From Lens to Screen: A Journey Through Harry Chen’s Cinematic Odyssey
One does not have to be a storyteller by profession to share a gripping and emotional tale. However, it does take a special kind of filmmaker to translate those stories into masterpieces on the big screen.
“In the film and TV industry, the blend of artistry and technology is reshaping storytelling,” remarks Xingyu “Harry” Chen, an up-and-coming filmmaker. His sentiment embodies the essence of a cinematic path marked by creativity, ingenuity, and a strong dedication to exceeding boundaries.
From the views through Chen’s lens to the output on screen, countless hours are invested into the production and post-production process. Every frame matters.
Through the Lens of a Master Filmmaker: A Genre-Bender
Chen’s growth in filmmaking is nothing short of remarkable. With an MFA in Film Production – Directing from Loyola Marymount University and a B.A. in Film and Digital Media from UC Santa Cruz, his educational foundation formed the groundwork for his thriving career. Moreover, his bicultural background – having lived in the United States for almost a decade while originally from China – has endowed him with a unique perspective, allowing him to approach different topics with a deep sense of inclusiveness. Geared with the tools to bloom into a top director and filmmaker of this generation, Chen hit the ground running and has no intention of slowing down anytime soon.
Chen is known for his directorial skills and filmmaking craft, especially in the acclaimed short film “Attached” (2023). The genre-defying masterpiece, streaming on Omeleto, captivated audiences and critics alike with its thought-provoking narrative and a distinct touch of body horror. His latest, highly original film “Flatulence: The Origin”, a corporate sci-fi dark comedy about someone who can kill people with his farts, is currently in the festival circuit. It has already gained recognition by receiving official selections from the LA Shorts International Film Festival (Oscar and BAFTA Qualifying) and Mammoth Film Festival. As a long term fan of both American horror films and comedies, Chen is not shying away from the art of bending and blending genres, Chen’s ability to use diverse tropes while maintaining a cohesive artistic vision speaks volumes about his creative storytelling depth.
Every Angle of Film: A Renaissance Man of Cinematography
In addition to directing, Chen has worked various roles in film production and post-production. As a freelance colorist, who works closely and directly with the Director of Photography (DP) and directors, he designs, enhances and adjusts the color and visual tone of footage to achieve the desired aesthetic and mood of the final film. Utilizing his extensive knowledge in color science, he ensures consistency and quality throughout the finishing of the films.
When not directing his own project on set, Chen works as a digital imaging technician (DIT), who wrangles large amounts of footage and data, overseeing camera settings, signal flow and image quality, and live color grading. He also worked extensively as a unit still photographer on various productions to create high quality behind-the-scenes content for marketing. He brings comprehensive knowledge to every project, and constantly sharpens his tools by working and learning from the best. Thanks to his multi-branched skill set, Chen sees every angle of the filmmaking process. His meticulous attention to detail and technical expertise ensures that each frame is rigorously crafted, elevating the visual narrative to new heights.
In the digital era, streaming platforms have emerged as the primary avenue for content consumption, reshaping film and television production distribution platforms. The advent of virtual production, augmented reality (AR), and artificial intelligence (AI) has revamped filmmaking practices. Chen’s embrace of these up-to-the-minute technologies emphasizes his goal of pushing the envelope of creativity and narrative immersion. Whether he is experimenting with immersive VR experiences or anchoring on AI-driven tools for post-production, Chen’s signature brand of film is always wrapped in innovation.
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Rolling the Credits: A Sequel in Harry Chen’s Film Career
Chen aims to create films that connect in a way that feels both universal and personal. “When it comes down to it, it’s not just about the technology or the accolades,” he muses. “It’s about the human connection forged through storytelling—a timeless art form that continues to inspire and unite us all.”
Xingyu “Harry” Chen’s love for cinema serves as a reminder of the enduring power of imagination and the limitless possibilities of the entertainment industry.
Website: xingyu-chen.com
Instagram: @stareo.xy
