We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Yi (historia) Wang. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Yi (Historia) below.
Hi Yi (Historia), really happy you were able to join us today and we’re looking forward to sharing your story and insights with our readers. Let’s start with the heart of it all – purpose. How did you find your purpose?
Thank you for this opportunity to share my story with Bold Journey Magazine. My name is Yi “Historia” Wang, and I am a film producer originally from Shanghai. I began my career in New York but am now based in Los Angeles, where I focus primarily on producing films that explore diverse narratives and human experiences.
I found my purpose in filmmaking through my desire to document meaningful moments in life. Due to my forgetfulness, I initially relied on journaling and creating handbooks to capture my thoughts and experiences. Later, I began sharing moments through WeChat posts, but over time, I became more mindful of privacy and realized that those methods didn’t fully allow me to express the depth of what I wanted to convey. Filmmaking, however, became the perfect medium for translating personal reflections into something both creative and impactful.
My seminal short film, Brave if, which was shot in my hometown of Shanghai, marked a pivotal moment in my journey as a filmmaker. It not only allowed me to express my storytelling passion but also became the foundation of my career. The name “Historia,” originally chosen for the protagonist in Brave if, represents both the beginning of my journey and my commitment to storytelling. After completing the film, I adopted the name as my own, as it reflects my belief in the power of stories to connect deeply with audiences and create lasting meaning.
Through filmmaking, I discovered a purpose that transcends simply recording life—it’s about crafting stories that resonate with others and leave a lasting impact.
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?
In my professional journey, I’ve had the privilege of working on a variety of films that have received recognition in the industry. For example, The Last Butterfly, where I served as the executive producer and marketing producer, was selected for the LA Shorts International Film Festival in 2024, which is an Oscar-qualifying festival. The film also earned several accolades, including the Five Continents International Film Festival Award Winner for Fantastic Short Film, Reale Film Festival – BiMonthly Awards Winner for Best Female Drama, an Honorable Mention at the PULLING FOCUS African American Film Festival of The Quad Cities in the Out of Competition Showcase, and the Athens International Monthly Art Film Festival. Additionally, it won the Award for Short Narrative at the Full Bloom Film Festival, was a Nominee for Best Short Film at the Rome Prisma Film Awards, and received selections as an Official Selection for Best Film (Short) at Cinema Cappuccino, Short Films Big Dreams at the Movies Plus Film Festival, and Best American Short at the Love & Hope International Film Festival in Barcelona, along with others. Although The Last Butterfly isn’t my most recent project, it remains a significant part of my current efforts as I continue to manage its festival run and support its exposure.
Another important project is Smoothie, a short film that won the award for Best Dark Comedy at the Lotus International Film & Script Festival in 2024. The film was a critical success, and it allowed me to showcase my ability to balance dark humor with meaningful storytelling. These projects, along with others like Before Firework, The Gray Dwarf Stars, and Baphomet, highlight my dedication to producing films that challenge conventional narratives and offer fresh perspectives.
One of the most fulfilling aspects of my work is the sense of security I can provide to the directors and teams I work with. Many directors and production offices I’ve collaborated with have expressed that they feel safe and supported when I’m on board, knowing that I can handle any problem that arises. Suzy, an AFI graduate and director of The Last Butterfly, mentioned how much she valued the sense of security I brought to her project. This feedback is incredibly gratifying and is a source of happiness for me, as it reinforces the impact I can make beyond just the creative aspects of filmmaking.
A key project that underscores my commitment to supporting independent filmmakers is ReelRoots, a platform I created and am the sole investor in. ReelRoots is the world’s first product placement exchange designed specifically for indie filmmakers. The platform aims to alleviate financial constraints by connecting filmmakers with brands looking for creative product placements, thus opening new avenues for funding and collaboration.
By democratizing the product placement process, ReelRoots empowers filmmakers to secure the necessary resources to bring their visions to life without compromising their artistic integrity. The platform’s user-friendly interface allows filmmakers to list their projects and receive bids from brands that align with their creative goals. This not only provides financial support but also ensures that product placements can work for even the smallest of productions.
Moreover, ReelRoots offers brands an unparalleled opportunity for small brands to reach consumers without paying the massive amounts of money required to achieve placement in big-budget films. By partnering with indie filmmakers, brands can tap into niche markets and build genuine connections with consumers. This approach stands in stark contrast to traditional advertising methods, which often feel intrusive and inauthentic.
