Meet Michael Cong | cinematographer & filmmaker

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

Hi Michael, can you talk to us a bit about the social impact of your business?
The core of our filmmaking practice is to spread love in the world and to understand each other with respect. The superficial differences sometimes make us overlook the similarities we share as human beings. At Màn Rán Studio, we are dedicated to bringing nuanced human stories to the world audience. As international filmmakers, we are aware of the cultural barriers that make it challenging to understand our diverse communities with beautiful languages. By focusing on the everyday human experiences, we believe we can nurture genuine connections through collective emotional growth. We share our authentic personal perspectives to the world audience through our film projects.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
As a cinematographer, I find immense joy in collaborating with filmmakers on projects that transport me to another world, where I am free to explore my curiosity and observe my surroundings with a childlike wonder. While technical expertise is crucial in my profession, what sets cinematographers apart is our intuition. Personal growth as a cinematographer is a culmination of technical skills acquired through practical experience on set, whether as a DP, AC, or gaffer. Additionally, trusting one’s intuition and taking risks with unconventional methods are equally vital to professional development. Ultimately, it is these creative choices that bring something unique to the audience’s experience.

In my filmmaking practice, my primary focus is the human experience. This includes the cast and crew, the audience, and my own emotional connection to the subject matter. As a cinematographer, I am the lens through which the audience views the world. I treasure each moment of emotional connection I experience behind the camera, knowing that this sincerity will translate into a profound impact on the audience.

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 would love to take my friends on a tour of Flushing in Queens, New York. As one of the largest Chinese communities in the city, it’s a perfect example of how different cultures come together and coexist. I’d start by taking them on a stroll down Main Street or Roosevelt Ave, where they can experience the vibrant energy of the area. There are countless Chinese, Korean and South-east Asian restaurants in the neighborhood, many of which offer their unique take on American cuisine. One of my favorite spots to take them would be the food court at the New World Mall, where they can taste the diverse flavors of the vendors. For culture enthusiasts, New York City offers a plethora of world-class museums to explore. Among them, the Noguchi Museum in Queens is one of my favorites. The architecture of the museum creates a serene ambiance, with its hallways and windows working in perfect harmony with natural light and air.

At night, a visit to the Village Vanguard in the West Village is a must-do. This legendary cellar has hosted some of the greatest jazz musicians of all time. The venue is always brimming with fantastic music and a positive vibe. Being there reminds me why art is so vital – when artists create with love and share that energy with an audience, it spreads a wave of love and positivity that is unmatched. It’s truly one of the best experiences in the world.

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?
What draws me to filmmaking the most is its collaborative nature. It is nearly impossible to achieve success in this art form without the support of creative partners, a skilled crew, and a like-minded community. This collaboration is the foundation of our creativity and strength. I would like to take this opportunity to recognize and thank my talented creative partners at Màn Rán Studio, my mentor Chitra Neogy, and all the professors who taught me at NYU and Columbia. I am also grateful for the invaluable knowledge and inspiration I gained from cinematographer Robby Muller. Finally, I wish to acknowledge the many filmmakers who have pushed the boundaries of cinema and whose films have left a lasting impression on my heart.

Website: michaelcong.com

Instagram: @congfusion

Other: manranstudio.site

Image Credits
Michael Cong Portrait: Jordan Rodriguez Valenti