We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Jordan Qin a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Jordan, so good to have you with us today. We’ve got so much planned, so let’s jump right into it. We live in such a diverse world, and in many ways the world is getting better and more understanding but it’s far from perfect. There are so many times where folks find themselves in rooms or situations where they are the only ones that look like them – that might mean being the only woman of color in the room or the only person who grew up in a certain environment etc. Can you talk to us about how you’ve managed to thrive even in situations where you were the only one in the room?
I’ve long learned that the stories I want to tell, at the surface, are niche ones. When directing a film, the stories I write aren’t always universal events. I like to focus on telling queer female-led stories, which aren’t usually Hollywood’s main audience. However, at the core, I like to remember that every story is universal. Human emotions transcend gender, sexuality, and language. I try to tell stories I care about, knowing that someone out there cares about them, too. Whenever I think about the stories I create, I always think about when I was younger and never saw someone like me on screen. Asian characters were always reduced to side characters, often shoved into a stereotype or reduced to comic relief. Queer characters, when included, almost always had their lives end in tragedy. I think there’s merit to queer tragedy, especially since many of us have experienced it, but it shouldn’t be the only stories that are told. I want to write about queer joy, about loving and being loved, and I hope one day these stories are as normalized as heterosexual love stories.
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
I’m a writer & director currently focusing on finishing my MFA degree at Chapman University. I tend to write genre films about queer female anti-heroes, while my directing work consists more of female-led dramas. I love working in film, and there’s nothing like the pressure that you feel while being on set. Working in film is a dream, despite all the ups and downs and uncertainties. I’m working on two thesis films, one in post-production and one scheduled to shoot in March.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
My resilience, passion, and humility are the three biggest things that helped me get to where I am. I throw 100% of myself in any project, whether I’m only directing it or if it’s my lifeblood. I take every film shoot or script I write as a way to improve. I’m constantly pushing myself to maximize my time and bring my best to every project. In addition to that, the film industry is full of ups and downs. I try not to get too down on myself about missed opportunities; that’s the nature of the beast. I know I’m on the right path, and it’s about longevity, not instant success. I also think no job is too big or too small when working on a film. I’ll always crew for other people, whether it’s an Art PA job or being the 1st AD. I’m lucky enough to be surrounded by a wonderful community, and we support each other in whatever ways we can.
My best advice is to keep your ego in check for anyone starting in the film industry. No job is unimportant on a set. Also, make sure you have a good outlook on your life. We’re making movies; no matter how stressful it gets, that’s all. Have fun with it, and enjoy the journey.
Before we go, maybe you can tell us a bit about your parents and what you feel was the most impactful thing they did for you?
I could write a ten-page essay on my gratitude for my parents, but I’ll try to keep it short. I would say the most impactful thing they’ve done for me is give me their unwavering support. I’m sure it’s not every parent’s dream to hear, “Hey, I want to be a writer in the hardest industry to get into,” but they’ve been a beacon of support. My dad always picks up the phone whenever I need someone to talk to and constantly reassures me. I know I’m on the right path, I know this is what I’m meant to do, and I wouldn’t have such a strong conviction if it weren’t for them. They’ve sacrificed a lot for me, especially since pursuing film meant I live over 1000 miles away from them. Distance is even harder when I love them so much, but I know this is the path I’m meant to follow.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://jordanqin.wixsite.com/jqin
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jordanqin1/
Image Credits
Yukun Chen Michael Ji Kaylee Bao
