Meet Dalton Zongshian Lu | Director/Producer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Dalton Zongshian Lu and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Dalton Zongshian, have there been any changes in how you think about work-life balance?
My journey toward achieving work-life balance has been profoundly personal and transformative. In the early days, my passion for film led me to an intense work ethic—I thrived on the energy of endless nights crafting stories and managing productions. This boundless enthusiasm characterized my initial years as a director and producer. However, the birth of my kid shifted my perspective profoundly. I realized that the moments I spend with my family fuel my happiness and my creative energy. Balancing my career and home life has become a dance of priorities, where each influences and enhances the other. I’ve learned that a well-lived life enriches my art, adding depth and authenticity to my storytelling.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My filmmaking journey has taken me around the world, including Taiwan, Japan, China, and the United States, where I’ve honed my craft for over a decade. This global experience has been pivotal in shaping my approach to storytelling, allowing me to create content that resonates with a diverse international audience. My unwavering commitment to representing underrepresented voices and narratives sets my work apart. I focus on stories that highlight the experiences of minorities, ensuring these perspectives are both seen and heard. This dedication diversifies the cinematic landscape and fosters empathy and understanding across cultures.
I take pride in merging artistic vision with social advocacy, producing films that challenge viewers to engage with complex human emotions and societal issues. Each project is an opportunity to promote inclusivity and empathy, driving conversations that can lead to real-world impact.
As I continue my career, my aim is to push creative boundaries further, exploring new themes that address social justice and equality. You can find more details about my work and the impact it aims to achieve on my professional website.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
During a week with a visiting friend in Los Angeles, I’d share a mix of my personal favorites that highlight my love for art, culture, and the community. We’d kick off with a culinary experience at Surawon, my favorite Korean restaurant known for its authentic dishes and innovative flavors. This would set the stage for exploring the vibrant food scene in LA. Next, we’d delve into the city’s rich artistic offerings with a visit to the Getty Villa, where we could immerse ourselves in ancient arts and serene gardens—a place that greatly inspires my creative work. Following the cultural enrichment, we’d escape to a quiet beach nearby, offering a tranquil retreat to reflect and unwind, emphasizing the balance I cherish between bustling city life and peaceful nature.
The week would also include a private tour of a local film studio, giving us a behind-the-scenes look at the filmmaking process and connecting my professional passion with personal experiences. In neighborhoods like Silver Lake, we’d engage with local art and independent cinema, rounding out a culturally rich and personally meaningful visit.
This itinerary seamlessly blends my personal interests and professional inspirations, reflecting a deep connection to Los Angeles through both community-oriented activities and intimate personal spaces. It showcases my unique perspective as someone who values both the artistic and humanitarian aspects of life in this dynamic city.

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?
One pivotal source of inspiration and encouragement in my journey has been Paulo Coelho’s seminal book, “The Alchemist.” With its profound message that “when you want something, all the universe conspires in helping you to achieve it,” this book has been a guiding light in my filmmaking career. Its philosophy resonated with me at a critical time, reinforcing my determination to pursue my passion despite the challenges. The journey of the protagonist, Santiago, mirrors my own in many ways. Just as Santiago embarks on a quest to discover his “Personal Legend,” I have navigated the complexities of the film industry, driven by a deep-seated belief in my own creative dreams. “The Alchemist” encouraged me to listen to the omens along my path and reinforced the value of perseverance and faith in one’s journey.
This book not only motivated me personally but also inspired me to create films that empower others to follow their dreams. I hope that by sharing this story, I can encourage others in the film community and beyond to believe in the possibility of their aspirations, just as I have. Through my work, I aim to pass on the courage and hope that “The Alchemist” instilled in me, aspiring to create a ripple effect of inspiration and determination across the global tapestry of storytellers.

Website: daltonlu.com

Instagram: zongshianlu