By: Linda Gabriel

As an integral part of social culture, film has always played a crucial role. It serves not only as a tool for entertainment but also as a platform for exploring social issues and transmitting cultural messages. In this era, filmmakers face the challenging task of telling profound stories through visual language that resonates with audiences. Among these storytellers is Yihui Hu, whose works reflect not only personal experiences and emotions but also delve deeply into cultural differences and female identity.

From a young age, Yihui Hu was passionate about painting and storytelling, initially using a brush to convey her narratives. However, as she studied art at the Central Academy of Fine Arts High School and received numerous awards, she gradually discovered that film was a more powerful medium for expressing her thoughts on society and culture. This realization led her down a new path, transforming static images on canvas into dynamic visual narratives to explore and express human emotions and social issues.

Hu's journey in filmmaking is marked by exploration and experimentation. While studying at the Savannah College of Art and Design, she constantly experimented with different shooting techniques and expressive forms, striving to infuse each of her works with her unique style and voice. Through participation in the school's Editing Club and Documentary Club, she honed her skills in various aspects of filmmaking, whether in narrative films, documentaries, or commercials. She aimed to incorporate her deep insights into culture, gender, and identity into her works.

During her time at the Savannah College of Art and Design, Yihui Hu actively engaged in filmmaking, creating several short films and documentaries, including "The Monster," "The Bus," "The Girl Who Kills the Cat," and "Lexus - The Car Is Your Second Home." These works not only showcased her versatility in filmmaking but also her exploration of different themes and styles. In these early projects, she continually experimented with various narrative techniques and visual expressions, gradually developing her distinctive style. Hu excels at depicting complex human nature through delicate emotional portrayals and clever plot designs, with a particular focus on the inner worlds and growth journeys of female characters.

Hu's graduation work, "Beach House," is undoubtedly a significant milestone in her filmmaking career. This film tells the story of a woman who discovers an unknown seaside villa on her parents' list of assets and encounters a young girl who bears a striking resemblance to her. The work captivates audiences with its delicate emotional portrayal and suspenseful atmosphere while exploring themes of identity and family secrets.

Despite the success of "Beach House," Hu did not rest on her laurels. To further explore the art of cinema, she decided to return to school, enrolling in DePaul University to pursue a graduate degree in film directing. During this period, Hu created more in-depth and impactful works, such as "The Safe" and "Secret Garden." These projects continued her focus on female characters while also delving into issues of cultural differences and identity. Her films are not just stories but also a manifestation of social responsibility, aiming to give a voice to Asian women and promote Asian culture through visual language.

At DePaul University, Yihui Hu found her voice and direction. Her latest work is a film about an Asian-American girl discovering a familial connection with a Chinese boy, exploring cultural conflicts and emotional entanglements between them. This film reflects Hu's deep understanding of cultural barriers and showcases her ability to handle nuanced emotions and storytelling as a director.

Yihui Hu's works, characterized by unique perspectives and profound themes, have been recognized and awarded at numerous international film festivals. For instance, "Beach House" was selected for the Toronto International Women's Film Festival, the Venice Short Film Festival, and the New York Lift-Off Film Festival, and won the Outstanding Award at the Canada Short Film Festival. Additionally, her film "The Safe" received awards at the Monthly Film Festival and the Athens International Monthly Art Film Festival and was shortlisted for the Independent Shorts Awards. These accolades highlight not only Hu's directorial prowess but also her influence and standing in the film industry. Through these achievements, she has demonstrated a deep understanding of cinematic art and provided new directions for Asian female filmmakers.

Yihui Hu's cinematic journey is driven by her passion for film and a keen awareness of social issues, particularly the underrepresentation of women and Asian filmmakers in the industry. Determined to use her works to amplify these voices, she focuses on exploring cultural differences, identity, and gender equality, treating film not just as entertainment but as a powerful tool for change. Her ultimate dream is to bring new perspectives and stories to global audiences, representing women and Asian culture through her directorial endeavors. By continuously innovating and striving for artistic success, Hu aims to break down cultural and gender barriers and contribute to creating a more inclusive and diverse world.