Today we’d like to introduce you to YI (Historia) WANG.
Hi YI (Historia), can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I’m a film producer and director originally from Shanghai, now actively based in Los Angeles with occasional projects in New York. Growing up in Shanghai, a city rich in culture and diversity, profoundly influenced my early life and artistic creations. From a young age, I developed a deep love for anime and movies, which not only sparked my imagination but also shaped my understanding and passion for storytelling through visuals.
I chose the name “Historia” because it encapsulates the very essence of filmmaking—storytelling and narrative. In Latin, “historia” translates to “story” or “narrative,” aligning perfectly with what filmmakers strive to create: compelling and meaningful stories brought to life through visual media like film. For me, “Historia” signifies a profound connection to the art of storytelling, emphasizing my role as a filmmaker in crafting narratives that resonate deeply with audiences worldwide. This name reflects my commitment to capturing human experiences and emotions through the powerful medium of cinema.
Interestingly, “Historia” was initially the name of the female lead in my first live-action short film, a project that holds significant importance for me. Later, I decided to adopt this name as my own pseudonym, symbolizing my starting point in the film industry and my enduring passion for storytelling. Whenever audiences see this name, I hope they feel the strong narrative power and emotional resonance that I experienced during the creative process.
During my undergraduate studies at the Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, I successfully organized two Luminar Film Festivals at campus. These experiences not only honed my organizational and coordination skills but also provided me with a deeper understanding of the film industry’s operational dynamics. Following this, I completed a master’s degree in directing at the School of Visual Arts, New York. The blend of academic and practical experiences helped me deepen my understanding of film language and narrative structure, gradually shaping my visual style and directorial approach.
I bring with me four years of immersion in the art of developing and shooting film projects, a journey that began during my undergraduate and graduate studies. Through these formative years, I have passionately contributed to the creation of numerous short films, each a labor of love and creativity. My works have resonated deeply, gracing the screens of nearly a hundred esteemed film festivals worldwide.
My works have been selected for inclusion in nearly a hundred esteemed film festivals worldwide. Among these, “The Perfect Smile,” a stop-motion creation I directed, produced, shot, and edited in Shenzhen, China, was shortlisted at the Palm Springs International Film Festival and the Beijing Film Festival in 2022. Another film, “Brave if,” which I directed and produced in Shanghai, China, achieved finalist status at the Oniros Film Awards in 2022 and received an honorable mention at the SWIFF Film Festival in 2023. Additionally, I directed and produced “Smoothie,” a witty production shot in New York, USA, which won the Best Comedy award in 2024 at the International Film & Script Festival Lotus.
Last year, I produced “Baphomet” for Paradox Films, which is now in post-production with the trailer set to release soon. This short film crew was my favorite and the most healing experience I had in New York and Pennsylvania in 2023. Filming “Baphomet” after flying back to New York from Los Angeles, I found the cast and crew to be incredibly harmonious and caring, creating a pleasant and supportive atmosphere.
I also produced “Before Firework,” where I not only coordinated and organized the project but also ensured the dietary needs of every participant were met. This included accommodating various dietary restrictions such as vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and allergy-specific requirements, making sure everyone had meals that were both safe and enjoyable. My efforts helped the team feel supported and valued during the long shooting days.
This year in recent months, I served as the Line Producer and Production Manager for the AFI thesis “In the Mood.” The core team, including the director, producer, director of photography, and editor, are all women, showcasing the power of female collaboration. Initially invited as the UPM by producer Yang Qian in August 2023, I was promoted to Line Producer in April 2024 due to my effective management of logistics and demonstrated capabilities.
Furthermore, I worked on “The Gray Dwarf Stars,” also produced by Paradox Films, taking on dual roles as Producer and Assistant Director. The first phase of shooting was from June 28 to July 1, and the second phase was from July 12 to July 14. I flew from Los Angeles to New York at the end of June to shoot the film. Although it was originally planned to start filming last summer, the project faced some delays and began this summer. However, the first phase of shooting was highly efficient, with the crew wrapping up each day ahead of schedule. The filming locations included The Bronx, Manhattan, Brooklyn, and New Jersey.
The diversity and cultural richness of Shanghai and Shenzhen have profoundly influenced my artistic journey, while working in Los Angeles and New York has broadened my creative horizons. Collaborating with filmmakers from diverse backgrounds has enriched my work, making it more internationally appealing. My mission is to create films that resonate deeply with audiences, portraying the profound and timeless aspects of human experience through storytelling that touches the heart and soul.
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?
My journey in the film industry has certainly not been a smooth road. Here are some of the significant struggles I have faced along the way:
1. Starting Later in the Industry:
One of the primary challenges was starting later in the industry without a related undergraduate degree. To overcome this, I immersed myself in extensive practical experience on film sets. Through hands-on work, I quickly honed my skills, deepened my understanding of production dynamics, managed logistics, and forged strong collaborative relationships. This experience was invaluable in building a solid foundation for my career.
2. Overcoming Skepticism Due to Youthful Appearance:
Another significant challenge was overcoming skepticism due to my youthful appearance. This often led to doubts about my capabilities and experience within the industry. To address this, I had to work diligently to demonstrate my skills and dedication on every project, proving my competence through tangible results. This skepticism fueled my determination to consistently deliver high-quality work and establish my credibility.
3. Competitive Landscape:
The competitive nature of the film industry presents ongoing challenges. Securing funding, managing creative differences, and balancing artistic vision with practical constraints require continuous effort and strategic decision-making. Navigating these complexities is essential to the success of any project.
