Today we’d like to introduce you to Jiawen Han.
Hi Jiawen, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I am an independent screenwriter/director based in Los Angeles. I recently completed my MFA Degree in Narrative Directing at UCLA’s prestigious graduate film school.
Prior to attending UCLA, I worked as an independent director in Shanghai for three years, creating TV commercials and short series. This experience instilled in me independence and responsibility, invaluable traits in the film and TV industry.
My decision to transition from the commercial industry to film and television was driven by a deep desire to tell meaningful stories for my community and to amplify women’s voices through cinema.
During my time at UCLA, I was honored with significant awards, such as the Motion Picture Association of America Award, the Joel Siegel Fellowship, and the Francesco Film Production Fund. These scholarships were not just accolades but invaluable resources that allowed me to develop my previous films, shaping my artistic vision and storytelling abilities.
Now, I’m eager to craft compelling narratives that resonate with audiences and give voice to unheard stories.
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?
For Asian female filmmakers like me, breaking into the film and television industry in the US has been exceptionally challenging. The film and television market, like many others, has long been dominated by particular narratives, sidelining voices from diverse backgrounds.
This lack of representation not only limits the stories we can tell but also perpetuates harmful stereotypes about Asian communities.
As a screenwriter and director, I firmly believe in the power of storytelling to break barriers, foster understanding, and delve into the universal human experience. Yet, when opportunities are restricted based on gender and ethnicity, the potential for nuanced and authentic storytelling is stifled.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I am deeply passionate about crafting narratives that delve into the intricacies of women’s lives. In my films, I consistently explore themes essential to women – our identity, struggles, desires, wisdom, and freedom. Through my films, my commitment is to challenge the pervasive gender biases ingrained in our society.
My recent short films, “SUMMER RAIN” and “THE GUEST,” epitomize this dedication to telling compelling female-driven stories. “Summer Rain” delves into the challenges of postpartum depression, breaking societal norms that confine women to predefined roles as flawless caregivers.
“The Guest” portrays the dynamics between a mother and daughter, unraveling the complexities of their relationship during a stormy reunion at the daughter’s wedding. Beginning on a joyful note, the film explores emotional intricacies and unresolved wounds.
I am immensely proud of my job as a filmmaker. Through my storytelling, I strive to empower women, encouraging us to embrace our identities unapologetically and stand tall in a society that often seeks to confine us within predefined boundaries.
Do you have any advice for those just starting out?
Embrace Criticism and Stay Passionate.
Constructive feedback is like gold in this industry; it’s the key to your growth. Learn from it, and let it shape your skills.
Stay passionate about storytelling. Filmmaking is a rollercoaster, filled with challenges and triumphs. It’s your passion that will keep you going, especially when times get tough.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.jiawenh.com/
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/jiawen_han_?igshid=NzZlODBkYWE4Ng%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jiawen.han.378?mibextid=LQQJ4d
