We recently connected with Historia Yi Wang and have shared our conversation below.
Historia Yi, appreciate you making time for us and sharing your wisdom with the community. So many of us go through similar pain points throughout our journeys and so hearing about how others overcame obstacles can be helpful. One of those struggles is keeping creativity alive despite all the stresses, challenges and problems we might be dealing with. How do you keep your creativity alive?
To keep my creativity alive, I draw from a variety of influences and activities that stimulate different aspects of my mind. Filmmaking, for example, is a deeply immersive experience that blends art and technology in ways that constantly push me to innovate. My work, especially with Big Carrot Production, is about combining traditional storytelling with cutting-edge digital tools like CGI and virtual reality. This balance of the old and the new keeps me engaged, as I’m always learning and experimenting with new methods of conveying stories in unique, engaging ways.
But I don’t stop there—I also focus on building ecosystems that nurture creativity. My platform, Reel Roots, is not just about financing films; it’s about connecting filmmakers to emerging opportunities and pushing the boundaries of how films can be produced and funded. This innovative approach keeps my creativity fresh, because it’s not just about making films; it’s about rethinking the entire filmmaking process and empowering others to do the same.
I also keep my mind active by being part of conversations that challenge the status quo. My role as a judge at the upcoming United Nations’ Media, Arts, Filmmaking, and Technology Symposium is an example of this. It’s an opportunity to step outside the traditional film world, engage with new ideas, and stay plugged into the evolving intersection of creativity, technology, and culture.
Ultimately, I stay creative by embracing the synergy between diverse fields—cinema, technology, and human connection. Each of these influences feeds the other, keeping my passion and curiosity alive as I continue to break new ground in the film industry. Creativity thrives when you allow it to flow freely across different domains and perspectives, and that’s something I strive to do every day.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
I’m the founder and driving force behind Big Carrot Production, an independent film company that blends traditional storytelling with cutting-edge digital technologies. I believe deeply in the power of cinema to bridge cultural divides, create empathy, and spark social change. Our films are immersive experiences that blend genres and push the boundaries of what’s possible with technology like CGI and virtual reality. I’m not just interested in creating films; I’m focused on reshaping the entire filmmaking process.
What excites me most is the intersection of creativity and technology—how these two worlds can work together to create something truly innovative. We live in an age where storytelling can reach audiences in ways we’ve never seen before, and the tools to create these stories are more accessible than ever. This presents an incredible opportunity to democratize filmmaking and give voices to underrepresented communities across the globe. I’m proud of the work we’ve done at Big Carrot Production to open doors for emerging filmmakers, but what’s equally important to me is how we’re pushing boundaries and exploring new ways to tell stories.
One of the projects I’m most excited about is Reel Roots, a digital platform that’s revolutionizing how films are funded and how brands engage with independent cinema. Through Reel Roots, we’ve created a system that connects independent filmmakers with smaller, emerging brands through a product placement bidding system. It’s a game-changer for both filmmakers, who get access to much-needed funding, and brands, who get authentic exposure to a targeted audience in trending films—all at a fraction of the cost of traditional advertising.
This approach speaks to my broader vision of creating an ecosystem that not only elevates independent film but also brings more inclusivity and diversity into the creative space. It’s about breaking down barriers—whether they’re financial, geographical, or industry-driven—and making space for fresh, bold voices.
Beyond that, I’m particularly proud of my role as a judge at the upcoming 2025 United Nations’ Media, Arts, Filmmaking, and Technology Symposium. It’s an incredible honor to be part of a platform that brings together leaders from around the world to discuss how creativity and technology can be leveraged for social good. This event, akin to South by Southwest (SXSW) but with a focus on humanitarian efforts, is an opportunity to learn from and collaborate with some of the most innovative minds in the world.
As for the future, we’re always looking ahead. There are new films on the horizon, and I’m exploring even deeper ways to integrate immersive technologies into our storytelling, pushing boundaries that have never been tested before. At Big Carrot Production, we see technology not as a tool but as an essential part of the creative process, and this will continue to drive the direction of our work.
To me, my work is about pushing the envelope, whether in film, technology, or creating a new way for filmmakers to connect with the world. Every day is an opportunity to break new ground and build something that leaves a lasting impact. The most exciting part of it all is knowing that we’re just getting started—and the best is yet to come.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Looking back on my journey, I would say that the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in shaping my path are:
1. Creative Vision and Storytelling
The ability to see beyond what’s currently possible and to imagine new ways of telling stories has been the core of my work. At the heart of filmmaking is storytelling—it’s about creating experiences that resonate with people on an emotional level. But what’s been truly exciting for me is combining traditional narrative techniques with modern technologies like CGI and virtual reality to immerse audiences in ways they’ve never experienced before.