4. Project Uncertainty:
I have encountered instances where projects come to an abrupt end. However, I strive to ensure that the films I primarily oversee do not meet such a fate. Despite these obstacles, each challenge has been a pivotal learning experience that has strengthened my resolve and provided me with invaluable insights.
5. Navigating the Industry:
Additionally, navigating an industry with a diverse mix of individuals of varying integrity presents its own set of challenges. Building and maintaining trustworthy relationships is crucial in this environment.
Despite these obstacles, each challenge has been a valuable learning experience, reinforcing my commitment to creating impactful and resonant narratives through film. These experiences have not only shaped my professional journey but also underscored my dedication to the art of filmmaking.
Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about ReelRoots?
Besides my filmmaking endeavors, I have also ventured into innovation with ReelRoots, the world’s first product placement exchange for indie filmmakers. This platform is designed to empower independent filmmakers by providing them with opportunities to secure product placements, traditionally only accessible to large, studio-backed productions with substantial budgets.
In the past, product placement arrangements often involved hefty contracts worth millions of dollars, making it virtually inaccessible for smaller businesses and underfunded filmmakers. ReelRoots disrupts this norm by offering a more accessible and equitable approach. It allows small businesses, such as a local artisanal soda maker, to compete on a level playing field alongside industry giants like Coca-Cola or Pepsi. Similarly, independent filmmakers can now benefit from partnerships with brands that align with their creative vision, without financial barriers hindering their projects.
What sets ReelRoots apart is its mission to democratize product placement in the film industry. By facilitating these exchanges, we enable filmmakers to maintain creative freedom and integrity while enhancing their productions with authentic, meaningful brand integrations. This not only supports the filmmakers’ artistic vision but also creates mutually beneficial partnerships that elevate both the film and the brand.
I take pride in ReelRoots as a pioneering initiative that bridges the gap between independent filmmakers and brands. It’s not just about financial support but also about fostering innovation and collaboration within the filmmaking community. Our goal is to empower filmmakers to tell their stories authentically while offering brands an effective platform to reach diverse audiences through the power of cinema.
I want readers to know that ReelRoots represents a new era of opportunity for independent filmmakers worldwide. It embodies innovation, inclusivity, and the spirit of entrepreneurship in the film industry. Whether you’re a filmmaker looking to enhance your project with strategic brand partnerships or a brand seeking authentic storytelling opportunities, ReelRoots is here to facilitate meaningful connections and elevate the art of filmmaking.
FunFact：
ReelRoots is actually named by my closest friend Yun (Rita) Yang, whom I affectionately call YY. She graduated from Yale in May 2024 and invited me to attend her graduation ceremony in New Haven. Despite our different personalities—I’m an ENFP and she’s an ISTJ—it’s remarkable how comfortable our friendship is. YY consistently respects me within our friendship, something that is often overlooked among friends. She is the person with the highest empathy and emotional intelligence I’ve ever encountered. The name ReelRoots symbolizes my belief in the foundational roots of storytelling in cinema, echoing YY’s influence in fostering understanding and comfort. It reflects my commitment to empowering independent filmmakers through innovative solutions.
We’d love to hear about any fond memories you have from when you were growing up?
One of my most cherished childhood memories revolves around a meticulously arranged family trip to Sanya during my elementary school years, orchestrated by my father. Accompanied by my parents and my older cousin, who, despite the 6-year age gap between us, was both mature and childlike, taking good care of me. We spent delightful days exploring the pristine beaches and enjoying each other’s company in the warm Sanya sun. The experience left a lasting impression of carefree joy and familial closeness, untouched by the complexities of adulthood.
During that time, I didn’t wear glasses, my skin was clear, and I felt confident and radiant. My father was brimming with confidence; my mother had yet to bear life’s burdens almost alone, and neither had yet faced life’s formidable challenges. It was a period of innocent exploration and boundless joy, where each moment shimmered with untapped possibilities. This memory remains etched in my heart for its profound impact and serene beauty.
The hotel my father chose became a haven of comfort and elegance. Its pristine beach, which I discovered to be the cleanest among the surrounding shores, featured soft sands and gentle waves that provided an idyllic setting for building intricate sandcastles and reveling in the crystal-clear waters. The luxurious accommodations elevated our sense of relaxation and indulgence, leaving an indelible mark on our memories.
The food we enjoyed was exceptionally delicious, with some dishes even delightfully new and exotic. However, it was the evenings that truly enchanted us. As the sun dipped below the horizon, painting the sky in hues of crimson and gold, we would build intricate sandcastles on the shore, sharing moments of quiet awe and gratitude. These serene evenings, steeped in the warmth of familial love, remain among the most cherished and tranquil of my childhood.
In essence, our journey to Sanya embodies everything I hold dear about those early years—innocence, boundless joy, and the profound bonds of family. It stands as a testament to the simplicity and beauty that shaped my childhood, a memory I treasure deeply to this day.
For the sake of recreating the beautiful memories of my childhood, I am determined to work even harder. Those days in Sanya taught me the importance of cherishing moments of innocence and joy, surrounded by loved ones. I strive to embody that same spirit of exploration and wonder in my life today, seeking out new experiences and embracing challenges with enthusiasm. By channeling the lessons learned from those carefree days, I aim to create a future filled with meaningful connections, memorable adventures, and a deep sense of fulfillment.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://bigcarrotfilmhistoriayi.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/historiayi?igsh=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
- Other: https://reelroots.ai/
Image Credit:
Photo 123 Film Project In the Mood BTS by Roger Lin
