Meet Lu Li | Film Editor

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

Hi Lu, what role has risk played in your life or career?
Risk has been a constant in my career, and I’ve learned to see it as both a challenge and an opportunity. Film editing is not only a technical craft but also an artistic choice, demanding bold decisions—whether it’s experimenting with unconventional structures or navigating new industry dynamics. The rise of AI in post-production, such as auto-editing, sound design, AI composition, and VFX generation, has introduced uncertainty but also opportunities to enhance my craft.

Similarly, the post-COVID and post-strike periods emphasized adaptability. With fewer opportunities and increased competition, the industry has shifted resources from big productions to indie projects, low-budget TV mini-series, and documentaries. I’m acutely aware of these changes and adapted by editing projects like the TV mini-series The Return, which became the first show on the Pocket FM platform, over 43 million views. During this period, I also worked on the feature film From Embers, which had a theatrical release in October 2024 and is now available on Apple TV and Amazon Prime Video. Additionally, I edited the short film Purple as Whale, where I utilized AI tools to generate animation.

To me, risk isn’t something to fear but to manage. Staying static in a changing industry is the greatest risk of all, and by embracing innovation and focusing on artistry of storytelling, I’ve been able to turn challenges and risks into milestones.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I am a film editor from Beijing. Fueled by a fervent dedication to storytelling, I embarked on my professional journey as a documentary editor in China. More than twenty of the documentaries I edited were broadcast on local TV stations. Later, I transitioned into narrative storytelling. I am currently based in LA and obtained my MFA in Film Editing from the American Film Institute.

My work spans shorts, commercials, and feature films. I love diverse cultures and excel in dealing with sensitive and intimate emotions, navigating the pacing across various film genres, and possessing the unique insight and technical knowledge needed to develop compelling stories. The first Netflix original Arabic feature film, “NAGA,” on which I worked as supervising editor and post-production supervisor, was selected by TIFF 2023. The short “Life Agreement”, which I edited, wrote, and directed, was awarded and nominated by Academy Award-Qualifying Festivals – LA Shorts, and New York Independent Film Awards. The commercials I edited include WSJ China, Harry Winston, Dissona, etc. I love telling the story about ordinary people’s extraordinary lives.

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?
If my best friend were visiting Los Angeles, I’d want to give them an unforgettable mix of culture, food, and iconic experiences that really showcase the city. We’d definitely visit the Getty Center—it’s one of my favorite places in LA, with stunning architecture, amazing art collections, and breathtaking views of the city. Of course, no trip to LA is complete without checking out the Hollywood Sign, so we’d do a hike to soak in the scenery.

I’d also make sure to include some of my personal favorites. We’d have dinner in Thai Town at one of the restaurants I used to go to all the time when I was in school—there’s something nostalgic about sharing that with someone. I’d also take them to Westwood for a more relaxed vibe, maybe explore the Hammer Museum, and then head over to LACMA to see the art and the Urban Light installation. The Academy Museum of Motion Pictures is another must-visit. It’s such a cool way to dive into the magic of Hollywood and celebrate LA’s connection to film.

Food would be a huge part of the trip. One of my favorite things about Los Angeles is the authentic Chinese food in places like San Gabriel, Pasadena, El Monte, and Arcadia. We’d go all out—dim sum, noodles, hot pot—you name it. It’s a foodie’s paradise, and I love sharing those flavors with others.

Overall, I’d want them to leave LA not just having seen the famous spots but also having experienced the city through the lens of its art, culture, and food. To me, that’s what makes LA so special—it’s vibrant, diverse, and always full of surprises.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I want to express my deepest gratitude to my incredible AFI 2024 Editing classmates and all the fellows at the school. Your collaboration, support, and creativity have been instrumental in helping me reach this next step in my career. A heartfelt thank you to my family for their unwavering support and encouragement throughout this journey. I’m excited for what’s ahead and grateful for everyone who has been part of this chapter.

Website: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm13660762/?ref_=ext_shr_lnk

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lee.l.main/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lu-li-479439204

Image Credits
Genevieve, Netflix