Meet WenChun Catherine” Cheng | Film Producer and Director”

We had the good fortune of connecting with WenChun “Catherine” Cheng and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi WenChun “Catherine”, we’d love to hear about how you approach risk and risk-taking
In my approach to risk-taking, I embrace proactive problem-solving, adaptability, collaboration, quick decision-making, and resourcefulness, drawing from my extensive experience in the film industry. These principles have consistently guided me in effectively managing risks throughout my career.

For example, during the production of Realme Short Films, I undertook responsibilities such as hiring crews, coordinating with vendors, and ensuring a seamless production process. This experience showcased my proactive mindset when faced with unexpected challenges.

Furthermore, my adaptability became evident when I managed a team of approximately 80 individuals during a shoot set in a high school. Being able to adjust plans and ensure smooth operations in the midst of a dynamic and large-scale production illustrated my ability to thrive under changing circumstances.

Collaboration and coordination are cornerstones of my risk management strategy. In the context of the ROK commercial, a series of setbacks including a lead actor’s withdrawal and location issues arose. Despite these challenges, I fostered inter-departmental cooperation to guarantee that crucial footage was captured within tight time constraints, showcasing my commitment to a collective approach in tackling adversity.

Quick decision-making remains a central aspect of my risk management approach. When confronted with issues such as power outages and equipment glitches, my ability to make prompt and well-informed choices has been instrumental in maintaining the smooth progression of filming.

My resourcefulness is evident in my ability to find inventive solutions to unforeseen problems. During the ROK commercial shoot, I adeptly adjusted plans when the lead actress got sick on the shooting day, promptly implementing alternatives to ensure the project’s continuity. This capacity to think creatively and provide effective alternatives has consistently aided me in surmounting challenges.

Overall, my approach to risk-taking has significantly contributed to my track record of achieving successful outcomes across various film projects. By consistently applying proactive problem-solving, adaptability, collaboration, quick decision-making, and resourcefulness, I’ve demonstrated my capacity to navigate challenges and consistently deliver high-quality results, even in the face of unforeseen limitations.

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.
Originating from Taipei, Taiwan, my filmmaking ethos is marked by versatility and an eagerness to explore diverse genres and styles. This openness is largely inspired by the remarkable director Damien Chazelle, who adeptly melds various elements to craft captivating narratives. My proficiencies encompass meticulous research, collaborative prowess, and coherent communication with my team.

A pivotal juncture in my career unfolded when I relocated to Los Angeles, collaborating with prestigious production entities like Summery Production, China Television, Disney, and Cannes Festival, among others. Immersing myself in the industry allowed me to glean insights from seasoned professionals, broadening my skill repertoire and acquainting me with novel techniques.

This journey underscored the imperative of streamlined communication, particularly with sizable crews. The significance of articulating our vision, delegating tasks, and ensuring alignment became apparent. This honed my leadership acumen, refining my ability to deliver succinct and assured directives.

As a director, my aspiration is to create films that resonate deeply, serving as conduits for conversations and connections. Storytelling, in my view, is an art form, and continuous honing of this craft allows me to create narratives that leave an indelible mark. My commitment extends to fostering an environment of open dialogue within my team, recognizing collaboration as the bedrock of remarkable filmmaking.

Above all, my directorial pursuits are driven by the desire to catalyze positive change through impactful storytelling. Whether by illuminating societal quandaries or offering entertainment, my mission is to craft films that influence lives positively. A dedication to perpetual learning, effective communication, and the pursuit of compelling narratives anchors my journey.

Moreover, my experience as a Producer, notably in projects like Realme Short Films and ROK commercials, has bolstered my skill set and comprehension of the filmmaking process. During Realme Short Films, my responsibilities ranged from crew selection to seamless coordination with vendors, necessitating meticulous organization and seamless teamwork. My involvement in the ROK commercial exposed me to unforeseen challenges, prompting rapid problem-solving. Navigating scenarios such as lead actor changes, location intricacies, and unanticipated incidents like an unfit greenscreen underscored my adaptability and resourcefulness. These producer experiences have equipped me to maneuver complexities, maintain composure amid pressure, and achieve successful outcomes in dynamic, ever-evolving production environments.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my best friend were visiting the area for a week, I’d craft an itinerary that reflects the vibrant and diverse experiences my city has to offer. Rather than sticking to the most famous spots, I’d take them on a journey to discover the authentic essence of the place and some hidden gems. My plans would be influenced by their preferences, ensuring they have a memorable and tailored experience. Take my friend Christy who visited recently as an example.

Begin the day with breakfast at “Cafe on 27” in Malibu, known for its serene ambiance and delightful offerings.
Take a morning stroll at El Matador Beach to experience Malibu’s coastal beauty.
Drive to Griffith Park for a scenic hike in the Hollywood Hills, taking in panoramic views and the iconic Hollywood Sign.
Have a picnic lunch amidst the natural beauty of Griffith Park.
Spend the afternoon at the Huntington Library, Art Collections, and Botanical Gardens, exploring the diverse gardens and art exhibits.
Wrap up the day with a Taiwanese dinner at “Pine and Crane” a favorite spot for authentic dishes. This choice is perfect sincewe’re both Taiwanese.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Yes,

Summer XinLei Yang
Melody Sui
Gev Miron

Website: https://www.wenchunchengfilm.com

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

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wenchun-cheng/