Interview with Philip Leung, Director of short film MY HERITAGE

Thankfully the response was positive. So positive that audience members broke out in discussion. What started off as a personal film about my own upbringing, My Heritage sparked a conversation amongst audience members to share their own opinions on race and heritage. To witness this impact My Heritage had on others was quite surreal.

– Philip Leung, on the Audience Reaction to his film at the WILDsound Film Festival

Watch the Audience FEEDBACK Video:

Interview with Philip Leung:

Matthew: Your short film played at our festival in 2013. How has it done since it screened?

Philip: WILDsound Festival was where My Heritage had its first public screening and award (Audience Award). Since then, My Heritage has screened at a number of international festivals including the Toronto Independent Film Festival, ReelWorld Film Festival, and Palm Springs International ShortFest and Film Market. As of this year, My Heritage has finished its festival run, and is available for free on YouTube here:

Matthew: What motivated you to make this film?

Philip: I made My Heritage because I wanted to share my own experiences on what it’s like to grow up as an immigrant in Canada. There’s not enough stories like that out there, and I think people have an appetite for them.

Matthew: From the idea to the finished product, how long did it take for you to make this film?

Philip: From scriptwriting, to the final cut, it took roughly 4 months to complete this film.

Matthew: What was the biggest obstacle you faced in completing this film?

Philip: The biggest obstacle was catering. Note to self: not everyone on set likes fast food.

Matthew: What film have you seen the most in your life?

Philip: I must have seen Annie Hall a zillion times. Still relevant after over 30 years.

Matthew: What is next for you? A new film?

Philip: In pre-production for a new film called HUM. It’s about a musician who has to take care of his grandfather with dementia: http://www.humthemovie.com