Innovative Narratives: An Interview with filmmaker Sitong Cao

In Brooklyn's vibrant creative hub, filmmaker Sitong Cao is making her mark with innovative storytelling and experimental narratives. Drawing inspiration from theater and visual arts, Sitong crafts films that blur the lines between reality and fiction. She uses cinema as a medium for profound social commentary, delving into the depths of human experience. Her goal is to bring thought-provoking and impactful films to audiences worldwide. In a recent interview, Sitong shared her insights on filmmaking, her creative process, and the inspirations behind her work.

Q: Tell us about yourself.

A: I am a Brooklyn-based film producer, living with my two lovely cats. In addition to producing films, I work full-time in theatre and occasionally write and direct my own stories. My passion lies in creating experimental narratives and documentaries. I am dedicated to exploring the vast possibilities of storytelling and visual arts, with the goal of bringing untold stories to a wider audience.

Image: https://lh7-rt.googleusercontent.com/docsz/AD_4nXcBRfKhndJgtYYaf9s0YZxZfWBkKpuHk8F2bInqhTwPeRvlitsz5p-zVdUPA7QfDTm8kBL5T46nom_kfBzh-JijK-lPGLp3Rh_qyRfRJ4nBVTtA6A40L4yE3Lys-KTwY4Fh0mTNnOYQe8PZ-B4HN87FilMb?key=d0P1LVNzfplvH6AeKNStjg

Q: To you, what makes a good Film?

A: A good film has something to say. It feels fresh and makes me think, "Wow, films can be like this." I still remember the first time I saw the French movie Fat Girl; my mind was blown away. Director Catherine Breillat uses her lens with such precision, like a scalpel, employing exact visual storytelling to dissect subtle human emotions and nature. Another example is Trouble Every Day. The metaphor behind this seemingly crazy story is so amazing and accurate. Films like these show the power of cinema to convey profound messages and evoke strong reactions

Q: What are some of your favorite projects you've worked on, and why?

A; One of my favorite projects is Blooming, which was a true passion project. I created the stop-motion sequences entirely by myself using my phone. It was a lot of fun and allowed me to explore my love for visual arts in a very hands-on way. Another favorite is Observando, where the process was entirely different. There was no clear boundary between narrative and documentary; we created situations for the actors and let them improvise. I spent two weeks working closely with everyone involved. I love the saying that film is a mirror of life, reflecting humanity, and this experience truly embodied that philosophy.

Image: https://lh7-rt.googleusercontent.com/docsz/AD_4nXdTWA-CWnm10500PdM-BbxLzXQ0cCzaxK5QxZfk-UAQ_NbymkV5Q7_PkRZmpn7VmM-hxVRmd2l47MHoFYCxvE-v31xx9Wgl2d8m-Twjouz_lhqQCP0HoTPUoH_GQ2NftsD4TB8Pob0BAQnpwokoScnvdKTL?key=d0P1LVNzfplvH6AeKNStjg

Q: Can you share a memorable collaboration experience and its impact on your work?

A: One memorable collaboration was when I produced Big Trouble in Little America. This project involved coordinating four different stories, each with its own genre, like sketches. The challenge was to make each story distinct yet harmonious within the overall film. Working closely with everyone on that project taught me a great deal about coordination and creativity. It also inspired me to tell bolder, more personal stories and to explore new ways of storytelling.

Q: Your films often delve into complex themes. What drives your choice of subjects?

A: I am driven by a passion to speak up for underrepresented groups, minorities, and untold stories. I believe that film has the power to give a voice to those who are often unheard and to shine a light on issues that are frequently overlooked. Additionally, film offers a vast array of forms and techniques, providing unlimited ways to tell a story. This versatility allows me to explore and experiment with different narrative structures and artistic approaches, creating films that not only entertain but also inspire change and foster a deeper understanding of diverse perspectives and experiences.

Q: How would you describe your creative process when developing a new film project?

A: Inspiration often comes to me in various forms - it could be a word, an object, or a simple story from everyday life. My creative process begins with a vague idea of what I want to create. From there, I dig deeper, sometimes brainstorming with other artists to expand and refine the concept. I consider the inspiration behind the idea and explore how storytelling can enhance and strengthen it, ultimately aiming to convey my thoughts and vision to the audience in a compelling and impactful way.

