emotional landscapes of human existence. Themes of self-reflection, familial dynamics, and interpersonal relationships form the backbone of my storytelling. Films like “Blub Blub,” “Emiri,” and “Fog Up” are examples of my style and tone. What sets me apart is my keen attention to detail and my ability to capture the fleeting moments that often go unnoticed but deeply impact people. It’s in these seemingly ordinary moments that I find the true essence of humanity, and it’s through my storytelling that I strive to present it.
In my role as a producer, I bring a hands-on approach and a wealth of experience from my experience working in major companies in the industry. My background has honed my skills in management, organization, and effective communication across multiple departments. Because of my dedication to telling good stories, I’m deeply invested in ensuring a smooth and collaborative journey for the entire team.
Additionally, my passion for production design stems from my artistic background, where I explored designing spaces, color palettes, and curating elements that enhance the narrative. It’s so magical to see my creative vision come to life on screen, shaping characters and environments and helping the director tell the story. Working on different roles has provided me with invaluable insights into the filmmaking process, making me a more well-rounded director for my own works.
Is there any advice you’d like to share with our readers who might just be starting out?
For those just starting out, my advice is simple: be brave, believe in yourself, and follow your heart. Now, I know these words can sometimes sound cliché, but trust me, they hold a lot of truth.
Looking back, I wish I had been braver in pursuing opportunities, connecting with people, and showcasing my work and ideas. It’s easy to doubt yourself, especially in an overwhelming environment like the film industry, where it feels like everyone else is more experienced and powerful. But here’s the thing: it never hurts to ask, to try, to seek insights. What’s the worst that could happen? People won’t laugh at someone who’s earnestly seeking a chance. And more often than not, there will be someone who’s willing to give you a chance and teach you something important. If that happens, make sure you’re prepared to take on the challenge and really make the opportunity worthwhile.
Another piece of advice I’d give is to believe in your voice. It’s true what they say: everyone has a unique voice to offer. Even if you think your upbringing or experiences are just like everyone else’s, your story is still uniquely yours. Don’t fall into the trap of thinking that only certain types of stories matter. There are no limits to what you can achieve, so don’t set limits on yourself. Your voice matters, and your stories are important. Embrace them, and don’t be afraid to share them with the world.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://songosh7.wixsite.com/eddieyukunlong
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wixsongosh_/
