Meet Jiawen Han | Director & Screenwriter

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

Hi Jiawen, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
I’ve always been drawn to storytelling, even from a young age. Growing up in a small town, nobody in my family was in the film industry, but my dad, a film enthusiast in his spare time, opened up a whole world of storytelling for me. His collection was like a treasure trove, full of films from diverse cultures and places, sparking my imagination and love for storytelling.

As an Asian filmmaker, I’ve always felt a calling to share stories that authentically represent our community and culture. I rarely saw characters or narratives that reflected my own experiences on screen, which fueled my desire to tell stories that break stereotypes and explore universal themes connecting us all as human beings. Being a female director adds another layer to my storytelling, as I’m deeply passionate about exploring the complexities of women’s lives. In my films, I aim to delve into themes important to women – our identity, struggles, desires, wisdom, and freedom.

Last year, I completed my MFA Degree in Narrative Directing at UCLA. Before UCLA, I worked as a TV commercial director for years. While I enjoyed the work, I desired to tell more meaningful stories that resonated with my community and amplified women’s voices. This led me to transition to film and television, where I could pursue my passion for storytelling in a more profound and impactful way.

Now, I am an independent film director/screenwriter based in Los Angeles.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I am deeply passionate about crafting narratives that explore the intricacies of women’s lives. My recent films, “SUMMER RAIN” and “THE GUEST,” exemplify this dedication to telling compelling female-driven stories.

In “Summer Rain,” I delve into the challenges of postpartum depression, challenging societal norms that confine women to predefined roles as flawless caregivers. Meanwhile, “The Guest” portrays the dynamics between a mother and daughter, unraveling the complexities of their relationship during a stormy reunion at the daughter’s wedding. Beginning on a joyful note, the film delves into emotional intricacies and unresolved wounds, shedding light on the unspoken bonds within families.

Through my films, I am committed to challenging the pervasive gender biases ingrained in our society. As an Asian female filmmaker, breaking into the film and television industry in the U.S. has been exceptionally challenging. The industry has long been dominated by particular narratives, sidelining voices from diverse backgrounds. This lack of representation not only limits the stories we can tell but also perpetuates harmful stereotypes about Asian communities.

As a screenwriter and director, I take pride in my work and will continue to craft narratives that resonate with audiences and give voice to unheard stories. I believe in the power of storytelling to break barriers, foster understanding, and delve into the universal human experience.

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?
For a week-long trip, I’d start by taking my friend to UCLA to explore the campus and its landmarks, given my status as a UCLA graduate. We’d grab lunch at In-n-Out in Westwood, a classic LA spot. I might also take them to Marina Del Rey, where I live nearby. We’d stroll along the harbor, rent bikes or kayaks, and enjoy dinner at a harbor restaurant.

One of the highlights of our week would be a visit to the Getty Center, where we’d immerse ourselves in its beautiful gardens, art collections, and panoramic views of the city. We’d take a break at one of the center’s cafes for lunch.

As a filmmaker, I’d be excited to take my friend to the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures, explore its exhibits, and maybe catch a screening. We might spend an entire day delving into the rich history of cinema.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I would like to dedicate my shoutout to my husband, Lan Yang, who has been an unwavering source of support and inspiration. His talent as a Director of Photography has not only enriched my creative work but also encouraged me to push the boundaries of my storytelling. His belief in me has been a driving force behind my every achievement.

I also want to recognize my parents for their unconditional support. Despite not working in the film industry or fully understanding my career path, they have always stood by me, cheering me on every step of the way. Their belief in my abilities has given me the confidence to pursue my dreams, and I am incredibly grateful for their love and encouragement.

Additionally, I would like to acknowledge all the collaborators I have worked with in my films, who have shaped my journey as a filmmaker. Their critique, feedback, and encouragement have been invaluable, and I am thankful for the lessons I have learned from each of them.

Website: https://www.jiawenh.com/

Instagram: https://instagram.com/jiawen_han_?igshid=NzZlODBkYWE4Ng%3D%3D&utm_source=qr

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jiawen-han-a5b12a172/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jiawen.han.378?mibextid=LQQJ4d