Beyond the aforementioned innovations, my work has been recognized in various film festivals and award circuits, which is a testament to the quality and impact of the projects I’ve been involved in. Brave if was a finalist at the Oniros Film Awards in New York in 2022 and received an honorable mention at the Student World Impact Film Festival in 2023. Another project, The Perfect Smile, a stop-motion animation film I directed and produced, was selected for the Beijing International Film Festival in 2022 and the Student World Impact Film Festival in 2023. Additionally, In Wonderland, where I served as an associate producer, has been an official selection at numerous festivals, including the LA Shorts International Film Festival, Tacoma Film Festival, and the Cleveland International Film Festival, where it won Best Latinx Short in 2024.
As I continue to expand my work and explore new projects, I remain dedicated to the craft of filmmaking and to telling stories that matter. My journey is far from over, and I am excited about the future projects that will allow me to further push the boundaries of storytelling and production. Thank you, Bold Journey Magazine, for allowing me to share my story and the ongoing evolution of my career.
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?
As I reflect on my journey as a filmmaker, I recognize that three qualities have been particularly impactful: adaptability, effective communication, and a sense of humor. These qualities not only shape my approach to filmmaking but also resonate with the spirit of Bold Journey, a magazine that celebrates the courage to navigate one’s path.
Adaptability: In the dynamic world of film production, the ability to adapt is crucial for overcoming unexpected challenges. A significant example of this was during the production of Two Languages. On the day of filming, we faced a major hurdle when our permit to film at a coffee shop was denied. I quickly adapted by sourcing a pizza restaurant as an alternative location within an hour. This swift decision allowed us to stay on schedule while maintaining our creative vision. To cultivate adaptability, I recommend embracing change and being open to new ideas. Engage in brainstorming sessions that allow diverse perspectives to flourish, enhancing your problem-solving skills and encouraging you to think critically under pressure.
Effective Communication: Clear and open communication is essential in film production, where multiple stakeholders are involved. During my time directing Smoothie, I faced significant production challenges, including scheduling conflicts and performance demands. Despite my efforts to maintain effective communication with Leah, the producer, and the team, I found myself too accommodating, which ultimately led to difficulties during the shoot. This experience taught me that effective communication requires not only clarity but also strong leadership. Establishing clear lines of authority helps facilitate collaboration and prevents misunderstandings. For those early in their careers, I advise practicing assertiveness while remaining open to feedback. Building a culture of open dialogue will empower your team and create a more cohesive production environment.
Sense of Humor: Maintaining a sense of humor throughout the filmmaking process is vital, as it can alleviate stress and create a positive atmosphere. The unpredictable nature of film production often leads to challenges that can feel overwhelming. During Smoothie, sharing light-hearted moments with the cast and crew helped us cope with the hurdles we faced, fostering camaraderie and resilience. For emerging filmmakers, I encourage you to embrace humor in your journey. Finding joy in the chaos not only makes the experience more enjoyable but also builds your ability to tackle challenges with a positive mindset.
In conclusion, the journey of filmmaking is filled with obstacles, but embracing adaptability, effective communication, and a sense of humor can pave the way for success. As I continue my journey, I strive to embody these qualities, knowing they will guide me through the complexities of storytelling and production.
What do you do when you feel overwhelmed? Any advice or strategies?
When I feel overwhelmed, I prioritize handling my tasks before allowing myself to relax. In the past, I would cope by drinking or expressing my emotions excessively, but now I’ve learned to control my emotional outbursts. I find that avoiding conversations during overwhelming moments is key; it helps me process my feelings without external pressure.
However, I’ve realized that this can sometimes amplify emotions and lead to misunderstandings, giving others leverage over my feelings. Instead, I focus on activities that help me decompress, like watching funny videos, crying during movies, or exercising, such as skipping rope or using a hula hoop. If time is limited, I concentrate on completing my tasks before resting.
In the past, I often took on more work when feeling overwhelmed, pushing myself harder instead of taking a break. Now, I understand the importance of relaxation and have learned to distance myself from toxic environments, recognizing that choice is more important than effort. I also focus on maintaining a healthy lifestyle through weight loss and eating nutritious foods, as physical lightness contributes to my mental well-being.
Contact Info:
Image Credits
/
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
