Director Zhu Xinyi’s short film Grace Period made waves at the Beijing International Film Festival this week, blending sci-fi elements with a deeply personal narrative. The film follows a young female screenwriter navigating external pressures—a story Zhu says mirrors her own journey. 🌱
“I hope everyone who sees this short film will be braver than me,” Zhu told CGTN, revealing how the project emerged from personal struggles. A UCLA psychology graduate who once aimed to become a psychiatrist, she found her true passion in film clubs, experimenting with scripts and production design. 🎨
Sci-fi isn’t just a genre for Zhu—it’s a sanctuary. “Sci-fi movies bring me peace of mind,” she shared, highlighting how the genre’s imaginative scope helps her tackle real-world themes. Her shift from mental health studies to film resonates with Gen Z’s embrace of unconventional career paths. 💥
For aspiring creators, Zhu’s message is clear: self-belief trumps external noise. As Asian cinema gains global momentum, stories like Grace Period spotlight the power of authentic storytelling. 🌍
