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Ming, Filmmaker at Humanist Films: Advize Career Interview
A winding path from English literature and advertising copywriting to filmmaking at Humanist Films, a career journey involved mastering technical skills like cinematography and post-production, coupled with crucial leadership and communication abilities.
The work is multifaceted, juggling pre-production, shooting, and post-production simultaneously while securing funding and navigating distribution.
Despite challenges like frequent rejection, the fulfillment of creating impactful documentaries that resonate with viewers outweighs setbacks.
Mentorship and fostering inclusivity are central, a testament to a unique artistic voice developed through dedication and a holistic approach to filmmaking.
Aspiring filmmakers can gain entry through internships or as PAs, building portfolios and networking to advance.
The key is developing a unique voice, honing skills, and embracing the collaborative spirit of storytelling to make something from nothing.
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Ming Lai
Filmmaker
Humanist Films
UCLA
CSULB, M.A., English
English
Arts, Entertainment & Media
Creative
None Applicable
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Career Path of a Filmmaker at Humanist Films
Ming's career path to becoming a filmmaker at Humanist Films involved a winding journey starting with an English degree and master's, followed by valuable experience "learning how to make commercials" as a copywriter in advertising. This advertising experience, coupled with further technical film training at UCLA Extension and short film creation, eventually led to producing and directing commercials, culminating in Ming's current work with feature documentaries.
Main Responsibilities of a Filmmaker at Humanist Films
Ming, a filmmaker at Humanist Films, wears many hats, serving as producer, writer, and director, leading projects "from development to distribution." Their work centers on "actualizing an idea," transforming a "fragile concept" into a tangible product shared globally.
A Day in the Life of a Filmmaker at Humanist Films
A filmmaker's day is a whirlwind of multitasking, juggling "three balls in the air" simultaneously: shooting, post-production, and pre-production on different projects. Ming's work constantly involves "talking with the team," securing funding, and navigating distribution, reflecting the multifaceted nature of the filmmaking profession.
Most Important Skills For A Filmmaker At Humanist Films
Ming, a filmmaker at Humanist Films, emphasizes that filmmaking demands a blend of "highly technical skills," including writing, cinematography, and post-production expertise, alongside crucial "human skills" such as leadership, communication, and teamwork, noting that "it's really about storytelling and creating impact to help others." The ability to inspire collaboration and share "the joy of creating something" is as vital as mastering technical aspects of the craft.
Favorite Parts of Being a Filmmaker at Humanist Films
Ming, a filmmaker at Humanist Films, finds joy in the entire filmmaking process, from "making something from nothing" to the communal experience of watching films in a theater. The ability of documentaries, in particular, to create positive impact and "help others" is a key source of fulfillment in their career.
Biggest Challenges Faced By A Filmmaker At Humanist Films
Ming's greatest challenge as an independent filmmaker is consistently facing rejection, from funding applications to film festival submissions; however, the joy of filmmaking itself and the positive feedback from viewers who find their work valuable ultimately outweighs these setbacks, fostering a stronger, more self-assured artistic voice. The most rewarding aspect of their career is receiving simple expressions of gratitude, such as "thank you for making this film," because it validates the importance of their work beyond commercial success or critical acclaim.
Favorite Parts Of Working In The Film Industry As A Filmmaker
Ming, a filmmaker at Humanist Films, finds the most fulfilling aspect of their career to be "making something from nothing" and "telling powerful stories" through collaboration with a talented team. The ultimate reward, however, is the profound gratitude expressed by viewers who feel inspired and connected, making the entire filmmaking process "really all about gratitude."
What Type Of Person Thrives In The Filmmaking Industry, According To A Filmmaker At Humanist Films
Ming, a filmmaker at Humanist Films, identifies "very talented" and "hardworking" individuals as thriving in the industry, acknowledging that while skill and dedication are crucial, "a fair amount of luck" also plays a significant role in success. The key, therefore, is to cultivate the right conditions—both personally, by surrounding oneself with support and working on worthwhile projects, and professionally, by honing skills to capitalize on opportunities when they arise.
What A Filmmaker At Humanist Films Wishes They Had Known Before Entering the Filmmaking Industry
Ming, a filmmaker at Humanist Films, advises aspiring filmmakers to "learn every trade craft," echoing Akira Kurosawa's belief that a director should understand every army role. This holistic approach, exemplified by independent photojournalists who "tell amazing stories" solo, allows filmmakers to be effective leaders, even working independently, and to produce high-quality work.
Entry-Level Positions For Aspiring Filmmakers
Entry-level filmmakers can gain experience through internships or as production assistants (PAs), performing tasks like "getting coffee or arranging chairs," but using this "inside look into the industry" to learn various filmmaking aspects and build a portfolio of personal projects to showcase increasing responsibility and skills. This proactive approach, combined with networking, allows advancement from PA to roles like production coordinator, reflecting the industry's willingness to nurture talent.
Significant Career Lesson From A Filmmaker At Humanist Films
Ming's most significant career lesson centers on the importance of developing a unique voice as a filmmaker, emphasizing that "your own voice is very, very unique". This process takes time, dedication ("the 10,000 hours plus"), and the courage to assert one's creative vision, ultimately leading to a fulfilling career as a distinct individual, rather than a mere imitation of established masters.
College Experiences That Helped a Filmmaker at Humanist Films Succeed
Ming's UCLA English major provided invaluable skills for a filmmaking career, "learning how they were doing it" and translating that knowledge into their own storytelling. This strong writing foundation, crucial for communication in business and filmmaking, allowed Ming to use "writing skills...the most valuable skills" in all aspects of their work, from scriptwriting to marketing.
How Identity Has Influenced a Filmmaker's Career at Humanist Films
Ming's journey as an Asian American filmmaker highlights the lack of representation they faced early in their career, noting "very few Asian American filmmakers" existed as role models. To address this, Ming actively mentors younger generations, aiming to provide the guidance and knowledge they lacked, empowering aspiring filmmakers and fostering a more inclusive industry through education and advocacy.
Advizer Personal Links
humanistfilms.com, craftofspeed.com, visionsofwarriors.com
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