In honour of Pride month, we spoke with Yilun Zhao about her grad film Whispers in the Breeze. It was a true pleasure learning about Yilun's inspirations behind the story and aesthetic, as well as diving into her use of symbolic imagery and its deeper meaning. Continue reading to see what Yilun says about her experience making Whispers in the Breeze, her authentic style of storytelling and much more!
Congratulations on your film Whispers in the Breeze! Please would you be able to share your experience making the film? What was the most exciting aspect of it, something you enjoyed the most during the entire process, and the most challenging part?
Absolutely.
One of the biggest challenges was ensuring that every scene contributed to the story while still being visually engaging. This involved a lot of trial and error, and there were times when I doubted whether we could achieve the desired outcome. However, through the collaborative efforts of everyone involved, we managed to perfectly present both the story and the film’s aesthetics. Despite the difficulties, this journey has been incredibly rewarding and has broadened my perspective as a filmmaker. The experience taught me a great deal about balancing different elements of filmmaking and has ultimately strengthened my skills in both storytelling and visual composition.
Another significant challenge was helping the actresses shape their roles, particularly because they had no prior experience with same-sex emotional relationships. At the beginning of filming, they were somewhat restrained. To address this, I dedicated much time to guiding them in developing a deeper understanding and connection with their characters. We worked extensively on building the background and personality of the protagonists to make the actors feel closer to the characters. This involved enriching the characters' histories and motivations, which helped the actors generate a natural chemistry and bring authenticity to their performances. This process was crucial in creating the genuine and nuanced portrayals that were essential for the film.
Would you be able to share what inspired the story and direction? I enjoyed the use of symbolic imagery such as the amber traffic lights flashing and then turning green, could you share your thoughts and motives behind including those kinds of shots?
This film was inspired by a beautiful poem ‘The Vision' and my own personal journey through vivid dreams. Let's go back a few of years when these incredible dreams began. In each dream, there was a woman who I couldn't see clearly, but we met in different places like in school and a beautiful beach. What started as a chase turned into something magical—a deep connection filled with intense love that went beyond words.
But then came the surprise. She told me we had to maintain a distance because she was my teacher. And just like that, she disappeared from my dreams, leaving a profound emptiness that still echoes today. It felt so real, like a glimpse into a different world where love is unrestricted, and rules are irrelevant. Meanwhile, inspired by Oscar Wilde's reflection on ancient Greece, where mentorship transcended age, I seek to present an unconventional yet profound connection. By examining this theme, the film prompts audiences to reconsider their preconceived notions, encouraging them to embrace the idea that love knows no boundaries and can blossom in unexpected circumstances.
As a member of the LGBTQ community, I understand the challenges of being true to myself, especially within my traditional Chinese family. It is difficult for them to understand how same-sex love happens. This film is my way of bridging that gap by demonstrating the depth and beauty of love that doesn't fit traditional labels. In my previous works, I aimed to tell stories that educated and amplified the voices and experiences of the LGBTQ community. With this film, I want to create an engaging cinematic experience that not only captivates audiences but also encourage empathy and understanding.
I'm happy you noticed some of the small details in the movie. I believe the emotions between women are delicate, and I enjoy designing suggestive shots and nuanced elements. For instance, the changing of traffic lights foreshadows the loosening of the heart of one protagonist, the teacher Louise, and the beginning of hope in Ally's desperate pursuit of love. This symbolizes them breaking through the shackles of their hearts and following their instinctive desires.
Additionally, there are some other symbolic designs in the film. The unique smell that surrounds them throughout the story and the branches of the thuja tree, all subtly imply the inner moods of the protagonists. These details are intentionally crafted to enrich the narrative and provide deeper insights into the characters' emotions and transformations.
What is the most important thing you learnt when making your film?
I think a good team is incredibly important. The collaborative efforts and diverse perspectives within a strong team are crucial to bringing a project to life. Additionally, it's necessary to accept the unexpected and embrace imperfections. These often bring an unexpected beauty to the project, adding layers and depth that might not have been initially planned. Embracing these moments can lead to unique creative opportunities while also improving the overall quality of the film.