Advice for those early in their journey:
To develop your creative vision, immerse yourself in as many different forms of art and storytelling as possible. Whether it’s literature, music, theater, or digital media, exposure to various creative processes will expand your perspective. And most importantly, practice—make your own work, even if it’s imperfect. The more you experiment and create, the sharper your sense of what resonates with others will become. Don’t be afraid to break the mold and try something new.
2. Technical Expertise and Innovation
While creativity is essential, understanding the tools that can bring your vision to life is just as important. In my case, this meant learning how to leverage technology—whether through CGI, virtual reality, or new filmmaking software—to push boundaries. What excites me about today’s world is how accessible these tools are, which makes it possible for independent filmmakers to create at the highest level without needing a blockbuster budget.
Advice for those early in their journey:
Invest time in learning the technical skills that can enhance your creative work. If you’re in film, this could mean learning about new production techniques, digital editing, or even the basics of programming or AI tools. For anyone in a creative field, being comfortable with the technology that’s shaping your industry is becoming increasingly important. You don’t have to be an expert right away, but never stop learning. Stay curious and experiment with new tools to see what works best for your vision.
3. Building Community and Collaboration
One of the most powerful aspects of my journey has been the community I’ve built around my work. At Big Carrot Production, we foster a collaborative environment where diverse perspectives come together to shape our projects. I’ve learned that filmmaking—and, really, any creative endeavor—thrives on collaboration. It’s not just about you as an individual; it’s about creating space for others to bring their ideas to the table. This is especially true when trying to break into industries that can often be insular, like film or tech.
Advice for those early in their journey:
Network, build relationships, and find your tribe. Surround yourself with people who challenge you, inspire you, and share your passion for your craft. Start small—join communities, attend events, participate in forums, and collaborate on projects. The more you connect with others, the more you’ll learn from them and the stronger your own work will become. Be open to feedback, but also be willing to share your own insights and ideas. Building your community is as essential to success as developing your craft.
Ultimately, I believe the combination of vision, technical know-how, and community has been the foundation of my journey. These elements work together to make something truly unique and impactful. For those just starting, don’t be afraid to lean into the unknown and take risks. Creative careers are often non-linear, and success rarely happens overnight, but if you nurture these qualities over time, you’ll not only grow as a creator but also build the kind of meaningful relationships and opportunities that can take your work to the next level. Keep learning, keep creating, and never lose sight of why you started.
One of our goals is to help like-minded folks with similar goals connect and so before we go we want to ask if you are looking to partner or collab with others – and if so, what would make the ideal collaborator or partner?
Yes, absolutely! I am always excited to explore new opportunities for collaboration, both with Big Carrot Production and through Reel Roots. The intersection of creativity and technology is where the most exciting, boundary-pushing work is happening right now, and I’m eager to partner with individuals and organizations that share this vision. There are several areas where collaboration is a natural fit, and I’m open to working with passionate and innovative people from a variety of backgrounds.
1. Filmmakers & Creators (Big Carrot Production)
At Big Carrot Production, we’re constantly seeking to amplify diverse voices and work with filmmakers who are pushing the envelope in terms of both storytelling and technology. Whether you’re an experienced director or an up-and-coming talent, if you have a compelling story to tell and a desire to experiment with new technologies—whether it’s through CGI, virtual reality, immersive media, or non-linear storytelling—I’d love to connect.
We’re also keen to collaborate with those who are passionate about exploring social issues or creating films that have the potential to spark global conversations. Big Carrot is all about blending artistry with impact, so if you have a project that aligns with that mission, let’s talk.
2. Brands & Marketers (Reel Roots)
If you’re a small or emerging brand looking to connect with an engaged, film-savvy audience, Reel Roots offers an innovative way to do that. Through our platform, filmmakers can connect with brands for authentic product placement opportunities. Brands can access an untapped, cost-effective way to get exposure through trending, independent films without the heavy budget requirements of Hollywood productions. We’re also very open to partnerships with brand storytellers, advertising agencies, or anyone who wants to explore how product placement and creative storytelling can be seamlessly integrated.
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