Hidden Gems: Meet Jili (Gigi) Chen of Cerefilm Entertainment

Today we’d like to introduce you to Jili (Gigi) Chen.

Hi Jili (Gigi), thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I’ve always felt that I was particularly sensitive to visual elements. For example, I have a good memory because I tend to visualize things and organize them into mental frameworks. Friends often say I have a great sense of direction—not because of some innate GPS, but because I genuinely enjoy studying maps. When I visit a new place, the layout quickly takes shape in my mind, and even if I return ten years later, I can still recall how to navigate it.

This visual awareness naturally drew me toward photography and film since I was 12. I fell in love with film & TV in middle school—not just watching them, but also diving into behind-the-scenes stories. That passion eventually led me to Chapman University, where I spent four years studying creative producing. During that time, I explored various aspects of production and gradually discovered where my strengths truly lie. I realized I wanted to build a career in international film and television, particularly in creative production and distribution.

Today, I work as a freelance filmmaker based in Los Angeles. I’m developing original stories—mainly female-driven features and short films—while also producing commercial projects part-time.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Overall, I would say the road has been relatively smooth. Not everyone gets to discover their passion for an industry early on and stay committed to it—I feel lucky that I found mine and had the chance to study at a film school and start building my network in the industry from early on.

That said, the journey hasn’t been without its challenges. There were definitely moments of self-doubt, often triggered by external circumstances. For example, during the COVID era, I struggled with uncertainty about my future career path. I’ve also experienced internal conflict when balancing commercial work with personal creative projects—especially when working on something that doesn’t align with my values or artistic vision.

But over time, I’ve learned to navigate these emotional ups and downs more quickly and with more clarity.

As you know, we’re big fans of Cerefilm Entertainment. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
In March 2025, I co-founded Cerefilm Entertainment with a group of like-minded creatives, with the goal of bringing bold, creative production to the LA area. We primarily focus on commercials and music videos, and I serve as the producer within the team. Most of our core members are graduates from top-ranking film schools in the U.S., and we share a strong passion for visual storytelling and high-quality production.

As a woman, I’m deeply aware of the ways women are often marginalized across the film industry—as well as many other industries—whether through lack of representation, limited access to leadership roles, or systemic gender hierarchies. That’s why at Cerefilm, we’re committed not only to delivering outstanding work for our clients but also to collaborating with women-led brands and connecting with more female filmmakers. We hope to help amplify underrepresented voices and contribute to building a more inclusive, equitable creative community.

Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
During my time in school, I was actively involved in the university’s mentorship programs. I regularly met with my mentors to set career goals, identify my strengths, and explore ways to improve in areas where I had room to grow. These conversations helped shape my perspective and gave me a clearer sense of direction.

Beyond the school, I made a point to immerse myself in the film industry through events and community involvement. I frequently attended film festivals—not just as a guest, but also as a volunteer. Volunteering has been an incredibly valuable way to expand my network. It gave me the chance to connect with established filmmakers, while also meeting fellow emerging creatives who, like me, are just starting to carve their paths in the industry.

In fact, several of the crew members I work with today are people I met while volunteering at the Asian World Film Festival last year. That experience was not only meaningful but also laid the foundation for collaborations that continue to this day.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://cerefilmentertainment.com/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jilichen