Today we’d like to introduce you to Max Huang.
Hi Max, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I was born and raised in Beijing, China, and due to family members working in the entertainment and film industry, I am not unfamiliar with this field. Fortunately, I was admitted to the Film Production major at the Beijing Film Academy during my undergraduate studies. My university education exposed me to various aspects of filmmaking, allowing me to explore my interests. I tried different courses, such as production, editing, and cinematography, which played a crucial role in shaping my skills for future development. After graduation, I became an editor, working on editing promotional films and behind-the-scenes documentaries for movies. Initially, I enjoyed this job, but later, the increasingly formulaic nature of the work left me uncertain about my future. I wasn’t sure if this was the career path I wanted to pursue indefinitely. So, I chose to study abroad, and now I am a student in the MFA program in Film Production at USC. I am expected to graduate later this year.
We all face challenges, but looking back, would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
“I have to say, I’ve been very fortunate along the way. I’ve met many friends and professors who have accelerated my growth with their own experiences. But challenges still exist, and the collision of cultures and language issues are more serious than I imagined. If I can express my thoughts 100% in Chinese, then maybe I can only express 70% in English. It’s a difficult process, but I believe with time and practice, this issue will be resolved. At the same time, Los Angeles has too many talented young people, which has given me an unprecedented sense of crisis, and I aspire to be as excellent as them. Their presence also inspires my growth, making me work even harder.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I am primarily involved in editing work right now, and arranging materials feels like magic to me. The same footage can yield entirely different stories. Editing, for me, is a game of rhythm, amplifying all emotions through various materials. Sometimes, in situations where the footage is limited, I have to extract the segments I need from what might be considered ‘discarded’ material. Editors are the first audience; maintaining objectivity and preserving the initial emotional impressions and reactions to the materials are particularly important.
Currently, I am still learning and trying my hand at various aspects of filmmaking, such as the camera and lighting departments. I believe filmmaking is a holistic process. Working with some exceptionally talented individuals has given me a different perspective on the filmmaking process. I believe that working in many other departments will benefit my ability to tell stories.
We all have a different way of looking at and defining success. How do you define success?
The definition of success is incredibly complex. However, it could be as simple as being able to do what you love and persisting in it. I believe that fame and awe-inspiring works are merely “rewards” that we cannot control. So, if I love filmmaking, having the opportunity to continuously work in the film industry and sustain myself would be success to me.
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