Interview
Sunny Liu
Sunny Liu is a highly accomplished and acclaimed creative force, recognized as an award-winning filmmaker, pianist/composer, and animator. Her work amplifies the voices of the underrepresented through intimate storytelling. Based in New York, Sunny excels as a producer, director, cinematographer, editor, and production sound mixer. With a prestigious educational background, Sunny holds a Bachelor's degree from Emerson College in Boston, a Master's in Music from The New School in New York City, and a second Master's in Documentary Filmmaking from the School of Visual Arts, also located in New York City. Her diverse skill set pushes the boundaries of her craft. Sunny's talent has garnered widespread recognition, with her animated film, "Calling," making a lasting impression at the Doc NYC Film Festival. Her debut feature film, "Pianoman," was selected for The China Academy Awards of Documentary Film and won Best Feature Documentary Film at Nepal American International Film Festival. Sunny Liu's fearless dedication continues to inspire and touch the hearts of audiences worldwide.
What is your background and how did you start your journey in the art world?
“My journey into the art world began unexpectedly through my deep connection with music, particularly the piano. Growing up, my childhood friend - a remarkable opera singer - shared the stage with me, our dreams intertwined in harmonious melodies. However, life's unpredictable turns led her towards acting, causing our paths to diverge. In a bid to support her aspirations and maintain our bond, I made a courageous leap from pianist to filmmaker, unaware of the profound transformation it would ignite within me. This transition wasn't merely a career shift; it became a soul-stirring journey. Filmmaking emerged as my newfound passion during a period of introspection. It was a beacon of purpose in a time of searching. My music background instilled in me the essence of emotional storytelling. Just as my piano conveyed unspoken emotions, filmmaking became my canvas for expressing untold stories. It's not about perfect frames but the emotive connection that transcends boundaries. The parallels between music and filmmaking are striking. Collaboration and storytelling remain at their core, bridging the emotional gap between heart and audience. Looking forward, my goal is to continue crafting impactful narratives through filmmaking. I aspire to evoke emotions, forge connections, and leave an indelible mark on audiences through timeless storytelling, staying true to the essence of my musical roots.”
What does your work aim to say? Does it comment on any current social or political issues?
“My cinematic pursuit is rooted in the unwavering belief that every individual possesses a story worth sharing—a conviction that drives me to use storytelling as a catalyst for change. I'm dedicated to bringing forth the narratives of marginalized communities often overshadowed by mainstream discourse. The experiences of immigrants, incarcerated people, and people with disabilities carry profound tales, often unheard. Their stories fuel my creative passion, compelling me to unearth these intricate narratives. For me, storytelling transcends mere artistic expression; it's a profound commitment to amplifying voices historically silenced. Film, with its unique ability to spotlight lives sidelined by societal norms, holds unparalleled potential for social impact. I am ardently devoted to revealing our shared humanity, aiming to bridge divides and nurture empathy.
"Pianoman," an introspective exploration of an undocumented family's journey, epitomizes this dedication. By authentically portraying their story with empathy, the film delves deep into the struggles of marginalized communities, aspiring not merely to be heard but to be deeply understood. My formative experiences, particularly collaborating on Antonio Yarbough's documentary—an individual wrongfully incarcerated for nearly two decades—were pivotal in shaping my journey. This effort culminated in the establishment of S3, our platform committed to amplifying voices from behind bars, striving for justice through impactful storytelling. My roles as a cinematographer and sound mixer with Positive Exposure and Diplodocus stand as significant achievements. Through these initiatives, I've actively contributed to reshaping how medical information is communicated, advocating for understanding and inclusivity within healthcare and broader communities. Each project I undertake encapsulates a commitment to narratives that resonate, educate, and drive transformative change. As I progress, I am compelled to broaden the scope of my storytelling, challenging societal perceptions, and fervently advocating for inclusivity and understanding through the universal language of film.”
Do you plan your work in advance, or is it improvisation?
“My approach to filmmaking embodies a dance between meticulous planning, akin to interpreting a classical piano masterpiece, and spontaneous creativity, reminiscent of the improvised jazz riffs that infuse vitality into a performance. When I begin a new project, it's akin to discovering a melody within the lives of captivating individuals. Meeting Maamoun Tobbo, a talented Lebanese architect and set designer, during a friend's thesis film felt like stumbling upon an evocative musical note that sparked my curiosity. His personal journey and family challenges deeply resonated, inspiring me to explore and translate his narrative into a visual composition. To unravel the essence of these characters, I engage in conversations, creating an environment where they harmoniously unveil their experiences. This interaction fosters an improvisational flow, akin to the spontaneous riffing of a jazz ensemble. Leveraging my background in piano, I maintain a steady rhythm even during emotionally charged moments on set.
In the editing suite, I act as a conductor, weaving together captured moments similar to orchestrating a symphony. Each frame, akin to a musical note, harmonizes seamlessly to compose a cohesive narrative. It's a process akin to refining the movements and expressions of each instrument in an ensemble. Reflecting on personal experiences, there were instances where my musical sensibility guided me on set, creating a composed ambiance amidst raw and intense emotions, much like a maestro guiding an orchestra through a complex arrangement. The orchestration of structured planning and spontaneous creativity in my filmmaking mirrors the harmony found in music. It's a delicate balance where adherence to the score intertwines with spontaneous improvisation, culminating in immersive cinematic narratives that linger in the audience's hearts, resonating like a lingering melody long after the performance ends.”
