Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Qiuping Han. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Alright, so we’re so thrilled to have Qiuping with us today – welcome and maybe we can jump right into it with a question about one of your qualities that we most admire. How did you develop your work ethic? Where do you think you get it from?
My work ethic comes from a combination of upbringing, personal curiosity, and the environments I’ve worked in. I was raised in a family where doing your part wasn’t negotiable—it was expected. That early sense of responsibility shaped how I approach everything, from school to professional life.
I studied cinematography at Beijing Film Academy and produced 20 short films during my early years—learned by doing. I’ve been through many difficult situations on set: tight schedules, limited resources, unexpected changes. Each challenge taught me something practical. There was no shortcut—just constant problem-solving and figuring things out as they came.
Later, I moved to Los Angeles for a producer training program held at Paramount Studios, where I had the chance to learn directly from professionals in the industry. That experience gave me a clearer understanding of what it takes to lead a production, both creatively and logistically.
Since then, I’ve worked on over 30 short films and more than 100 commercials across multiple countries. In each case, there’s been one constant: the need to show up, stay organized, and deliver under pressure. Producing, by nature, demands a strong work ethic. There are always unexpected challenges, and the job often involves more behind-the-scenes effort than anyone ever sees.
Even during my years in social media—managing creators, tracking data, overseeing monthly content calendars—the same mindset applied. Later, when I pivoted back into film development and began building IPs based on Chinese stories, I brought that same approach with me: stay focused, stay flexible, and keep moving forward.
So, I wouldn’t say my work ethic comes from one single moment or trait. It’s something that’s been shaped gradually—by the people I’ve worked with, the choices I’ve made, and the belief that good work always starts with showing up and doing the hard part, consistently.
Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?
I’m focused on elevating the role of women in the film industry and telling stories driven by female perspectives. At the core of what I do is a deep belief in building culture—supporting bold, new voices, and encouraging first-time filmmakers to take that leap into storytelling.
That mission comes to life through Bombax Films, a platform I founded to foster global collaboration and artistic experimentation. One of our standout projects, Summer in Chongqing, brought 15 American filmmakers to China to co-create short films with local artists. These teams had just 72 hours to complete their films—and the results were stunning. It’s a completely nonprofit initiative designed to bridge cultures, expand storytelling formats, and open new creative pathways for filmmakers around the world. Here is the website you can follow: www.bombaxfilms.com
We champion emerging directors, especially women, and we believe in pushing boundaries—whether that’s through genre, theme, or international partnerships. Recent works like Mother Nature, Song of Silence, and Between the Son and the Moon have been recognized at major festivals including SXSW, Fantasia, and the Beverly Hills International Film Festival.
Every year, new film projects are developed and completed in different cities across China, bringing together artists from around the world to collaborate and create through open dialogue and shared vision.
Right now, we’re expanding our focus on adaptations, cross-cultural narratives, and innovative genre-blending. We’re also deepening our commitment to inclusive storytelling and working with artists from different backgrounds and disciplines to create something that feels fresh and vital.
At Bombax, the goal is simple: to build a space where art meets risk, where new voices are heard, and where diverse stories get the attention they deserve.
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?
1. Courage – Especially as a woman working in film, courage has meant more than just taking risks. It’s about standing firm in your vision even when others don’t understand it yet, and pushing forward despite doubts—internal or external. My advice: don’t wait until you feel “ready.” Start before you’re comfortable. Courage grows through action, not overthinking. At the same time, this industry requires persistence. In the end, it’s those who refuse to give up and keep moving forward who win.
2. Cross-cultural perspective – My work lives at the intersection of cultures. Understanding how to listen, adapt, and collaborate across cultural boundaries has been key—not just creatively, but also in building lasting, respectful partnerships. For anyone starting out: travel if you can, collaborate with people who think differently than you, and be genuinely curious. This mindset will stretch your storytelling and open unexpected doors. Keep an open mind—never approach with prejudice. Plan 100% as best you can, but also allow your plan to be 100% broken if new possibilities arise. Don’t be rigid. Embrace the unexpected.
3. Community-building and partnerships – Whether through Bombax Films or projects like Summer in Chongqing, I’ve learned that choosing the right collaborators is everything. This is a deeply subjective industry, so don’t let others dictate what’s “right” or “wrong,” what’s “good” or “bad.” Instead, find partners who share your taste, values, and temperament, people who can support you and help you become a better version of yourself. Empowering new voices and creating opportunities for others also creates momentum that sustains everyone. My advice: don’t go it alone. Seek collaborators, mentors, and peers. Build something together. That’s where real energy lives.
Before we go, any advice you can share with people who are feeling overwhelmed?
When I feel overwhelmed, I usually start by moving my body. Exercise always helps—it clears my head, and sweating it out gives me that boost of dopamine I need to feel lighter. Afterwards, I like to reward myself a little, maybe go to that restaurant I’ve been eyeing for ages but never made time for, and bring some friends along. Sharing good food always lifts my spirit.
At the same time, I think it’s important to slow down. Meditation is one way I let myself quiet down and really listen to my own voice. I also believe in talking things out—whether it’s with a mentor or a close friend. Sometimes just putting your confusion into words and hearing another perspective is enough to shift how you see the problem.
And then there’s writing. I always keep a notebook with me, and whenever I feel tangled up, I just write everything out without editing. Later, I’ll type it up and read it on my screen. Somehow, when I see my thoughts laid out in front of me, the mess turns into patterns, and the answers usually become obvious.
Honestly, I think the key is to combine movement, reflection, and connection. Sweat it out, quiet the noise, share a meal, and don’t be afraid to lean on people who can help you see things more clearly.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.bombaxfilms.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/qiuping_han?igsh=c3JqcGxhYmpyc2Vi
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/qiuping-han-21444233a/
- Other: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm8017384/
Image Credits
Brandon Goebel, Charlie Zhou
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