It’s great to see that you have worked on a number of projects at London Film School in various roles, would you be able to share how the roles you worked in contrasted and complimented each other and if any of those roles prepared you for being the writer-director of your film, Whispers in the Breeze?
Absolutely. My time at the London Film School provided me with invaluable opportunities to explore different roles within the filmmaking process, including director of photography, director, and production designer. Each role offered unique insights and perspectives, allowing me to gain a deeper understanding of the filmmaking process as a whole. Through these experiences, I discovered my affinity for the roles of production designer and director. While serving in these capacities, I found immense fulfilment in the creative process and the ability to bring imaginative worlds to life.
Upon reflection, I've contemplated the similarities and differences between these roles and why I gravitate towards them. To me, the director is the visionary behind the creation of a virtual world or narrative, tasked with conveying ideas to the audience through visual storytelling elements such as characters, plotlines, and cinematic techniques. Conversely, the art director serves as a crucial collaborator, aiding the director in constructing the envisioned settings and environments. Despite their distinct responsibilities, both roles share a common thread of creativity, which I find deeply fulfilling.
Overall, I thoroughly enjoy the process and outcomes of creative expression, whether it's shaping the overarching vision as a director or bringing intricate details to life as a production designer. My background as a production designer played a significant role in shaping the visual aspects of 'Whispers In The Breeze'. I had precise requirements for the shooting location, props, and costumes, all of which were crucial in bringing the story to life. When scouting for locations, I prioritized beauty and texture, ensuring that each setting complemented the narrative and added depth to the storytelling.
Similarly, I meticulously selected and arranged props to seamlessly integrate them into the film's aesthetic, paying close attention to even the most inconspicuous details. The costumes were another essential aspect that I approached with meticulous care. I collaborated closely with the costume designer to ensure that each garment reflected the character's personality, family background, and occupation. Every piece of clothing was tailored to the actor, adding authenticity and depth to their portrayal. During the filming process, I maintained strict standards for the composition and appearance of each shot. Drawing on my experience as a director of cinematography, I had a clear vision for the film's visual style and consistently pursued stable, high-quality images.
My goal was to create a comfortable viewing experience for the audience, ensuring that every frame contributed to the overall narrative and aesthetic coherence of the film. Reflecting on my past works, I've always prioritized the visual aspects of storytelling, striving to create immersive worlds that resonate with viewers on both an emotional and aesthetic level.
Do you have any new projects you are writing-directing or working on in a different role that you’re excited about?
Currently, I'm in the process of writing my new script, which will be a feature-length film focusing on the LGBTQ community. The story will follow a girl's journey over ten years as she navigates love and sexuality within minority groups. It's a deeply personal and challenging project for me, and I'm incredibly excited about the creative possibilities it presents. While still in the early stages of development, I'm fully committed to exploring the complexities and nuances of these themes and portraying them authentically on screen.
It would be great to learn about your experience at LFS and how it has shaped you as a filmmaker. What was your favourite part of being a film student and the best thing you learnt?
My years at LFS have been transformative in my filmmaking journey. They have provided me with a comprehensive understanding of the filmmaking process, transitioning me from a mere "film lover" to a filmmaker. The rigorous curriculum and hands-on experience have been instrumental in shaping my approach to storytelling and visual expression.
Through extensive shooting practice and experimentation, I have begun to carve out my unique style. While I am still in the process of exploration and discovery, my time at LFS has helped me gain clarity on what I truly aspire to achieve as a filmmaker. This newfound understanding has enabled me to define a concrete career plan and pursue it with determination. Overall, my experience at LFS has been invaluable in guiding me towards my creative goals and aspirations.
What words of wisdom would you give to an LFS student?
I would encourage aspiring filmmakers to cherish their time in school. It's a unique opportunity to learn, grow, and build connections within the industry. Socializing and networking with peers, faculty, and professionals can open doors to collaborations and opportunities that may shape your future career.
Additionally, it's essential to stay true to your ideas and convictions. While it's valuable to seek feedback and input from others, it's equally important to remain firm in your creative vision and not be easily swayed by external factors. Trusting your instincts and staying committed to your artistic voice can lead to authentic and impactful storytelling.
Photo credit:
Whispers in the Breeze, writer-director: Yilun Zhao