Meet Yanghuixiao Gao | Gaoyang | Director, Producer, Writer, Cinematographer

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

Hi Yanghuixiao, where are your from? We’d love to hear about how your background has played a role in who you are today?
My journey into the world of storytelling commenced in China, where I grew up and pursued studies in digital media art. It was during this period that I encountered a profoundly transformative Japanese film titled ‘Memories of Matsuko,’ directed by Tetsuya Nakashima. This cinematic experience served as a powerful awakening, igniting within me a deep-seated passion for storytelling’s capacity to illuminate the human experience and inspire positive change.

Growing up in China, there was a prevailing expectation, particularly for women, to subsume their own identities in service to others. This societal pressure to prioritize the needs of others over one’s own individuality led to a disconnect within myself that I didn’t fully recognize until encountering ‘Memories of Matsuko.’ Through the lens of this film, I saw reflected a version of myself that had been obscured—a realization that sparked a journey of self-discovery and personal growth.

At Emerson College, where I pursued my MFA in Film, I delved into writing and directing as avenues for self-expression and exploration. Developing stories and characters became not only a creative pursuit but also a means of deeper understanding—of myself, of others, and of the world at large. This journey was marked by moments of struggle, anger, understanding, acceptance, and ultimately, a commitment to embracing my authentic self.

For women, especially those who have long been suppressed or marginalized, the journey to self-realization requires immense courage and effort. It involves breaking free from societal constraints, finding one’s voice, and daring to be seen and heard in a world that often seeks to silence or diminish individuality. My own journey has imbued me with a profound desire to share my experiences with others through storytelling, in the hope of inspiring similar journeys of self-discovery and empowerment.

Now, as a filmmaker, I am committed to sharing my journey with the world through storytelling. My aim is to inspire others to embark on their own paths of self-discovery and empowerment, much like ‘Memories of Matsuko’ did for me.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My works focus on personal growth and struggle, themes that resonate universally but are approached with a distinctly feminine sensibility. I am drawn to direct and produce stories that are authentic, nuanced, and warm, with characters that feel complex, real, and relatable. Whether I’m exploring “what if” scenarios or delving into the depths of personal struggle, my aim is to create narratives that touch the hearts of audiences and leave a lasting impression. I draw inspiration from the world around me, paying close attention to the nuances of daily life and the people I encounter. I’ve always been fascinated by the complexity of human nature, both the darkness and the warmth. It is my passion to capture those subtle moments and stories and bring them to life.

My professional journey began in editing, a role that provided me with invaluable insights into shot planning as a director. As I immersed myself deeper into filmmaking, I discovered my true passion for writing and directing narrative films. This realization prompted me to pursue further education, leading me to film school in the United States after four years of editing experience. At Emerson College, where I pursued my MFA in Film, I embraced writing and directing as my primary forms of self-expression, while also gaining practical experience in various aspects of filmmaking, including camera work and lighting. Engaging in roles such as producer and cinematographer for fellow filmmakers’ projects allowed me to explore diverse genres, from documentaries to experimental filmmaking. Internships and assisting production companies in Los Angeles further broadened my industry knowledge.

Navigating my journey as an independent filmmaker was far from easy; it presented a myriad of challenges alongside moments of triumph. One significant hurdle was adjusting to a new culture. As a non-English speaker, accurately expressing my thoughts and opinions added complexity to my creative pursuits. Breaking into renowned festivals for exposure was another daunting task that required dedication and relentless effort.

Throughout my journey, I’ve learned invaluable lessons in perseverance, patience, and sincerity. Challenges and obstacles are inevitable, but I’ve come to understand that the key is to keep moving forward. Success takes time and trusting the process, while embracing each step along the way, has been crucial. Importantly, I’ve learned to be honest with myself and my work. It’s all about taking one step at a time and enjoying the ride. Despite facing numerous hurdles, there have been moments of pure triumph, such as earning official selection status for my latest short film “What If” at prestigious Academy Awards® accredited festivals.

Ultimately, my aim is simple: to share genuine stories and emotions through my work and hopefully touch a few hearts along the way.

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, I’d ensure they experience the absolute best of our area with a week-long adventure packed with memorable experiences.

We’d start by immersing ourselves in art and culture, visiting renowned museums like the Getty, Getty Villa, LACMA, and the Huntington Library, Art Museum & Botanical Gardens.

Next up, we’d indulge in some retail therapy at hotspots like The Grove, Westfield Century City, and Melrose Ave, exploring trendy boutiques and soaking up the local vibe.

No trip to our area would be complete without catching a mesmerizing sunset at Griffith Observatory, followed by delicious dining in Koreatown and rooftop bar hopping downtown.

For a taste of California’s coastal charm, we’d spend a day at Manhattan Beach, soaking up the sun and enjoying a bonfire sunset at Dockweiler Beach. We’d cap off the evening with a delectable dinner and a glimpse into West Hollywood’s lively nightlife scene.

And of course, no weekend would be complete without a leisurely brunch at The Great White in Larchmont Village, followed by a leisurely stroll through the local farmer’s market.

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?
I’d like to extend a heartfelt shoutout to three individuals who have significantly contributed to my journey and success:

First and foremost, I want to express my deepest gratitude to Yingtong Li. Not only is she an incredible friend, but she has also been an invaluable work partner. From Yingtong, I’ve learned the importance of maintaining calmness amidst chaos, the significance of self-trust, and the resilience required to navigate the challenges of adulthood. Her guidance has been instrumental in shaping me as a director and as an individual.

Next, I want to acknowledge Chilam Chen for his unwavering support and mentorship. As a talented writer-director, Chilam has continuously pushed me out of my comfort zone, encouraging me to confront reality, face my fears, and delve deeper into my storytelling. His relentless dedication to his craft has inspired me to strive for excellence and authenticity in my work.

Last but certainly not least, I want to recognize Yue Hua for her hard work and dedication to her art. As a fellow filmmaker specializing in 16mm analog film and experimental work, Yue has expanded my understanding of film and the filmmaking process. Collaborating with her as a producer and cinematographer has allowed me to explore new and innovative approaches to storytelling. Yue’s commitment to pushing boundaries and trying new things has been truly inspiring.

To Yingtong, Chilam, and Yue—thank you for your unwavering support, mentorship, and inspiration. Your contributions have been invaluable to my journey as a filmmaker, and I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to learn and grow alongside each of you.

Website: https://www.gaoyangfilms.com/

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

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yanghuixiao-gao/