Wang Yuanhao: Urban Drifting and Filmmaking Challenges

What are the most formidable challenges inherent to the profession of filmmaking?

At that time, the most difficult challenge the film faced was the epidemic. It was very difficult for us to assemble the crew for shooting, and the shooting budget also increased a lot. Just like the predicament of the protagonist in the film. Later, we managed to complete the shooting by reducing costs through various means, but there were still some shortcomings.

Could you elaborate on the wellspring of your creative inspiration for this particular short film?

The short film ‘Drifting in Beijing’ draws inspiration from real events and documentaries, revolving around the life of tenants in an underground dwelling, narrating the urban wandering of lower-class migrants. The term ‘Beijing Drift’ signifies a sense of drifting in Beijing; it also reflects the choices of the ‘Northern Drift’ population, with the thematic exploration emphasizing the concept of drifting. For young people from small towns across the country, Beijing is a dreamland where one must strive to succeed. Every day, numerous youths from county towns pour in, but does striving really guarantee success? For those drifting in Beijing, a sense of belonging and rootedness is hard to find. The sense of drifting is a common feeling among all Northern drifters.

Could you elucidate on the central thematic underpinning of your film?

The ‘eviction event’ is an inevitable and unresolved contradiction in the process of urbanization. On one hand, old and dangerous buildings pose a threat to residents’ lives and property, while on the other hand, low rents accommodate many Northern drifters. Urban development dictates the clearance of slums, but poverty persists. As the wheels of time roll on, a group of people is knocked down by the era. The film focuses on such marginalized groups, listening to their helplessness in this city. Simultaneously, the film aims for objectivity, presenting the contradictions from both perspectives, attempting to understand this social issue from two angles. Thus, Captain Chen Zhongliang leads the way, reflecting the conflicts and helplessness in urban construction.

How do you navigate the task of strategizing cost-effective promotional efforts when operating within a constrained budget?

Make the production plan as comprehensively as possible

In today's dynamic marketplace, how pivotal do you consider the role of film distribution?

Distribution is very important. Young creators especially need to promote their films to those who want to watch them.

For individuals contemplating the path of self-distribution, what counsel or insights can you offer?

Keep creating diligently and boldly. Come on!

In your estimation, what level of significance do short films hold for aspiring filmmakers seeking to embark on a career in directing?

Short films are an important practice for young directors and also a calling card of their talents.

Reflecting on your professional journey thus far, could you share an instance of the most formidable challenge you encountered and how you surmounted it?

Still insist on writing when the classmates and friends around are changing careers one after another

What, in your view, are the critical factors that contribute to the creation of a cinematic masterpiece?

The solidity of the film script, the aesthetics and scheduling of the director and cinematographer, and the emotional expression of the actors all play decisive roles in the success of the film.