SAINT, 10min., USA, Dance
Directed by Yi - Han Audrey Chou
Saint seeks to present a process of evolution that is about spiritual change, technology, and identity of a human being. Through the transformation in 3 layers of clothings, which represent the past, present, and future in time, the identity of the dancer was exposed through the generating and regenerating of visual and movement languages; a 15 mins dance performance with a storyline will be made to present the story of this process, leading the audience to search their personal identity and questioning about the direction of the world through presentations of movement and visual language while observing the change that is happening during the performance.

Get to know the filmmaker:

1. What motivated you to make this film?
This film is actually a really important part to showcase the wholeness of my Thesis at school.
I am a Fashion Design major and dance minor, and have been in love with film as a medium for a long time. Spending alot of time studying film and choreography along side of my major, I always think that these two mediums is the most important element to present both the garments and my concept as a whole.

2. From the idea to the finished product, how long did it take for you to make this film?
I will say from research it is 1 year and a half, but it actually took more time for the development of skills plus the initial idea which is from a curated exhibition I did 5 years ago when I was 18.

3. How would you describe your film in two words!?
Philosophy and life

4. What was the biggest obstacle you faced in completing this film?

I am not a film major, nor a dance major, which I faced alot of challenges while trying to find the people I will be able to work with, trust, and also who allow me to have the chance to produce this film. I have reached out to alot of people for this film and also facing hard times in financial situations while producing this film. But I am glad that I still met people who will be able to support me along the way, and became friends with me for this film.

5. What were your initial reactions when watching the audience talking about your film in the feedback video?
I am actually surprised that people like it and will be able to understand a little about my film, I was worried about the conceptual elements and also think that there is alot of imperfection that I was facing while working on this film. I really value all the feedback and felt good with th positive energy. I hope with this project, I will be able to move on to direct and produce more and more films in the future.

6. When did you realize that you wanted to make films?
In highschool, when I was 16.

7. What film have you seen the most in your life?
In the Mood for Love

8. What other elements of the festival experience can we and other festivals implement to satisfy you and help you further your filmmaking career?

I would love to know if there is an online group chat or community that I can join as a filmmaker, will love to connect with different creatives internationally!

9. You submitted to the festival via FilmFreeway. How has your experiences been working on the festival platform site?

I think filmfreeway is a really organized and professional platform for film submission, and my experience is really good so far!

10. What is your favorite meal?
Sushi, forever!

11. What is next for you? A new film?
I am currently working with my animation team for a 3 min short, and will be also working on future projects as I attend graduate school in September at NYU / ITP.