Meet Nicholas Tjen | Film Director & Editor

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

Hi Nicholas, why did you pursue a creative career?
I pursued an artistic and creative career because it’s what I truly love. Since childhood, I’ve been drawn to various forms of art—drawing, photography, music—but film stood out as more than just a passion. It became a powerful way for me to express my emotions, share the values that matter to me, and make a positive impact.

More than just storytelling, film is a medium that allows me to share life experiences—both my own and those that others might relate to. It has the ability to capture emotions, struggles, and moments that people may have lived through, helping them feel seen and understood. My goal is to create films that resonate, inspire, and leave a lasting impression—sparking change, fostering connection, and enriching the lives of those who experience my work.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
What sets me apart from others is my deep passion for telling authentic, meaningful stories that reflect my unique experiences and perspectives. I’m most excited about my short film Glodok ’98, which I wrote and directed. It’s a deeply personal project that tells the story of Chinese-Indonesians during the May 1998 riots in Indonesia—a history that is often overlooked but incredibly important to me.

Getting to where I am today professionally has been a challenging but fulfilling journey. It wasn’t easy. Glodok ’98 was selected as one of four Senior Thesis projects at California State University, Northridge’s film production program, which meant competing with some of the most talented and creative students in the field. The process of bringing this project to life came with many obstacles: securing funding, finding the right talent, and creating an authentic Indonesian atmosphere. I had to learn quickly that success was all about collaboration and surrounding myself with a talented team who was just as dedicated to the project as I was. The strength of the team is what got me through those tough times, and their support has been invaluable.

Through these challenges, I learned the importance of clear communication, patience, and adaptability. I also realized that mistakes are a necessary part of growth—not only for myself but for everyone involved. It’s essential to create an environment where others feel empowered to learn from their missteps. Most importantly, I’ve learned that as a leader, it’s crucial to stay compassionate and set an example for others to follow.

What I want the world to know about me and my brand is that I am driven by a desire to inspire. Through my work, I want to tell stories that have the power to spark change and leave a lasting impact. Whether it’s through the challenges faced in Glodok ’98 or any future project, I want people to see that even in the face of adversity, there is always room for growth, transformation, and hope.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I love traveling, especially when it comes to showing people around Los Angeles and sharing everything this incredible city has to offer. If I were hosting someone for a week-long trip, I would make sure they experience the best of LA—from exciting attractions and breathtaking views to amazing food and hidden gems.

On the first day, we would kick things off with a full day at Universal Studios Hollywood, where we could explore the thrilling rides, catch live shows, and immerse ourselves in the magic of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. It’s the perfect way to start the trip with an exciting, movie-themed adventure.

On the second day, we would take in some of LA’s most stunning city views. We would start the morning by hiking up to Griffith Observatory, where we could enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view of Los Angeles and get a close look at the Hollywood Sign. After that, we would take a scenic drive along Mulholland Drive, stopping at various overlooks to admire the city from different perspectives, especially as the sun begins to set.

The third day would be a mix of relaxation and exploration. We would begin the day at Echo Park, where we could rent swan boats and enjoy the peaceful lake surrounded by palm trees. From there, we would head to The Grove, one of LA’s most vibrant shopping and entertainment spots, where we could browse stores, check out the lively farmer’s market, and maybe even catch a live performance or an outdoor movie if the timing is right.

On the fourth day, we would visit Little Tokyo, one of my favorite cultural spots in LA. We’d explore the unique shops, enjoy authentic Japanese food, and visit the Japanese American National Museum to learn more about the history and heritage of Japanese Americans in Los Angeles. Afterward, we could grab some delicious mochi or Japanese pastries from one of the local bakeries before strolling through the lively district.

For the fifth day, we would embrace the classic LA beach experience by heading to Santa Monica Pier. We would take a stroll along the boardwalk, ride the famous Ferris wheel, and enjoy the fresh ocean breeze. If we had time, we could rent bikes and ride along the coast to Venice Beach, taking in the lively atmosphere and colorful street performances.

The sixth day would be dedicated to LA’s incredible food scene. We would start by indulging in an All-You-Can-Eat Sushi & BBQ feast in Koreatown, trying everything from premium meats to fresh sushi. Afterward, we would stop by Xing Fu Tang to grab the best boba ever, a must-have treat for any visitor.

On the seventh day, we would slow things down and enjoy an amazing hotpot meal at Joon Shabu Shabu, where we could take our time cooking and savoring the delicious flavors. After our meal, we could explore some nearby areas or simply relax and reflect on the trip so far.

For the final day, we would leave things open-ended, allowing for a “choose your own adventure” experience. Whether it’s revisiting a favorite spot, discovering a new hidden gem, or taking one last scenic drive, we would make sure to end the trip on a memorable note.

I truly love introducing people to Los Angeles because it’s a city full of diverse experiences, rich culture, and endless things to explore. This itinerary blends excitement, relaxation, and unforgettable dining experiences, making it the perfect way to explore the best of LA!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I’d love to dedicate my shoutout to the incredible people who have shaped my journey and supported me every step of the way.

First and foremost, my parents. I wouldn’t be where I am today without their unwavering support and dedication. Their life experiences have been a major inspiration in my filmmaking and my pursuit of my goals. My dad’s story, in particular, has always motivated me—growing up in a poor village, he worked tirelessly to lift his parents and siblings out of poverty. He taught me that life isn’t easy, but with enough dedication, passion, and hard work, I can achieve my ultimate goals.

My siblings, Nathanael Tjen and Angelia Tjen, have also been my rock. As the second child out of three, I’ve always had their unwavering support. They’ve believed in me since day one, offering encouragement, trust, and a helping hand through my lowest moments. Their presence in my life means everything.

I also want to express my gratitude to my film professor at Los Angeles Mission College, John Wynn. He played a huge role in helping me build confidence in my filmmaking journey. His career advice and personal experiences in the industry have been invaluable, inspiring me to keep pushing forward and pursue my passion fearlessly.

To my friends, especially my Indonesian friends, thank you for always supporting me. A special shoutout to my best friend and producer for my film project Glodok ‘98, Desmond Qi Hong Loh. Your belief in me and my vision has meant so much, and I couldn’t have done it without you.

And above all, my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. He has been with me through my highest moments and my lowest struggles, guiding me, strengthening me, and reminding me that I am never alone. His presence in my life is my greatest source of hope and purpose.

To all of you—thank you. Your support, love, and encouragement have shaped me into the person and filmmaker I am today.

Website: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm14828501/

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

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicholas-tjen

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@Nicholastjen

Image Credits
Photographer Credit: Andre Hurtado Ramirez