

Today we’d like to introduce you to Calvin Chin.
Hi Calvin, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I’m an editor and filmmaker who began his creative journey in sixth grade, around 2007. The ironic story is that I was a lost, distracted 12-year old brat grounded from playing videogames for two months. That summer period was meant for me to focus on improving in math and science…but then I found free video editing software on my mom’s laptop and spent those weeks goofing off. I created these highly experimental, honestly ridiculous music videos on YouTube using random clips from action movies, anime, philosopher paintings, and Michael Jackson songs. Needless to say, my parents were shocked by my new self-taught video editing hobby…and even more confused by those videos haha.
Eventually, I transitioned into making 2-D animated shorts and live-action skits with my friends as actors. These productions were admittedly very amateur and low-budget, but somehow it was enough for a band teacher to take notice and offer me a job. In eighth grade, I edited the school’s official marching band DVD and received a more-than-welcoming-for-my-age payment of $200. That’s when I realized my love for visual storytelling could be more than just a hobby. I decided I wanted a career in filmmaking.
Nine years later, I graduated from the USC School of Cinematic Arts in 2018 and have been working the last three years at Tiny Hero, an agency that creates movie trailers for major studio clients. I also collaborate on editing or directing independent films in my spare time!
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?
Honestly, it was hardly ever a smooth road. I’m truly grateful for where I am now and the road ahead, but I would argue that my career milestones so far are mostly the result of overcoming countless rejections, failures, and shortcomings.
I think finding your passion during youth can be both a blessing and a curse. You technically get a head start and build a sense of pride in your early skill advantage and perseverance. But it’s a very lonely road, especially when no one around you values similar goals or interests.
In my case, I was born and raised in Orange County as the only creative type in a conservative Asian American family. My parents are very loving and supportive overall, but there were of course times when we disagreed over my future. Additionally, I was dealing with bullying and the passing of my grandparents throughout high school. Adolescence was just personally depressing, and I do wish I had handled my teenage years differently.
All that said, I now recognize the importance of mental health, perseverance, and surrounding myself with supportive friends and family. College was when my life really took off, and I couldn’t be more grateful for those who helped me through the rough times. I really don’t know where I’d be today without them.
Personal experiences aside, I’d like to briefly acknowledge the pandemic and pray you guys have been safe and sane the past year. Circumstances have been gradually looking up lately and I hope they continue to improve!
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I’m most known for my involvement in creating movie trailers for major studio titles such as Avengers: Endgame, The Mandalorian, Zoey’s Extraordinary Playlist, and most recently Disney & Pixar’s Soul. However, I’ve been getting back into narrative projects too!
Last year, I edited an award-winning LGBTQ drama and an Asian American musical that won 2nd place at the HBO Visionaries short film competition. You can check out Blue Suit at various film festivals and Fine China now streaming on HBO Max!
Currently, I’m working on a few secret projects at Tiny Hero, as well as an independent horror film, an anime live-action web series, and writing/directing my own sci-fi short. Eventually, I plan to transition into editing feature films or scripted television!
Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
I never really had a long-term best friend or mentor in the same field growing up, but I did have loving parents, a passionate violin teacher, and a few close friends encourage me to keep going. My mom was especially crucial in helping me overcome depression after high school. She even pushed me to apply for USC again after being rejected once and now here I am graduated from my dream film school, fully independent and working on some of the best content I’ve ever done.
I would also like to credit all my friends, coworkers & mentors at Tiny Hero, and previous colleagues in the past three years for all the memories and wisdom!
Love the work and mission of VoyageLA. Thank you for having me!
Contact Info:
- Email: calvinchin.film@gmail.com
- Website: www.calvinchin.org
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/calvincshinobi/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/CalvinCShinobi
- Other: https://vimeo.com/calvincshinobi
Image Credits:
5th and 6th photo associated with Tiny Hero & Walt Disney Studios