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

Hi EJ, we’d love to hear about how you approach risk and risk-taking
Absolutely! Taking risks, especially in the realm of filmmaking, is an inherent part of the process. Every choice, from the storyline to the cast to the style of cinematography, comes with its set of uncertainties. The looming question is always there: Will the audience resonate with my vision? Can I bring together a harmonious team dynamic? Will external factors derail my project? Yet, despite these uncertainties, risk also signifies the uncharted, the unknown, and the potential to traverse boundaries to birth something innovative.

In my perspective, risks are not just challenges, they’re opportunities. Opportunities to evolve, to defy norms, and to leave an indelible mark. Playing it safe, especially in a field as expressive as filmmaking, can often confine creativity. It’s in the moments when we dare to venture outside our comfort zones, question established conventions, and embrace vulnerability, that genuine creativity thrives. The beauty of filmmaking is that it’s a dance between calculated choices and embracing the unforeseen, letting both guide the narrative forward.

While risks carry the potential for setbacks, they also pave the path for those serendipitous moments—those instances of pure cinematic magic that can only arise when we permit ourselves the freedom to explore without constraints. Every renowned filmmaker or cinematic masterpiece has, at its core, a tale of risks taken and boundaries pushed.

For me, risk is not something to shy away from but to engage with. It’s a companion in my filmmaking journey—one that has taught me resilience, adaptability, and the sheer joy of discovery. Embracing risks has been instrumental in shaping my career, teaching me not just about the world of cinema, but also about life and my place within it.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I am most proud of the people I grew close with on my path to filmmaking. People excite me. People are always essential to my stories. They inspire me and help me and are the reasons behind my hard work and dedication. I have always been passionate about art, and I have been willing to put in the time and effort to learn and grow as an artist. I have also been fortunate to have the support of my family and friends, who have always encouraged me to pursue my dreams. Just like everyone else’s story, it wasn’t easy. And unlike everyone else’s story, hopefully——I wasn’t born into a family that valued art and creativity. Both my parents worked 9-to-5 jobs assorting documents for the local government. I am always very thankful for their love and sacrifice for me. With that being said, I had only been drawn to the beauty and power of art later on, though, at that time, I still couldn’t even name my passion exactly. I found my path by talking and connecting with people who deeply interested me, out of such an innate inner drive, almost like an ignorant child trying to navigate this world and make friends. As I grew older, I came to realize it was such a gift and a blessing, a privilege, too, to know at a young age where my talent lies.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Day 1: Culinary Adventure Lunch: Start at Ruen Pair in Thai Town. Savor the authentic flavors with their iconic pig leg over rice. While here, take a stroll through the Thai grocery stores and soak in the vibrant ambiance.
Dinner: Head to the San Gabriel Valley for dinner. Dive into the culinary treasures at Luyixian. Feel the freedom to explore the menu; there’s a delightful surprise in every dish.

Day 2: A Chinese Breakfast & Art Films
Breakfast: Get an early start at Fortune NO 1. Bask in the morning vibes while munching on some of the best dumplings and buns LA has to offer.
Evening: Visit Brain Dead Studio. Pre-check their Instagram for the movie schedule. Engage in their film experience and don’t forget to grab one of their striking posters. Perfect memento!

Day 3: Hiking Day
Take on Mt. Baldy. Let’s enjoy nature for one day.

Day 4:
Evening: Head to CalArts. Thursdays are special here with their gallery nights. Dive into the student exhibitions, mingle, and perhaps find a piece of art that speaks to you.

Day 5: LA Landmarks
Explore Hollywood, the Walk of Fame, and TCL Chinese Theatre. Grab a bite at one of the local diners.

Day 6: Beach Day
Head to Santa Monica Pier or Venice Beach. Enjoy the ocean, street performers, and the sunset.

Day 7: Leisure & Farewell
Spend the day shopping at The Grove, lunch at the Farmer’s Market, and wind down with drinks at a rooftop bar downtown, enjoying the city lights.
In between, there are countless coffee shops, boutiques, and hidden gems scattered around LA to explore. Each place and activity captures a unique essence of the city, ensuring your friend leaves with memories they’ll cherish forever.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
When I sit down and really think about who’s had my back in this journey, CalArts comes to mind instantly. I mean, there’s just something special about that place. It’s not just a school; it’s like this huge, warm hug that wraps around you and doesn’t let go. I’ve been blessed with the kind of support and inclusion I felt there. Especially in the world of filmmaking, where every bit of your soul is poured into your work, and criticism can sometimes knock the wind out of you.

The faculty there – they’re gems! I remember countless times thinking I was in over my head, but they’d sit with me, and we’d have these real, heartfelt chats. And every single time, I’d walk away feeling like I had more than just answers. I had courage.

It’s hard to put into words how much that means to a young filmmaker. Because here’s the thing: you need technical skills, of course, but you also need someone to believe in you. Someone to say, “I see you, I believe in your vision, and I’ve got your back.” That’s CalArts for me.

So, if I’m shouting out to anyone today, it’s to the heartbeat of CalArts – the friends, the mentors, the community. You folks are the unsung heroes in my tale, and I just want to say, from the deepest part of my heart: Thank you.

Instagram: ej_yeh_1895

Image Credits
Sean Niu

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