The Interview

Chloé Zhao, director: I was an outsider

Jan 23, 2026
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ADVICE

Build Your Own House

  • If a mainstream door stays closed, leave and build your own path rather than wasting years trying to fit in.
  • Accept the harder work of creating infrastructure and community because the result will be a house you truly own.
INSIGHT

Community Trumps Lone Genius

  • Collaboration and community enabled Chloé Zhao to make films without big budgets or insider access.
  • Festivals and film labs formed the network that supported her creative growth and opportunities.
ANECDOTE

Shoestring Start In South Dakota

  • Chloé made her first film on a shoestring budget after failing to secure mainstream funding for two years.
  • The South Dakota community opened up access, giving production value far beyond their limited money.
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