Worklife with Adam Grant Fighting against the status quo with filmmaker Jon M. Chu
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Aug 20, 2024 Jon M. Chu, renowned filmmaker behind hits like Crazy Rich Asians and In the Heights, shares his inspiring journey navigating Hollywood's complex landscape. He reflects on the courage needed to tell authentic stories and the significance of mentorship in creative pursuits. Discussing identity and representation, Jon addresses the balance between artistic vision and audience expectations. He also highlights the importance of cultivating a new generation of filmmakers who are eager to break boundaries and innovate in storytelling.
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Origin Story
- Jon M. Chu's passion for filmmaking started when he edited a family vacation video, which moved his parents to tears.
- This experience showed him the power of storytelling and led him to pursue filmmaking at USC, where he was discovered by Steven Spielberg.
Spielberg's Influence
- Steven Spielberg saw potential in Chu's student film, focusing on camera work and music, leading to a project and mentorship.
- Despite initial excitement, Chu faced years of setbacks before making his first feature film, highlighting the unpredictable nature of the industry.
Mother's Wisdom
- After years of setbacks, Chu's mother encouraged him to take any storytelling opportunity, regardless of the medium.
- This led him to direct "Step Up 2: The Streets," which reignited his career, proving the importance of consistent practice.
