Meet yiqi feng | Film & Advertising Producer & Marketing Analyst

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

Hi yiqi, we’d love to hear more about your end-goal, professionally.
When I was 14, I started writing a full-length novel set in China during the Republican period. The story’s main characters are two women trying to find themselves and become independent and self-reliant against the backdrop of a big-time revolution and fall in love with each other for ten years. As of today, this story has been in my life for twelve years. My ultimate goal is to turn this story into a three-dimensional film and create a wonderful fantasy film world.

However, the meaning behind it is my view and support for feminism and society’s feminist movement. Today’s China is undoubtedly undergoing a historic change and is struggling to pass through a historical past. In rapid modernization and commercialization, women’s social and cultural status is undergoing a tragic rumbling process. A blatant repression and retrogression may come with a more conscious and profound female resistance. In the meantime, women may become part of the “visible human race,” and women’s movies and television may become part of the new public space as a kind of marginal culture.

My final career plan is to be part of such a meaningful film. Or, the goal of constantly creating films that can speak for this situation, even if only a tiny part of the effort, will still be worth it.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
When discussing my artistic career as a film producer based on my marketing background, I am delighted to share my journey from marketing to the film industry. This process has been complete with challenges and self-discovery, with each step allowing me to better understand myself and my creative passion. It is not just a career shift but a profound personal revelation.

Over the past two years, I have faced numerous unexpected challenges and valuable learning opportunities. When I first started interning with a film crew, I was struck by the complexity of teamwork and creative realization. Each day brought new learning experiences, from understanding the filming process to handling unforeseen situations. Every project and every scene was a new adventure, providing endless opportunities for growth and learning.

My first role as a producer’s assistant marked a significant turning point. In this position, I learned how to handle daily tasks, communicate with various people, and remain calm and efficient in high-pressure environments. These experiences enhanced my practical skills and honed my leadership and problem-solving abilities. I learned how to find solutions in a complex environment, stay composed under pressure, and effectively coordinate and communicate within a team.

In my personal life, I have also faced numerous challenges. For instance, during one of our shoots, our crew was defrauded by residents, forcing me to report the incident to the police. It was my first time sitting in a police station facing a confrontation, which felt like a scene from a movie. Despite the fear and confusion, I learned to remain calm and resolve the issue. This experience not only strengthened my resolve but also boosted my confidence. I realized that actual growth often occurs in the face of challenges and adversity.

On this journey, I have had no support from any team or organization; every step has been driven by personal effort and determination. Each achievement is a testament to my relentless hard work and perseverance. I take pride in this and am confident about the future. Every project and every progress I make is evidence of my dedication and ongoing pursuit of my dreams.

I want to share my story and work with the world, allowing people to understand my journey. This is not merely a career but a path filled with passion and dreams. My experiences can inspire more people to pursue their dreams bravely, face challenges head-on, and move forward with determination. I believe that everyone has the potential to create miracles as long as they remain persistent—dreams will eventually come true.

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.
During my recent summer vacation, I spent ten unforgettable days in France. Among them, my journey in Nice, in southern France, left a powerful impression on me. I want to use this experience as an example. If my friends were to visit Nice, I would take them on a week-long trip full of beautiful memories. We would start in the old town, strolling along the narrow cobblestone streets, admiring the colorful buildings and historic churches. Here, we would discover many antique shops selling rings and other unique handcrafted items imbued with ancient stories. These treasures tell touching stories that resonate with the interplay of feminism and society depicted in French cinema. We can feel the spirit of independent women and their essential societal roles.

In the following days, we would immerse ourselves in the art and culture of Nice. We would visit the Matisse and Chagall Museums, appreciating the masterpieces of these artists, and enjoy meals at local cafes and restaurants. We could watch a French film in the evening, experiencing the romantic atmosphere and profound social commentary in the movies.

The natural beauty of Nice is also to be noticed. We would head to Castle Hill, enjoying panoramic views of Nice from the top and admiring the beautiful Mediterranean scenery. On Castle Hill, we would find a picturesque restaurant for lunch and relax in the park, savoring the beauty of nature.

Of course, shopping and entertainment are also part of the journey. We would shop on Avenue Jean Médecin, exploring boutiques and fashion brands. At Place Masséna, we would find many interesting restaurants and bars, spending a pleasant evening.

Next, we would go to Villefranche-sur-Mer beach to enjoy the sun and sand, trying swimming, surfing, or kayaking. We would also rent a small boat to explore the beautiful blue coast and have dinner at an open-air restaurant by the sea, watching the sunset.

In the last few days, we would drive to the village of Eze, a beautiful hilltop village known for its ancient stone buildings and narrow alleys. In Eze, we would enjoy delicious French cuisine, visit the tropical garden, and admire the stunning Mediterranean panorama.

Overall, the old town of Nice is not only a place worth exploring, but it also lets one feel the deep cultural heritage of France and the unique charm presented in films. Through this trip, I hope my friends can fully experience the beauty and charm of Nice, from culture and nature to shopping and entertainment, with each day full of fun and surprises. This week-long trip will become one of their most cherished memories.

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?
My journey cannot be classified as that of a successful or outstanding individual. However, when I look back at my transition from a business student to a film producer, I deeply recognize many people’s indispensable efforts, support, guidance, love, and encouragement. Yet, if I were to single out one person I greatly admire spiritually, who has guided me in my work and strengthened my resolve toward my goals, it would be a female filmmaker. That person is the distinguished Chinese film researcher, Professor Dai Jinhua.

As mentioned earlier, my dream is to use film as a medium to give voice to social phenomena and to achieve many dreams that are difficult to realize in everyday life. When discussing the role of women in the development and impact of film history, one cannot overlook the outstanding Chinese film researcher, Professor Dai Jinhua. Through her research and advocacy, she has spoken out for feminist cinema, exploring and analyzing how films reflect gender roles and societal issues.

In her work, Professor Dai not only focuses on the aesthetics and techniques of film art but also delves deep into how films use cinematography, narrative, and character development to reflect and influence society’s understanding of gender, power, and identity. Her research not only injects new perspectives into film studies but also provides a crucial theoretical foundation for discussing the status and voices of women in cinema.

In the history of Chinese cinema, women are not just subjects or objects in films; they are also creators and advocates. From early female directors like Lu Jinhua to modern-day female screenwriters and producers, their works and influence are undeniable. Through her in-depth study of these works and creators, Professor Dai Jinhua shows us the diversity and importance of women in the art of cinema.

Therefore, Professor Dai Jinhua is not only a guiding figure in my academic journey but also a significant inspiration for my concern about gender issues in film. Her work has not only broadened my academic horizons but also motivated me to speak out for feminist cinema in my field and to use art to express and influence society.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/taylori_?igsh=bGFsdDZvdTR0dGRu&utm_source=qr