Meet Jiarong Lu | Director / Production designer / Art Director

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

Hi Jiarong, do you have a favorite quote or affirmation?

“Better late than never.”
During my first year of high school, I heard this phrase from my math teacher, who was also my class teacher at the time. Although I was diligent and worked hard in high school, my grades were poor. Other students in the class were a level higher than me, and despite my efforts to catch up, it seemed unattainable. I felt disheartened and often thought about giving up. However, my class teacher noticed my attitude and called me to the office to counsel me earnestly. He said, “It’s like a race; if you’re one second behind, you won’t catch up all at once. It’s about gaining 0.1 seconds with each lap, and by the tenth lap, you’ll be on par with others. It may seem like a long process, but as long as you start chasing, you will get there.” I’ve remembered this phrase for a long time.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Recently, I completed a feature-length short film. This was my first attempt at a longer script, as I had previously focused on creating short films and music videos. The shorter preparation time and longer shooting period posed a significant challenge to my skills compared to previous projects. However, it was during the production of this longer film that I learned more about communication between various departments—confirming prop details with the director, ensuring color coordination with the costume department, and coordinating lighting and camera angles with the cinematography team, among other aspects. It made me realize that filmmaking is not just about the application of artistic talent but also the result of collaborative teamwork. This film is expected to be released within the next two months. Stay tuned!

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Day 1: Explore the Essentials

Morning: Start with breakfast at Urth Caffé on Melrose for delicious organic options.
Late Morning: Head to Griffith Observatory for panoramic views of the city.
Afternoon: Grab lunch at The Trails Cafe in Griffith Park.
Late Afternoon: Visit the Hollywood Walk of Fame and the TCL Chinese Theatre.
Evening: Dinner at Pizzana for artisanal pizzas, followed by drinks at Mama Shelter’s rooftop bar.
Day 2: Beach Day in Santa Monica and Venice

Morning: Breakfast at Sidecar Doughnuts in Santa Monica.
Late Morning: Spend the day at Santa Monica Pier, exploring Pacific Park and the beach.
Afternoon: Walk or bike down the Venice Beach Boardwalk and enjoy lunch at The Butcher’s Daughter.
Evening: Sunset cocktails at High Rooftop Lounge in Venice.
Day 3: Arts and Culture Day

Morning: Breakfast at Republique.
Late Morning: Explore The Getty Center’s art and architecture.
Afternoon: Head to LACMA for more art and the iconic Urban Light installation.
Evening: Dinner at Bestia in the Arts District.
Day 4: Downtown LA Adventure

Morning: Breakfast at Eggslut in Grand Central Market.
Late Morning: Explore The Broad Museum.
Afternoon: Stroll around the Arts District and have lunch at Wurstküche.
Evening: Dinner and drinks at Perch Rooftop Bar.
Day 5: Hiking and Relaxation

Morning: Hike in Runyon Canyon for fantastic views.
Afternoon: Lunch at Aroma Coffee & Tea Co. in Studio City.
Late Afternoon: Relax at Malibu’s Zuma Beach.
Evening: Dinner at Nobu Malibu for a beachfront dining experience.
Day 6: Foodie Day

Morning: Breakfast at Sqirl for their famous ricotta toast.
Late Morning: Explore the Melrose Avenue shopping district.
Afternoon: Lunch at Jon & Vinny’s for pizza and pasta.
Evening: Dinner at The Bazaar by José Andrés for a culinary adventure.
Day 7: Relaxing and Departure

Morning: Brunch at Gjelina in Venice.
Late Morning: Spend some leisure time at the Venice Canals.
Afternoon: Explore Abbot Kinney Boulevard for shopping.
Evening: Farewell dinner at Catch LA with a trendy rooftop ambiance.

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?
There are many people I want to express gratitude to. Throughout this journey, I am immensely thankful to my parents who have been unwavering in their support, providing encouragement and telling me that I am capable. Despite entering the industry later, they never doubted my abilities and were willing to believe that I could carve out a niche in the field I love. I also want to extend my thanks to the crew I have collaborated with. In each person, I see the professionalism that defines the industry. It is their dedication and expertise that instill in me the confidence to continue cultivating my presence in the film industry.

Website: https://www.chrissiecreated.com/

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