← Interviews & ReviewsInterview

INTERVIEW

VIVIAN TSANG - INTERVIEW

Originally from Hong Kong, I moved to Manchester three years ago. I hold a Bachelor’s degree in animation, with minors in photography, film, and television, studied in Hong Kong and the United States. Currently pursuing an MA in Filmmaking with a focus on documentaries, I’ve completed two shorts: Andrea’s Experience with Yoga Practice and The New Immigrants - Hong Kongers. I’m passionate about exploring diverse film styles to enhance my directing and technical skills while sharing my work with audiences.

Do you prefer Comedy or Drama?


I prefer comedy because it brings more positive energy into my life, especially when I’m facing obstacles. Comedy fills me with happiness, and movies like the Bridget Jones series never fail to cheer me up.


Life imitates Art or Art imitates Life?


I believe art imitates life. As a documentary filmmaker, I often capture and adapt stories and life experiences from ordinary people, drawing inspiration from real-life events. To me, documentaries must keep authenticity to connect with audiences and leave a lasting impression. By embracing a unique and modern digital art form, documentary filmmaking can effectively share emotions and creativity, creating a strong connection with the audience.


Which is the best Moment on set?


I think it’s usually toward the end of filming that the producer gives flowers to the actors to congratulate them on completing the project. Seeing the actors’ sense of achievement makes me feel good and happy. That kind of encouragement motivates the actors to work hard and keep pushing forward for their next performance.

Did anyone ever tell you weren't good enough?


Yes, of course I did. I won’t let the words of others discourage me. Instead, I will turn the negative voices of discouragement into positive motivation. I’ll focus on the lovely people around me who offer positive feedback and believe in my abilities. By transforming negativity into positive energy, I’ll trust in my ability to achieve my goals and let those positive thoughts guide me in my everyday life.


How can you stay focused on your goal?


I will set a goal and will always remind myself day of day. Try to achieve short term first, then think of the long time goal and stick with it for a long period of time.


Have you ever had a breakdown because of your Job?


No, I don’t. For schoolwork, I did. I was under pressure, working with many deadlines and trying to complete all the assignments at the same time. I studied at an art school based on the American university system, in a very harsh and competitive environment. With critiques from teachers and students, I constantly pushed myself to do better, not wanting to let people down and worrying about graduation.


Talent is a blessing or a curse?


I believe it’s a blessing to have talents. What’s important is knowing how to use them and finding different ways to develop your skills.


What would you like to improve about yourself as an actor/director/screenplayer?


I should push myself to be more active, step out of my comfort zone, challenge myself to learn new things, and be more attentive to others’ needs.


What's the worst critic you have received?


During my undergraduate senior year studying animation in Hong Kong, I faced significant pressure. The workload was demanding, requiring a large amount of high-quality work to be completed within extremely tight deadlines. Despite my efforts, I was often labeled as lazy, which greatly affected my confidence. The teacher’s approach left me feeling disheartened and unappreciated. One day, I suddenly burst into tears, overwhelmed by the pressure. I was also deeply worried that my grades might prevent me from graduating. In the end, I felt so discouraged and mentally affected that I had no choice but to drop the course entirely.


If you weren't an actor/director/screenplayer what would you like to be?


I would like to be an art therapy coach. My aim is to use art therapy to help individuals with mental illnesses and socially vulnerable groups. I hope to volunteer my skills to support others in need. Once I become familiar with the community and build trust, I would like to request permission to use a 4K DSLR camera to document the creative process.


If Cinema was a color what would it be?


It will feature rainbow colors, blending warm and cool tones together. Primary, secondary, and tertiary colors will also be combined fluidly.

A day without a movie is...


Quiet, meditative, reflective—listening and concentrating on the voices or song in my mind, letting it flow into an imaginative atmosphere.


If someone offered you to play/direct/write in/a movie that you despise but that for sure will make you rich and famous...would you accept the job?


I’ve decided not to accept the job. I’m going to follow my heart and pursue the movie I’ve always wanted to direct. The promise of wealth and fame from the other option won’t influence my decision.


What's your greatest ambition?


My greatest ambition is to become a filmmaker who can direct films filled with infectious energy and impact, working with lovely people.


What's your biggest fear?


Becoming a failure—unable to do a good job directing, lacking confidence, and worrying about running out of time. I tend to worry too much about the details, especially when it comes to myself.


Does music help you to play/direct, write?


I think so. Music helps me stay focused and allows me to meditate while directing.


You have the chance to make a Silent movie, what's your message to the audience?


I would like to create an experimental documentary-style film to showcase and encourage the enjoyment of a slow-paced, peaceful, and quiet city lifestyle in Manchester.


Share your speech if you should win an Oscar..... 


I would like to thank for the teachers who taught me filmmaking during my time at university film school and my parents.My Master’s film school teacher, Debbie Ballin, taught me so much, especially about storytelling in documentaries and the craftsmanship of creating films. She provided me with significant guidance and inspiration for making my independent film. Mark Thomas, who introduced me to Debbie as my tutor, also gave me a wealth of helpful advice. He was as a fantastic source of inspiration, offering thoughtful critique and feedback on my work. My undergraduate film teacher, Evangelo Angelo Costadimas, was a great source of support. He invited guest speakers to give us a deeper understanding of the film industry in Hong Kong. He also showed excellent leadership, guiding our class as we worked to wrap up our film projects.

Lastly, I want to thank my parents, who invested so much in my education, both undergraduate and postgraduate. Their constant support and encouragement allowed me to follow my passion, and they were always there to lift me up whenever I felt stressed, discouraged, or tempted to give up.