Sean Wang Interview on Filming DÌDI (弟弟) in Fremont | The Nicki Sun Show
In this exclusive interview, Academy Award-nominated filmmaker Sean Wang sits down with fellow Fremont native and host Nicki Sun to discuss his journey back to their hometown, where his critically acclaimed film "DÌDI (弟弟)" is set. Wang shares insights into the making of "DÌDI (弟弟)," a deeply personal story about a 13-year-old Taiwanese-American boy navigating adolescence in the late 2000s. Drawing inspiration from classic coming-of-age films like "Stand By Me," Wang highlights the importance of representation and authenticity in his work. The conversation also touches on the emotional experience of filming in Fremont, working with family, and the impact of showcasing immigrant stories. Wang reflects on the whirlwind success of his film and the significance of capturing his unique cultural heritage on screen.
00:00 Introduction and Welcome
02:00 Premise of DIDI
03:00 Exploring adolescence
04:45 Filming and finding inspiration in Fremont
07:00 Being a first-time filmmaker
08:00 Sean's cool grandmas and filming with family
09:40 Sean's whirlwind year from Oscar-nominated to debut feature film
10:30 Stephanie Hsu
11:45 Working with Joan Chen
12:00 Sean's DIDI Highlights (so far)
14:40 Tackling "shame" in DIDI
16:00 Mom's involvement in the making of DIDI
20:13 Sean reflects on relationship with mom
22:15 Where Sean filmed in Fremont
24:30 Sean's favorite hangout spots in Fremont
25:40 Getting Motion City Soundtrack to record an original song
28:00 Going over Sean's Instagram pinned posts
29:00 Manifesting
29:30 Answering top Google searches with Sean Wang
32:00 Filmmaking advice from Sean Wang
33:36 Sean's first short
36:00 Any pressure to create another critically acclaimed film?
38:25 Famous people from Fremont
Special Thanks to the following individuals, teams, family, and friends for making this interview happen:
Tremendous Communications and Focus Features for coordinating this interview
Mr. Sun Tea for providing us their Fremont location as our backdrop
Jon Santos for being my special guest cinematographer this episode
Richie Santos for lending an extra hand on set
Sean's mom and Nicki's mom, brother, and grandma for being our first live audience
Gear Highlights Used This Episode:
Nanlite Projector Mount for Forza 60
TASCAM Portacapture X6
Insta360 GO 3S
Nikon Zf with 50mm lens (Sean's angle)
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