Image: https://lh7-rt.googleusercontent.com/docsz/AD_4nXfH5f5uFhBQdL0JiXsTrGLW0RmZIXnHkG_1V7QDKgJxX6cV3CAVqH7ZdCrXfPG0gwCMcgfUh0JGElOEYhcfiJhz1EeDJsravEfkOC04_vUWL6sSmIl3NYbT_qDJta-hDgz1TJlH3czZ4kxCQoptR__2PDc?key=d0P1LVNzfplvH6AeKNStjg

Q: What inspired the unique narrative structure in your latest film?

A: I am deeply inspired by the experimental and the challenging, always eager to explore the possibilities of storytelling. In my latest film, we focus on a very specific and rarely seen group, tackling a sensitive topic that I can't fully disclose yet. The narrative structure is designed to blur the lines between reality and illusion, reflecting the main character's delusional state and emotional challenges. This approach allows us to delve deeper into the character's psyche, creating a powerful and immersive experience for the audience.

Q: What is your strongest genre in creative work?

A: My strongest genres in creative work are experimental, documentary, and narrative. I thrive in exploring unconventional storytelling techniques, delving into real-life events with a documentary approach, and crafting compelling narratives that resonate with audiences. Through these genres, I aim to bring untold stories and underrepresented perspectives to a wider audience, ensuring their voices are heard and their experiences are shared.

Q: How do you handle challenges or setbacks during the filmmaking process?

A: In filmmaking, challenges and setbacks are inevitable. First and foremost, being fully prepared is crucial, but even with the best preparation, unexpected issues can arise. As a producer, I've faced countless challenges and learned the importance of quickly coming up with solutions. For example, during the production of Thus They Spoke, we were filming in the mountains on a cold winter night when both of our production designers quit unexpectedly. I had to step in and take on multiple roles at the last minute. As a producer, it's essential to adapt to unforeseen circumstances and ensure that the director's vision is realized smoothly, on time, and within budget.

Q: How do you balance your artistic vision with practical constraints like budget and time?

A: I follow one fundamental rule: budget, time, and quality - in most cases, you can only fully achieve two out of the three. To navigate this, I prioritize and make strategic decisions based on the project's needs. For instance, if budget and time are fixed, I find creative solutions to maintain quality within those limits. During the production of Thus They Spoke, we faced tight budget constraints and a challenging filming schedule. By carefully planning and optimizing resources, we managed to deliver a high-quality film without compromising the artistic vision. Flexibility and problem-solving are key, ensuring that the core essence of the project remains intact while adapting to practical realities.

Image: https://lh7-rt.googleusercontent.com/docsz/AD_4nXddeca2PDKI30N32Ek-xdsmCI_HxjYFqmccVTMYNKA_nNvxm1bia3TSvN_2MS419h_9PLXX32tetAMNwSumHlBzSnOdqq34ZTIy7j7nszjJKtUjHeCimlOiuIi1EQGGnWxLS3rIWLnPq6z4mbrtOCOiex4?key=d0P1LVNzfplvH6AeKNStjg

Q: What advice would you give to aspiring filmmakers just starting out?

A: My advice to aspiring filmmakers is to never give up. Filmmaking is a challenging and often lengthy journey, but the sense of accomplishment when you see your story come to life makes it all worthwhile. Remember that you are not alone in this journey; you are collaborating with other talented and passionate individuals to create something truly special.

It's important to be persistent and resilient. There will be obstacles and setbacks, but each challenge is an opportunity to learn and grow. Surround yourself with a supportive network of peers and mentors who can offer guidance and encouragement. Be open to feedback and always strive to improve your craft.

Additionally, never stop exploring and experimenting. The film industry is constantly evolving, and staying curious and innovative will set you apart. Whether it's through developing new storytelling techniques or embracing emerging technologies, keep pushing the boundaries of your creativity.

Finally, stay true to your vision and the stories you want to tell. Authenticity resonates with audiences, and your unique perspective is your greatest asset. Embrace the journey, stay committed, and keep telling the stories that matter to you.

Q: Regarding the future, what are your plans in the realm of film?

A: In the future, I plan to continue working on a diverse range of projects, pushing the boundaries of storytelling and visual arts. I am currently working on my own narrative short and a feature documentary, both of which are deeply personal and reflect my commitment to exploring complex themes and underrepresented stories. My goal is to create impactful films that resonate with audiences and inspire change.

Additionally, I aim to collaborate with other talented filmmakers and artists, fostering a creative environment that encourages innovation and experimentation. I am also interested in exploring new technologies and techniques to enhance my storytelling capabilities. Ultimately, I want to contribute to the film industry by producing high-quality, thought-provoking content that challenges conventions and offers fresh perspectives.

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