Meet Surui Guo | Writer/Director/Cinematographer

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

Hi Surui, how has your work-life balance changed over time?
The concept of work-life balance, especially in the demanding and often unpredictable world of film, has been an evolving journey for me.

In the early days of my career, I found myself completely immersed in my work, often at the expense of personal time and relationships. The nature of being a director and cinematographer means that you’re not just working during the shoot; you’re living and breathing your projects through pre-production, filming, and post-production phases. Initially, this imbalance didn’t bother me; in fact, I thrived on it. I believed that to make a mark in the industry, to tell the stories I wanted to tell, I had to dedicate every waking moment to my craft.

However, over time, my perspective has shifted. I’ve come to realize that balance does not necessarily mean an equal division of hours between work and life but finding a harmony that allows for fulfillment in both. I’ve learned that taking time for myself, for my loved ones, and for experiences outside of the film industry enriches my creativity and brings a fresh perspective to my work. It’s about quality, not quantity. The times I spend away from the camera or the editing suite are just as crucial as the time spent on set. They allow me to recharge, to find inspiration in the world around me, and to bring new ideas and energy to my projects.

Thinking about balance now, I see it as a dynamic equilibrium. There are times when my work demands more from me, and I lean into it, knowing that I’ll compensate by taking a break or focusing on personal time afterward. It’s a continuous negotiation, one that requires self-awareness and listening to both my own needs and those of the people around me.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
Living and creating in Los Angeles, I’m currently diving deep into the world of film through my MFA in Film Production at the University of Southern California School of Cinematic Arts. My roots stretch back to Chengdu, China, and it’s this blend of East and West that shapes my approach to filmmaking. I’m drawn to stories that explore personal struggles and the meeting points of different cultures, aiming to highlight the shared experiences that connect us all.

What makes my work stand out is this focus on genuine, heartfelt stories. My background, bridging two very different worlds, offers a unique lens through which I view these narratives. I’m particularly proud of my ability to bring such stories to the forefront, crafting films that not only entertain but also resonate deeply with audiences on a personal level.

The journey here wasn’t straightforward. Moving from Chengdu to the U.S. brought its set of challenges, from navigating a new culture to breaking into the competitive landscape of filmmaking. It was daunting at times, but each hurdle was a lesson in disguise. These experiences taught me the value of perseverance and the importance of staying true to one’s vision, even when the path gets rocky.

Adaptability and resilience have been my greatest lessons. Understanding that the road to success is rarely linear has helped me stay focused and open to new possibilities. Moreover, I’ve learned the significance of collaboration in filmmaking. It’s through working with others that we can truly bring our visions to life.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Right after picking him up from the airport, we’d make a beeline for SunNongDan, a spot famed for its mouthwatering Korean cuisine. You can’t visit without trying their braised short ribs – they’re legendary. I’d arrange for his stay around Old Town Pasadena. It’s a charming area where he can easily wander around, discovering quaint shops and local eateries on foot.

Over the next few days, I plan to immerse him in the rich art and culture scene here, with tours of iconic museums like The Broad, The Getty, and LACMA. We won’t miss the Norton Simon Museum either; it’s a real hidden treasure. But it’s not all about indoor art; I want to take him to some of LA’s most beautiful natural and scenic spots. The Huntington Library’s gardens are a must-see, as are the serene beaches of Malibu and the panoramic views from Griffith Park.

I’m also excited to share a piece of my personal journey with him by showing him around USC and LMU, the schools where I’ve spent so many formative years.

For the last couple of days, I’m keeping our schedule open. I want to hear what he’s curious about exploring. This way, we can both discover something new, adding an element of spontaneity to our adventure. It’s the perfect opportunity to see the city through fresh eyes and maybe stumble upon some hidden gems.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?

Your refined answer could look something like this:

Throughout my journey in the film industry, I’ve come to deeply appreciate a fundamental truth: filmmaking is the epitome of collaborative artistry. No film, regardless of its scale, is the outcome of a solitary effort. It emerges from a symphony of creativity, hard work, and dedication, played by a diverse ensemble of individuals. Each person contributes their unique skills and visions, enriching the project beyond measure. With this in mind, I want to extend my heartfelt shoutout to every collaborator who has journeyed alongside me in this creative endeavor.

I’ve had the privilege of working with some of the most passionate, dedicated, and inventive individuals in the industry. Jessu Yu, my long-time production design collaborator, has been instrumental in elevating my ideas, infusing them with artistic vision and meticulous attention to detail. Our adventures through deserts and abandoned buildings in search of unique locations have been nothing short of inspirational.

Yuchan Deng, who shot most of my films, had an exceptional talent for uncovering unexpected angles and blocking that perfectly capture the emotional essence of a scene. Her perspective as a cinematographer has been invaluable to my storytelling.

Coleman Weimer, a director known for his ability to maintain a relaxed atmosphere on set, has been a constant source of support. Working with him as the cinematographer, I’ve learned the power of facing production emergencies with a positive attitude, turning potential obstacles into opportunities.

While these individuals have left a significant mark on my work, they represent just a fraction of the many talents I’ve had the honor to collaborate with. Each project has been a collective effort, with every contributor playing a crucial role in my evolution as a filmmaker. Though I cannot name everyone here, their contributions are deeply appreciated and forever ingrained in my creative journey.

Website: suruiguo.com

Instagram: surui_guo