We had the good fortune of connecting with Suki “Shuqi” Li and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Suki “Shuqi”, why did you pursue a creative career?
I pursued a creative career as a film producer because it was a path that called to me with unwavering clarity. My journey into this profession began during my childhood when I had the privilege of watching European films with my father. Those cinematic experiences left an indelible mark on my imagination. I was spellbound by the vast and captivating landscapes of Europe, which felt like an entirely different world compared to my humble hometown. As I grew older, my creative inclinations evolved, and I developed a keen interest in literature. I immersed myself in novels and began crafting my own stories. To my astonishment, some of my stories were published in local newspapers and magazines. The recognition I received from my community for my written work was both validating and motivating. It was during this phase that I made a pivotal decision to pursue a career as a storyteller.

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.
I take great pride in my role as a producer, and one aspect of my work that sets me apart is my skill in providing valuable story notes. While producers are not always traditionally seen as creative contributors to the writing process, I believe that their insights can greatly enhance a project. It’s true that many producers’ notes are sometimes overlooked or not taken seriously in the industry, but I’ve been fortunate to bridge the gap between creative storytelling and the production process.

My journey to where I am today professionally has been both challenging and rewarding. It hasn’t always been easy, as breaking into the film industry can be quite competitive. However, I overcame these challenges by leveraging my writing experience and my ability to connect with people. I believe in creating a comfortable and open environment for communication, especially when discussing a script with a writer. By understanding the writer’s perspective and motivations behind the story, I can provide insightful and constructive notes that align with the project’s vision.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
We’d start with iconic attractions like Disneyland and Universal Studios, immersing ourselves in magic and movie wonders. We’d also explore the city’s cultural side, visiting the Getty Center, LACMA, and enjoying a day at Santa Monica Beach. A culinary adventure in the diverse San Gabriel Valley, complete with a visit to 3cat cafe for the best milk tea, would be a highlight. Our Hollywood Hills hike, Griffith Observatory visit, and strolls along the Walk of Fame would capture the essence of LA. The trip would culminate with a farewell dinner at a rooftop restaurant, offering stunning city views.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I’d like to dedicate my shoutout to my parents. They are both entrepreneurs and engineers, with a deep passion for their own fields. While they may not always have the time to watch films or fully understand the intricacies of film production, their unwavering support has been a cornerstone of my journey. They have celebrated my successes with boundless enthusiasm, and their encouragement has been a constant source of motivation in pursuing my creative career. Their belief in me is a testament to the power of family support in one’s pursuit of their dreams.

Website: https://pro.imdb.com/name/nm12841117?s=62c53713-7697-4b06-cee2-33eb8bf63773&site_preference=normal

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

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