Meet Heyi Pan | Writer/Director

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

Hi Heyi, what is the most important factor behind your success?
The most important factor behind my success in filmmaking is networking. In this industry, especially when you’re starting out, being known by the right people is crucial. Jobs and opportunities often come from those connections.

at Chapman University’s Dodge College of Film and Media Arts, I made it a point to attend industry events and be on as much set as possible. Meeting established filmmakers, producers, and like-minded students allowed me to showcase my work and secure valuable opportunities.

Networking is more than just making connections; it’s about maintaining and nurturing those relationships. By staying engaged with my network, collaborating on projects, and offering support, I’ve built a reputation as a reliable and creative filmmaker. This has led to recommendations and repeat work, which are essential for long-term success.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
My business is all about creating compelling and visually striking films that explore deep human emotions and societal issues. What sets my work apart is the strong visual storytelling combined with intricate narratives that often delve into crime, thriller, psychological suspense, and surrealism. I’m particularly proud of my recent work, “MingLing,” which tells the story of an immigrant struggling with a self-identity crisis. This film was incredibly challenging to make but holds significant meaning not just for me, but also for the communities and individuals it represents.

Getting to where I am today has not been easy. The filmmaking industry is highly competitive, and there are countless obstacles along the way, from securing funding to finding the right team and resources. However, I’ve learned that persistence and resilience are key.

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is the importance of staying true to your vision while remaining adaptable. Filmmaking is a collaborative process, and being open to new ideas and perspectives can elevate your work to new heights. I’ve also learned the value of storytelling in creating connections and evoking emotions, which is something I strive to achieve in every project.

What I want the world to know about me and my brand is that we are dedicated to telling stories that matter. Whether it’s exploring the complexities of identity in “MingLing” or shedding light on societal issues, our goal is to create films that resonate with audiences on a deep level. Our work is a testament to the power of storytelling and the impact it can have on individuals and communities.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my best friend were visiting, I’d make sure to show them the best of what Orange County has to offer. We’d start with a tour of Chapman University to showcase where I study and work on my films. The campus has a vibrant atmosphere and great spots to grab a coffee or a quick lunch.

Next, we’d head to Irvine to explore its parks and shopping centers. Irvine has a mix of natural beauty and modern amenities that are always fun to check out. We could spend some time walking around the parks or visiting the local shops.

Lastly, we’d spend time in Old Towne Orange. It’s one of my favorite places with its charming streets, antique shops, and cozy cafes. We’d definitely enjoy some good food and maybe catch some live music if there’s a performance. These spots offer a great mix of what makes Orange County special, combining education, nature, and a bit of local history.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Absolutely, I’d like to give a huge shoutout to my co-worker and girlfriend, Amber Li. Amber was the Director of Photography for my thesis, and she’s an incredibly talented filmmaker and deep thinker. She constantly inspires me to think about filmmaking and storytelling from different dimensions and encourages me with her unwavering spirit.

The way Amber composes images and stages the camera is unique and impressive, taking every film we make together to another level. Her vision and creativity have profoundly influenced my work and have been crucial to my growth as a filmmaker. Her support and collaboration have been invaluable, and I truly couldn’t have achieved what I have without her.

Website: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm11142030/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/philosohuey?igsh=YTQwZjQ0NmI0OA%3D%3D&utm_source=qr