We recently connected with Robin Wang and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Robin, thank you so much for making time for us today. Let’s jump right into a question so many in our community are looking for answers to – how to overcome creativity blocks, writer’s block, etc. We’d love to hear your thoughts or any advice you might have.
As a director, producer, and screenwriter deeply immersed in the development side of filmmaking, I’ve learned that overcoming creative blocks is most effectively achieved through collaboration with a creative partner, such as a co-writer or producer. The frustration of harboring ideas within one’s mind can be alleviated by engaging in constant, intelligent conversations that foster fresh perspectives and ideas. Taking breaks is equally essential, and I advocate for spending time amidst nature, especially away from a bustling city like Los Angeles. Embracing the healing and inspirational qualities of nature is a practice adopted by artistic luminaries like Thoreau, Keats, and Tolstoy. Immersion in Nature can replenish creative energy and maintain a vibrant, innovative mindset in us.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
I’m a multifaceted filmmaker, proficient in directing, producing, and writing across a spectrum of forms, including short films, features, documentaries, and web series. My extensive oeuvre has received acclaim, earning awards and recognition from esteemed institutions such as the Television Academy Foundation, the Director’s Guild of America, and over a hundred film festivals globally.
Several of my projects have garnered significant traction, amassing up to 12.3 million views on platforms like YouTube and TikTok. My professional journey encompasses a blend of personal endeavors and commissioned work for companies involved in both narrative and non-fiction content production.
Navigating a career in film and television requires a delicate balance between artistic vision and pragmatic business considerations. Presently, I’m at the forefront of the burgeoning trend in vertical-screen format series, particularly on platforms like Instagram and TikTok. I firmly believe that vertical-screen content holds immense potential and may very well represent the future of storytelling.
As a young professional, I relish the opportunity to shape the trajectory of vertical-content storytelling, actively directing and producing in this evolving landscape. Concurrently, I remain engaged in the development of passion projects and consistently seek opportunities through applications to young directors and writers labs, to keep myself engaged in the traditional side of the industry.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
I would definitely say that a filmmaker’s paramount quality is to develop an elevated taste for storytelling. Unlike technical skills, refined taste evolves through immersive exposure to literature, novels, and films. A deep dive into literary masterpieces serves as a pivotal step in expanding creative boundaries and crafting compelling narratives that resonate.
The other factor critical to success is the cultivation of an open sensibility toward diverse stories and cultures. Filmmakers must guard against the pitfalls of intellectual insularity, recognizing that film transcends cultural and geographical constraints. True masters of cinema demonstrate profound empathy for global narratives, extracting universal human messages that resonate across diverse backgrounds. The ability to navigate through varied contexts is integral to creating impactful and universally relatable stories.
Lastly, in the dynamic film industry, networking is extremely paramount. A thriving film is the result of a collaborative effort, demanding an expansive network of support. Beyond technical expertise, success lies in the ability to appreciate and inspire excellence in each collaborator’s craft. Behind every successful film stands a successful team, underscoring the necessity for filmmakers to foster a collaborative spirit and draw out the best from every individual involved in the creative process.
In conclusion, beyond mastering technical skills, a filmmaker’s journey to success involves a refined taste for storytelling, cultural openness, and adept networking and collaboration skills. Aspiring directors and producers should embody these qualities to craft impactful narratives that resonate globally.
How can folks who want to work with you connect?
Absolutely, I have been looking for partnerships at the producing and executive-producing levels — and I especially value producers who follow the production from its development through its finish line (post-production and distribution).
Please feel free to reach out to me via my Instagram: @robin_z_wang if you wish to collaborate!
Contact Info:
- Website: www.robinwangfilms.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/robin_z_wang/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/robin.wangzhongyu/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robin-zhongyu-wang-6219895a/
Image Credits
Nox Yang, Ghina Amani
