Please tell us about the projects you worked on before making ‘Forgotten But Not Gone’. How did you start, and how did you learn to make films?
Forgotten But Not Gone was my graduation project for my Master’s degree at Goldsmiths, University of London. Before pursuing my Master’s, I spent three years working in the film and commercial industry, primarily in Macau. During this time, I contributed to several government-funded feature films, taking on roles such as assistant art director and art assistant, while also producing independent short films.
My journey into filmmaking began at the age of 16 when I worked as a director’s assistant on a 40-minute film. That first exposure to a professional set was transformative—it sparked a passion for storytelling that has driven me ever since. I made it a point to immerse myself in every aspect of filmmaking, taking on practical roles across various departments. Each experience enriched my understanding of the craft and built the strong foundation I stand on today and I loved every step of the journey.

Tell us about ‘Forgotten But Not Gone’. How do you describe it?
Forgotten But Not Gone is a bittersweet exploration of longing and the social issue of digital exclusion. The story was deeply inspired by personal experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic, a period when rapid digitalization changed the way we interacted with the world.
I witnessed loved ones—especially elderly family members—struggling to navigate a society that had become heavily reliant on technology. Many felt isolated and even fearful, unable to access essential services like healthcare, public transport, and even outdoor spaces because they weren’t proficient with smartphone apps. This stark realization shaped the narrative, making the film both a personal reflection and a commentary on the growing divide between generations in an increasingly digital world.
Please tell us about your favorite filmmakers.
I deeply admire Zhang Yimou for his unparalleled vision and storytelling. His films are not only visually stunning but also emotionally profound. Zhang has an extraordinary ability to connect audiences to his characters' struggles and inner conflicts. His meticulous pacing and the way he builds emotional resonance through every frame leave a lasting impact. Similarly, Ridley Scott has been a major influence. His ability to craft immersive, visually arresting worlds while maintaining the emotional core of his stories is truly inspiring. Scott’s attention to detail and mastery of both epic scale and intimate moments make his work iconic.

If you were given a good budget, what would be your ideal project?
With a solid budget, I’d create a 30-minute film that combines large-scale set builds and strong SFX. This would allow me to craft an ambitious and visually captivating story, paying equal attention to emotional depth and cinematic innovation. A significant portion of the budget would go toward pre-production and post-production, as I believe these phases are crucial for refining the narrative and achieving technical excellence.
Describe how you would ensure that production is on schedule. What steps would you take?
Maintaining a production schedule requires a combination of thorough preparation and proactive management. I would start by developing a detailed production plan, complete with realistic timelines and milestones. Regular meetings with department heads would ensure alignment and provide an opportunity to address any potential issues early. Rehearsals, test shoots, and equipment checks would be integral to minimizing delays during production. Clear communication is key—I would foster an environment where every team member feels informed, valued, and empowered to voice concerns. By staying flexible and adaptable, I’d ensure the production remains on track without compromising the creative process.
What was the hardest part of making ‘Forgotten But Not Gone’.
The most challenging aspect of making Forgotten But Not Gone was adapting the story to fit UK culture during the script development stage. Translating themes and nuances from my personal experiences into a context that resonated with a different cultural audience required significant effort and sensitivity.
Additionally, there were moments of creative tension among the heads of departments regarding the tone and direction of the film. These discussions, though challenging, ultimately strengthened the project by encouraging collaboration and refining our vision as a team.

If possible, tell us about your next work. What plans do you have for your future work?
My next project will focus on character-driven storytelling, exploring the intricate dynamics of a mother-daughter relationship. I am drawn to narratives that delve into the complexity of human connections, showcasing authenticity and emotional depth. I hope to continue creating stories that resonate on a personal level while addressing broader societal themes.
Comments