Meet Joanne Mony Park | Writer / Director

We had the good fortune of connecting with Joanne Mony Park and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Joanne Mony, is there something you believe many others might not?
I remember being told from a young age to give everything my best, no matter what, give it 100%, and never give up. I found this to be exhausting.

During my final week before graduating NYU’s graduate film program, I bought natto at Manhattan’s Koreatown and experienced my first panic attack as I stepped out of an H-Mart. At the time, I wasn’t sure what this feeling was, but looking back, I realize I was stretched thin. I had no balance – I was just trying to keep up or catch up. I was working a full time position at Conde Nast at the time, and after leaving the office, I would come back to Bushwick, shovel some mandoo for dinner, write some pages of my script, prep for a music video shoot, show up to a birthday gathering (on time), throw laundry in the washer, call my mom, then clean every corner of my apartment with clorox wipes. And I wondered, do I really need to sanitize my apartment this hard right now? It’s a silly thing because these are all ordinary tasks, but I didn’t have to give every aspect of my life 100% all at once. I’m allowed to ask for help or simply say no.

I think it’s important to let some things go. I’m a firm believer of one thing at a time, step by step, bird by bird. I love getting lost in my calendar (I need a physical calendar hanging by my desk, pen to paper, to visually see time, to remind myself that there’s still plenty time; it keeps me grounded and focused). I forgot to choose and prioritize what’s important to me and tried juggling everything at once hoping things would stay afloat. Now I know some things just deserve 30% of my effort and time, it was a naive thing to believe in from the first place. You can give something 30% that day, return to it the next, and still never give up.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
When I share with people (outside the film industry) that I’m a writer/ director, their first reaction is often one of excitement – what a fascinating career! But most of my days I’m seated at my computer responding to emails or listening to music on my noise-canceling headphones, trying to drown out any self-doubt, convincing myself my script is decent (because it is!). It’s a strange feeling because when I am on set, it’s electrifying. Directing is a privilege because everyone involved shares the common goal of bringing this thing on the page to life. It’s one big collaboration where we listen, take risks, trust, and give it our all. But leading up to that moment, it’s a lot of hoping, crossing my fingers, and zoom calls.

I used to work at a small independent movie theater in college. It was the best experience because not only did I get free popcorn, I was able to watch all the films I wanted, as many times as I pleased. Being exposed to a variety of perspectives with diverse narratives was so refreshing, I wanted to see more. At the end of each film, as I swept popcorn off the floor, I found myself absorbed in the end credits. Scanning through the rolling credits, I recognized that filmmaking is pure collaboration.

My time there taught me a fundamental truth: filmmaking is truly a collective endeavor. We need each other. Regardless of talent or skill, community is essential. I feel fortunate to be a part of a community where we can continue to uplift and motivate each other and I’m looking forward to meeting more folks who share similar aspirations in overlooked narratives.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I grew up in Torrance, which is in the South Bay of LA. Growing up if I wasn’t in the South Bay, I was in Koreatown. My favorite spots were DanSungSa and The Prince. But before I throw them into a night of soju and karaoke, I’d start with Griffith Park, the view of LA from the observatory is always pretty magical. After a little hike, there’s a cafe called The Trails at the bottom of the park, we could get a fresh squeezed lemonade or drive over to Proof Bakery for a coffee and croissant. If they’re in the mood for something stronger, I’d probably take them to Edendale for a glass of beer in their back patio – there’s a photobooth if you want to capture the moment. I used to live in Los Feliz and still have a soft spot for Little Dom’s blueberry pancakes, Maru for a matcha latte, or Alcove for a snack.

The Getty Museum is always a classic. Knowing my friends, we probably won’t go through the whole museum, but it’s worth it for the tram ride and music alone. And since we’ll be closer to the water, it’s always nice to drive down the 1 then grab something sweet, or lunch, or both at Gjusta in Venice. While we’re on the West side, I’d suggest popping into the Tortoise General store for a little shopping. When I travel, I like to see grocery stores or order delivery at least once so we could stay in and order Sichuan food from Alhambra after popping into a Trader Joes, Mitsuwa, or (if we’re feeling bold) Erewhon. If my friend is a fan of oysters, I’d suggest Found Oysters in Hollywood, even though parking is impossible, get there before they open. And speaking of Hollywood, I’d go to Horses for their fries and steak, maybe a martini.
I also like listening to live music when I’m traveling someplace new, so Zebulon or Lodge Room could be fun. If we find ourselves on the East side, I’d never say no to tacos, anywhere really but King Taco is still my favorite. Last but not least, one must would be In-N-Out because… LA, milkshakes, and french fries.

But please take this all with a grain of salt because I haven’t been out in a long time!

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?
When I feel fortunate to have met or know someone, or experience a meaningful connection, I know it’s special because I feel so grateful that my body doesn’t know what to do with it in that moment.

I’ve always felt incredibly grateful to have a brother like mine. I know most people aren’t out here shouting out their brother but Chanwoo Park has been my rock since the beginning and I’m continuously inspired by his example. My brother is a person of unwavering integrity and discipline and people always tell me I’m lucky to have an older brother (Oppa) like him. Growing up, I never realized that not all siblings shared the same bond that my brother and I did. He would often include me in games of handball with his friends at school and invited me to his friend’s sleepovers – a space younger sisters were not traditionally invited to. Because we shared a bedroom as kids, we shared stories of otherness without knowing the significance at the time.

He’s now a captain with United Airlines (yes, there are a lot of jokes around Boeing 737) but when we’re not teasing each other or binge-watching Korean dramas, he’s always willing to lend an ear to all my (not-so-great)ideas when it comes to my script. I’ve witnessed firsthand his and my sister-in-law’s genuine compassion for others. They’ve shown me what unconditional love and support means. They approach every person with open-mindedness and are never quick to judge. I think that’s important no matter what industry you’re in. My sister-in-law is a teacher for ESL students in Palos Verdes, and brings a gentle yet humorous approach to overcoming any challenge. They have two kids now and I watch how, as a family, one unit, how they exemplify listening, understanding, and mutual respect. It’s always a privilege to watch them grow and navigate life’s ups and downs, it’s a constant source of learning and inspiration for me.

My other shout out goes to Simone Ling (who is a big introvert so she might not want this shoutout) but I feel really lucky to know Simone Ling – I met her in 2018 after the premiere of my feature Fish Bones. Since then, she’s not only been a mentor but a good friend. It’s rare to meet someone of her caliber who is genuinely kind, intelligent, altruistic, and does it all with charm, grace, and humor. Simone is an unwavering advocate for women, POC, the AAPI and queer community.

Filmmaking can be daunting, and it’s easy to feel confused and overwhelmed. But she takes the time to listen and chat through all the big and small emotions that come with film but also life. We’ll have a cup of tea, or (let’s be real) a glass of wine, and talk about parking tickets, the best Asian snacks, East versus West LA, but also big themes in scripts such as love and loss. I know she has a lot going on as a creative producer, story consultant, a film programmer, an AFI instructor, and more (I can’t keep up), but she never makes you feel rushed or unheard. Committed to getting unheard stories seen, she continues to push for diverse voices by connecting filmmakers. She’s someone who sincerely recognizes the value of community support in this industry, and that we all need each other.

But it’s truly a privilege to know someone who embodies such honesty and authenticity and anyone who’s had the opportunity to meet her will know what I mean. Also, shoutout to her pup Alice who is just really cute.

Website: www.joannemony.com

Instagram: @jomony

Image Credits
BTS Photographer: Bianca Catbagan