Meet Jiarong Lu | Independent Director & Production Designer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Jiarong Lu and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Jiarong, have you ever found yourself in a spot where you had to decide whether to give up or keep going? How did you make the choice?
When faced with moments of uncertainty, I firmly believe in reflecting on the driving force behind embarking on this journey. I maintain a journal where I meticulously document my experiences as a personal practice. It’s fascinating to revisit the pages and stumble upon those captivating moments that once brought laughter to my lips. Those instances instantly transport me back to the day they occurred, allowing me to relive the emotions and experiences again. Consequently, whenever I encounter weariness or find myself questioning my path, I remind myself of the unwavering mindset that led me to choose this course and how each step I took has brought me to where I am today. For myself, I don’t think I will ever give up. filmmaking is life to me and I enjoy creating a life different from mine.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
As a passionate director and production designer with bases in both Los Angeles and Shanghai, I am fueled by an insatiable love for film production and storytelling, all while possessing a keen eye for unique discoveries. My Asian identity has kindled a profound interest in delving into Chinese and social subjects through the lens of filmmaking. During my time in Graduate school, I immersed myself in the world of production design, honing my skills and creativity. Last year, I had the incredible opportunity to collaborate as an art director on “After Sunset, Dawn Arrives,” a USC graduate work directed by the talented Andy Yi Li. The film’s success garnered Andy the prestigious jury award for BEST ASIAN AMERICAN STUDENT FILMMAKERS in the West region at the Directors Guild of America Student Award. It was an honor to work with such exceptional artists, and I was equally thrilled to see another USC thesis film, “Instant Noodle,” for which I served as the production designer, being featured at renowned film festivals like the Clermont-Ferrand International Short Film Festival.
In April of this year, I embarked on another exciting venture as the art director for “Return to Office,” a sci-fi short film produced by 1021, which delves into the intriguing relationship between technology and humanity. Working alongside a dedicated and skilled team inspired me to become more committed and professional in the industry, continually seeking opportunities to learn from others. I find immense joy in exchanging ideas with fellow creatives, sparking new insights, and collectively crafting outstanding works of art.
In a stroke of good fortune, July led me to Paris for a collaborative project, where I had the pleasure of shooting a documentary. My first time in the City of Love left me captivated by its romantic charm— the sycamores swaying in the breeze, the flower-adorned street cafes, and the crowd leisurely enjoying the Seine River’s serenity. Amidst this enchanting backdrop, I crossed paths with my documentary subject, Simon, a talented young artist in Montmartre. With a passion for playing the violin since the age of five, Simon’s musical journey has spanned 16 years. This summer, he embarked on a musical adventure, planning to play his violin on the streets of Italy and immerse himself in the country’s rich musical heritage. Documentaries hold a special allure for me as they provide a platform to connect with people, delving into their unique lives and experiences.
In summary, I embrace each opportunity to create captivating stories through film, driven by my love for the craft and my fascination with exploring diverse cultures and human experiences. Whether collaborating with talented peers or connecting with intriguing individuals, the journey of filmmaking remains an exhilarating and enriching adventure.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Oh, a week-long trip with my best friend! We would have a blast exploring the area together. Here’s an exciting itinerary to show them the best time ever:

Day 1: Arrival and Local Eats
Welcome my friend to Los Angeles and treat them to delicious local eats at a renowned food truck or a trendy restaurant serving regional delights.
Day 2: City Sightseeing and Art
Explore iconic landmarks like the Hollywood Walk of Fame, Griffith Observatory, and the Getty Center for art and breathtaking views.
Day 3: Beach Day and Water Activities
Enjoy a full day at Santa Monica Beach, soaking up the sun, swimming in the Pacific, and trying out beach activities like surfing or beach volleyball.
Day 4: Foodie Tour and Nightlife
Embark on a foodie adventure, discovering diverse flavors in neighborhoods like Koreatown or Grand Central Market.
Experience LA’s vibrant nightlife at lively bars, live music venues, or rooftop lounges.
Day 5: Culture and Entertainment
Immerse ourselves in LA’s culture by visiting the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) or catching a performance at the Walt Disney Concert Hall.
Day 6: Outdoor Adventure
Head to Runyon Canyon for a scenic hike with stunning views of the city, or explore the peaceful gardens at the Huntington Library.
Day 7: Theme Park Fun
For the grand finale, spend the day at a world-famous theme park like Universal Studios Hollywood or Disneyland.
Throughout the week, we’ll also explore charming neighborhoods, visit local markets, and savor the unique atmosphere of Los Angeles. It’ll be an unforgettable trip, packed with the best experiences that LA has to offer, and a fantastic bonding time with my best friend!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to my parents for their unwavering support in my decision to go abroad. It was a significant step for me, and our family had no prior experience in this area. Despite that, my parents wholeheartedly embraced my aspirations and provided unconditional support throughout the entire process. I feel incredibly fortunate and deeply grateful for their understanding and encouragement. I am also immensely thankful to my boyfriend, who has been a constant source of comfort, motivation, and strength during times of difficulty. His unwavering belief in me has been a driving force behind my endeavors, and I am truly grateful for his presence in my life.
I extend my appreciation to my teacher, Mark Harris, who guided me throughout my documentary thesis, “Celebration of Life.” This poignant documentary sheds light on the journey of cancer patients as they face the disease with the invaluable assistance of the Herald Cancer Association and its founder. My aim with this project was to raise awareness of the challenges Chinese cancer patients encounter when seeking treatment in the United States.
During the process, I had the pleasure of working with the incredibly enthusiastic and friendly staff at the Herald Cancer Association, particularly Lucy Young, the founder, who is a two-time breast cancer survivor. Her own experiences, along with those of other cancer patients, provided hope and encouragement to those facing the same battle. Lucy’s book, “Those Days,” which chronicles her fight against cancer, became a source of spiritual comfort and hope for others on their journey to recovery.
A special shout-out goes to my producer, Ray Zhou, cinematographer Yihuan Zhang, editor Lisa Xiao Jia Li, and the entire crew, whose invaluable contributions were instrumental in bringing this film to life. Their care, responsibility, and creativity resulted in continuous discussions and the realization of new ideas, making the film vibrant and impactful.
Without the collective effort of these incredible individuals, completing this film would have been impossible. I am truly humbled by the support and dedication I received, and I will forever cherish the memories of this remarkable journey.

Website: https://www.chrissiecreated.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chrissiejiarong/

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