Meet Yi Qu

We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Yi Qu a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Yi, thank you so much for making time for us today. We’re excited to discuss a handful of topics with you, but perhaps the most important one is around decision making. The ability to make decisions is a key requirement for anyone who wants to make a difference and so we’d love to hear about how you developed your decision-making skills.

Developing my decision-making skills has been a continuous process shaped by both my formal education and practical experiences in the field. Initially, my academic background in Japanese language and translation taught me the principle of “信达雅” (faithfulness, expressiveness, and elegance), which I apply to editing. This principle emphasizes making decisions that remain true to the original vision while enhancing the narrative’s accessibility and aesthetic appeal.

Working in the Chinese film industry presented numerous challenges, such as navigating strict and vague censorship regulations. These experiences forced me to make quick, strategic decisions to ensure compliance while maintaining creative integrity. The intense competition and high-pressure environment also honed my ability to make effective decisions under stress.

Moving to Los Angeles further developed my decision-making skills. Adapting to a new cultural and professional landscape required me to learn and adjust quickly. Each project I’ve worked on, from “I Wish It Were You” to “My Alpha King Call Boy” and “Scents and Sensibility: Two Fated Mates,” presented unique challenges, such as limited coverage and sound quality issues. Collaborating closely with directors and producers, I learned to make innovative decisions that addressed these challenges and enhanced the final product.

Moreover, my decision-making skills have been refined through feedback and collaboration. Working with diverse teams, I have learned the importance of listening to different perspectives and incorporating constructive feedback into my decisions. This collaborative approach ensures that the best possible outcome is achieved for each project.

Overall, my decision-making skills have developed through a combination of education, practical experience, adaptability, and collaboration, enabling me to navigate complex situations and deliver impactful, high-quality work.

Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?

I am a film editor specializing in creating compelling narratives that resonate deeply with audiences. My work spans various genres, but I am particularly known for editing popular vertical short dramas on Dramabox, ByteDance platforms. Notable projects include “I Wish It Were You,” “My Alpha King Call Boy,” and “Scents and Sensibility: Two Fated Mates,” all of which gained significant popularity upon release.

What excites me most about my work is the opportunity to shape stories in a way that evokes emotion and connection. Editing is more than just piecing together footage; it’s about crafting a seamless and engaging narrative that draws viewers in and makes them feel invested in the characters and their journeys. The process of refining and enhancing a story through editing is incredibly rewarding, and I love seeing the final product resonate with audiences.

One aspect that sets my work apart is my cross-cultural perspective. Having worked in both the Chinese and Los Angeles film industries, I bring a unique sensitivity to cultural nuances and storytelling techniques that appeal to a global audience. This diversity in experience allows me to create stories that are not only entertaining but also culturally rich and authentic.

In terms of what’s new, I’m excited to share that I’m working on several upcoming projects that continue to push the boundaries of storytelling. Additionally, I’m exploring opportunities for expansion into other formats and platforms, leveraging the latest technology and trends in the industry to create even more engaging and innovative content.

I want readers to know that my commitment to storytelling goes beyond the technical aspects of editing. It’s about creating art that resonates, inspires, and connects people across different cultures and backgrounds. I’m always looking for new challenges and opportunities to collaborate with talented individuals and bring compelling stories to life.

There will be 2 more online mini series releasing very soon and I was the sole lead editor for one and the editor for other, I can’t tell you too much details due to the NDA restriction but it’s an interesting, funny but dark story. I hope everyone will like them when they get released.

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?

Moving from the Chinese film industry to Los Angeles required me to adapt quickly to new cultural and professional environments. This adaptability has helped me integrate different storytelling techniques and perspectives into my work, making my narratives more globally appealing. Precision and meticulousness are crucial in film editing, ensuring that every cut, transition, and visual element aligns perfectly with the narrative, enhancing the film’s overall quality. This attention to detail has helped me maintain high standards and deliver polished final products. Additionally, working closely with directors, producers, and other team members is essential for bringing stories to life. Effective collaboration ensures that everyone’s vision is aligned and that the final product is cohesive and compelling.

For those starting out, it is important to embrace change and be open to new experiences. Step out of your comfort zone and take on projects that challenge you to learn new skills. Developing a keen eye for detail by practicing and critically reviewing your work is also crucial. Pay attention to the small elements that contribute to a scene’s overall impact and seek feedback from peers and mentors to continuously refine your technique. Strong communication skills and active listening are essential for building relationships based on trust and respect, fostering a positive and cooperative working environment.

Expose yourself to various aspects of filmmaking and editing to become more versatile and skilled. Stay curious and continuously seek knowledge by attending workshops, taking courses, and keeping up with industry trends and technologies. Persistence is key in the challenging film industry, so keep honing your craft, stay dedicated to your goals, and don’t be discouraged by setbacks. Every experience, good or bad, is an opportunity to learn and grow. By focusing on adaptability, attention to detail, and effective collaboration, and by continuously seeking new experiences and knowledge, you can develop the skills needed to succeed in the film industry.

Okay, so before we go, is there anyone you’d like to shoutout for the role they’ve played in helping you develop the essential skills or overcome challenges along the way?

Throughout my journey in the film industry, several individuals and experiences have been instrumental in helping me overcome challenges and develop essential skills.

During my time in film school and beyond, I have been fortunate to learn from experienced mentors and educators. Their guidance has been invaluable in shaping my understanding of film editing and storytelling. They provided me with critical feedback, shared industry insights, and encouraged me to push my creative boundaries. One of my most influential mentors was my professor at Chapman University. Their teachings on the principles of editing and narrative structure laid a strong foundation for my career. Additionally, working closely with directors like Alan Shi and James Williams III offered practical learning experiences that were crucial in refining my skills.

Collaboration is a cornerstone of filmmaking, and working with talented directors, producers, and fellow editors has been key to my growth. These collaborations have not only helped me hone my technical skills but also taught me the importance of teamwork and effective communication. Directors Alan Shi and James Williams III played significant roles in my professional development. Their willingness to involve me in creative discussions and decision-making processes allowed me to gain deeper insights into the art of storytelling and editing.

Personal inspiration has also played a significant role in my journey. One particularly inspiring figure for me is Sergei Rachmaninoff, the renowned composer and pianist. His quote, “This is the only place on earth where a human being is respected for what he is and what he does and it does not matter who he is and where he came from,” beautifully captures the essence of Los Angeles and its open, accepting nature. Driving to film sets in Beverly Hills, I often listen to Rachmaninoff’s Piano Concerto No. 2 in C Minor. The emotional depth of his music helps me connect with my own creative process, serving as a spiritual journey that disconnects me from the daily grind and immerses me in the world of storytelling. Rachmaninoff’s influence has been a profound source of inspiration, reminding me of the power of art and creativity.

The support and encouragement from my family and friends have been vital in helping me stay resilient and motivated. Their belief in my abilities and their constant encouragement have been a source of strength during challenging times. My family, especially my parents, have always encouraged me to pursue my passion and have supported my decisions, even when it meant moving halfway across the world. Their unwavering support has been a constant source of inspiration.

For those early in their journey, my advice is to seek mentorship. Find mentors who can provide guidance, support, and constructive feedback. Their experience and knowledge can help you navigate the complexities of the industry. Build a support network of friends, family, and colleagues who can offer encouragement during tough times. Engage in collaboration and embrace opportunities to work with diverse teams. This can provide new perspectives and help you develop essential interpersonal and professional skills.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://finecut.com

Image Credits

Rutvij Reddy Seelam