QUESTION#1: What excited you the most when making this film?: The most talented cast and crew! The cast also happens to be my friends of many years. To have them live out a story that I've written, that takes place in locations that are meaningful to me, was tremendous and magical.

QUESTION#2: What was the most significant film you've seen AT THE THEATER in 2024, and how did it influence your filmmaking?: I saw this intensely gripping Norwegian short at Palm Springs ShortFest. It is called, After Dark. It took me by surprise when the film ended, because I had forgotten that I was watching a short. I wished it was longer, and couldn't focus on the other shorts that followed. I still think about its lessons on storytelling - the importance of efficiency and maximum impact.

QUESTION#3: What's an obvious and not-so-obvious question someone might ask about your film?: Obvious: "Are you an international adoptee?" Or "Is this a true story?" The answers are no and no.
Not-so-obvious: I haven't been asked one so far. I hope someone does at Borrego Springs!

QUESTION#4: A magic movie genie is giving you an unlimited budget for your next production! However, you're only allowed to use it on either "above line" or "below line" resouces. Which do you choose and why?: Below the line, always. In my world, the 'above the line' people are typically me, myself and I, and my talented friends who will fully commit to a good project expecting excellent 'below the line' crew in return. But seriously though, what kind of genie only offers a half of the funds needed? I'd look for another genie.

QUESTION#5: What is it about your current movie that will influence your next film?: Excellent execution of a compelling story is everything. The rest is fluff.

Social media tags to share with our readers: @miyu.creator @goahmovie

5Q's w/: MiYu "Go Ah (Orphan)" Writer, Producer