From the vibrant streets of Guangzhou to the bustling film sets of Los Angeles, Ruoyu Li’s journey in the world of filmmaking is a testament to his unwavering passion and resilience. His love for analog photography and cinematography shines through in his latest project, “Any Sign at All,” shot on 16mm film, a format that he believes captures images with the utmost emotionality, requiring both skill and trust between cinematographer and director.
For Li, cinematography is more than just a profession; it’s a form of storytelling that he has been drawn to since childhood. The thrill he feels when capturing a moment with his camera is a feeling that has stayed with him from his earliest days of taking photos. This innate desire to tell stories through images has led him down the path of filmmaking, where he continues to find joy and fulfillment.
Currently, Li is working on a variety of projects, including commercial work and a recent collaboration on a Black and white and Noir-style promo video for Exploding Kittens’ new party game. These projects not only showcase his versatility as a cinematographer but also highlight his ability to adapt to different styles and genres.
Like many on their creative journey, Li has faced his share of challenges. As a Chinese filmmaker, he has had to overcome the language barrier, especially in a post-pandemic era where tensions between China and the USA have created additional hurdles. Despite these challenges, Li remains dedicated to his craft, using his experiences to fuel his creativity and push himself to new heights.
Throughout his journey, Li has been supported by his partner, Yang Fei, who produces most of his movies and provides unwavering support. He also credits Eryn Brown at Entertainment 360 for her guidance and inspiration. As Brown’s personal assistant, Li has been inspired by her work ethic and advocacy for people with disabilities in Hollywood, motivating him to work harder and make a difference in the industry.
As Ruoyu Li continues to navigate the ever-changing landscape of filmmaking, his story serves as a reminder of the power of passion, resilience, and the unwavering belief in the stories we tell. With each project, he invites audiences to join him on a cinematic journey filled with emotion, creativity, and the boundless possibilities of storytelling.