Are there any art world trends you are following?
“Currently, I'm immersed in the forefront of the art world—converging technology and visual media in post-production. My focus is on YoPo, an AI-driven application revolutionizing filmmaking's post-production. YoPo originated from challenges faced during "Pianoman." Post-production intricacies and time constraints prompted the need for a solution. Collaborating with COO Jasmine Moni Guo, we identified the need to redefine post-production through AI integration, leading to YoPo's inception. Tianfu Fu, a respected Facebook AI scientist, contributed crucial technical insights, shaping YoPo into today's groundbreaking solution. At YoPo's core is the seamless fusion of artistic vision and technological innovation, enhancing the creative process without overshadowing it. The result is a tool streamlining workflows and unlocking fresh creative avenues in filmmaking. YoPo signifies a trend where technology merges with artistic expression, reshaping visual storytelling, marking a pivotal moment in the industry's evolution.”
What process, materials and techniques do you use to create your artwork?
“In my journey of documentary-style filmmaking, I've discovered an intrinsic connection that surpasses mere storytelling - it involves forming profound bonds with the individuals I portray. Behind the lens, each film becomes a collaborative endeavor, akin to a dance between me and my subjects. One unforgettable experience occurred during the production of 'Pianoman,' where the established trust and rapport became the essence of the narrative. Such moments shape my filmmaking, emphasizing the transformative power of genuine human connections. While emotional depth is crucial, the technical and creative aspects also intertwine in my work. Utilizing observational filming techniques and embracing natural lighting allows me to authentically capture unscripted moments. This vérité approach, combined with meticulous post-production, aims to elicit emotions and deeply engage audiences. Collaboration in documentary filmmaking extends beyond visual storytelling; it encompasses mutual respect, consent, and the interweaving of narratives. Establishing trust with subjects is fundamental, creating an environment where their stories are respectfully shared. Through this collaborative synergy, I've realized that stories transcend individuals—they unite through shared experiences. Reflecting on my growth, each project provides valuable insights shaping my evolving approach. Overcoming challenges leads to innovative solutions and hones my storytelling prowess. The impact of my documentaries extends beyond screens—they spur discussions, provoke social change, and connect communities through shared emotions. Ultimately, documentary filmmaking isn't merely a profession; it's an ongoing journey of empathy and storytelling. It involves weaving human experiences into compelling narratives that resonate, evoke emotions, and forge enduring connections.”
“In my journey of documentary-style filmmaking, I've discovered an intrinsic connection that surpasses mere storytelling - it involves forming profound bonds with the individuals I portray.”
What does your art mean to you?
“Art, to me, is a symphony of emotions—a language beyond words. Rooted in my musical background, it's a fusion of storytelling and heartfelt connections. As a young pianist, I used music not only to play notes but to express unspoken feelings—an affectionate language brimming with emotional depth. Transitioning from music to filmmaking wasn't solely about technical perfection but about weaving stories and emotions. Like music, filmmaking surpasses flawless execution; it's about eliciting genuine emotions and forging connections through storytelling. Music and filmmaking intertwine as mediums to explore human emotions and convey universal narratives. They speak a language that deeply resonates, touching hearts and minds. Guided by this synergy, I infuse emotion, connection, and storytelling into my films. Leonard Bernstein's words mirror my journey—a fusion of emotion, connection, and storytelling. At my core, I champion unheard stories, using film as a tool to amplify voices, bridge gaps, and advocate for inclusivity. Through storytelling, I challenge norms and empower silenced voices, contributing to a world where every narrative finds recognition in the mosaic of human experiences.”
What’s your favorite artwork and why?
“The artwork I cherish, 'Unsupervised' by Refik Anadol, holds an indelible place in my heart. I vividly recall being captivated by its allure as I sat embraced by MoMA, unable to look away. Anadol's creation stands as an epitome of artistry merged with technology—a mesmerizing collaboration of AI algorithms and visual wonders. Within the halls of 'Unsupervised,' I found myself transported into a world where vast data seamlessly transformed into captivating visual narratives. The artwork's profound impact lies not only in its aesthetic brilliance but also in its transformative power. It embodies Anadol's ingenious fusion of machine intelligence and artistic expression, boldly redefining contemporary art's boundaries. For me, 'Unsupervised' signifies more than an exhibit—it's an homage to boundless possibilities where technology converges with art. This masterpiece fuels my passion for the ever-evolving realm of creativity, consistently inspiring and challenging conventional norms of artistic expression.”
Have you had any noteworthy exhibitions you'd like to share?
“In recent projects, I've contributed to both the trailer for PIANOMAN and the development of PIANOMAN's website. Simultaneously, I'm collaborating with filmmaker Alley Leinweber on a dance documentary featuring Angela Trimbur, an innovative NYC choreographer. Angela's Balletcore challenges norms by prioritizing joy over perfectionism with her ensemble. We're genuinely excited about sharing company members’ stories, and in the meantime, everyone is invited to join the recital on February 1st. This project deeply resonates with my background in classical piano, inspiring a shift from traditional notions of 'skill' to embracing joy and abandon, aligning with Angela's transformative approach to dance.”
Instagram: @pianomanfilm
Brush Bio: www.brush.bio/sunnyliu
