We had the good fortune of connecting with Daeil Kim Melanie Sudyn and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Daeil Kim, Let’s talk about principles and values – what matters to you most?
At Xylograph Films, we have several core values, each of which plays a role in shaping who we are and guides our actions.

One of our fundamental principles is leadership. Leadership goes beyond authority; it’s about inspiring and empowering others to reach their full potential. Going further, servant leadership is to serve and place those before you. This perspective of leadership fosters a culture of innovation, creativity, and excellence.

We aim to listen, guide, and support our team, ensuring that each project is driven by vision, purpose, and a collective commitment to success.

Integrity forms another cornerstone of our company culture. We place significance on maintaining honesty, transparency, and moral standards in our endeavors. Upholding integrity is important as it ensures that we earn and maintain the trust of those we work with as well as our audiences. By prioritizing integrity, not only do we build strong relationships, we also place the same responsibility on the industry as a whole.

In the world of filmmaking, communication is key to success. By fostering an environment where constructive and transparent communication can happen; collaboration, creativity, and ultimately, the quality of our films then improve.

The best results are achieved when diverse talent come together to work towards a common goal. Collaboration isn’t just about pooling resources; it’s about leveraging each other’s strengths, perspectives, and experiences to create something truly remarkable. By embracing collaboration wholeheartedly, we continually push the boundaries of creativity and storytelling in the world of filmmaking

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.
Xylograph Films is not just about filmmaking; it’s about storytelling with a purpose. Our art is a fusion of innovation, authenticity, and a unique perspective that sets us apart in the industry.

What truly distinguishes us is our ability to delve into the American/Korean life experience, weaving together narratives that explore the intricacies of both cultures. This intercultural lens allows us to craft stories that resonate deeply with audiences, bridging divides and fostering understanding.

Our journey to where we are today professionally has been anything but easy. We’ve encountered numerous rejections and heard countless “no’s,” but we’ve persevered. It’s through these challenges that we’ve learned the true value of resilience and determination.

We take immense pride in our accomplishments, from our distributed feature film to our compelling narrative short films. But what we’re most excited about is the opportunity to tell more intercultural stories—stories that celebrate diversity, challenge stereotypes, and highlight the universal human experience.

Along the way, we’ve learned invaluable lessons about the power of collaboration, the importance of staying true to our vision, and the impact of storytelling in shaping perceptions and sparking change.

We want the world to know that Xylograph Films isn’t just a production company; we’re storytellers with a mission—to make a meaningful impact through our art and to inspire audiences to see the world through a new lens.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
When hosting visitors in Los Angeles, we like to curate a diverse itinerary that caters to different interests and the season of their visit.

For those who enjoy exploring iconic landmarks we like to visit the Venice Boardwalk, Santa Monica Pier, Hollywood Sign, and Walk of Fame. For a touch of Hollywood glamour, a visit to Universal Studios or a visit to the Academy Museum offers an immersive experience.

For nature enthusiasts or those seeking a tranquil escape, a trip to the Huntington Library and Botanical Gardens is one of the best places to go to . The first Thursday’s of each month is free (but you have to order tickets in advance).

Meanwhile, exploring cultural hotspots like The Grove, The Last Bookstore, and Grand Central Market offers a glimpse into the vibrant tapestry of LA’s diverse communities.

To unwind and enjoy breathtaking coastal views, a trip to Point Dume followed by lunch at The Stonehaus or Cafe on 27. For those craving a change of scenery, a day trip to San Diego or Big Bear provides an opportunity to explore charming towns, scenic landscapes, and outdoor adventures outside of LA.

By tailoring the itinerary to the preferences and interests of our guests, we ensure a memorable and enriching experience that showcases the best of what Los Angeles and its surrounding areas have to offer.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
When we dedicated to take the plunge into the world of filmmaking and establishing Xylograph Films, our journey began in Buffalo, NY. It was there that we encountered a myriad of individuals who selflessly extended their support, guidance, and encouragement. Buffalo provided us with an environment where we could nurture our passion for filmmaking, learn from our mistakes, and grow.

What initially started as a two-person endeavor soon blossomed into larger-scale collaborations, thanks to the unwavering support of fellow filmmakers in Buffalo and our community at large.

Together, we embarked on a remarkable journey, culminating in the creation of a feature film that eventually secured distribution with Gravitas Ventures.
We owe a tremendous debt of gratitude to those who continually champion our creative endeavors, readily saying “YES” to our ideas and generously offering their time and resources. Their unwavering belief in our vision has been instrumental in propelling us forward, and it’s to these individuals—our collaborators, mentors, and supporters—that we extend our heartfelt thanks and recognition.

Website: https://www.xylographfilms.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/xylograph.films/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melanie-sudyn-755b92115/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQYs3Ehr4IL6raXYa0GnBPQ

Image Credits
Sebastien Chiu Kyle Licht Jackson Baker

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