Yuan is a Franco-Chinese filmmaker born in London represented by United Agents
Having honed his craft working for legends Spike Lee and Rankin, Yuan's extensive experience across narrative and commercials puts him at an exciting and unique cross-section
Heavily influenced by animation, surrealism and dark comedy, he embraces what he lovingly refers to as “elevated lo-fi” — films that feel handmade and toy with the medium but maintain a high concept and considered execution. His background as a musician and editor also drive him to experiment with music and sound, elastic editing and atmospheric mise en scène
He started as an intern to Spike Lee at the legendary director’s 40 Acres and a Mule Filmworks in New York in 2014 after attending a masterclass
In 2015 he joined British photographer Rankin’s studio as a cam op, editor and director working across fashion films, documentaries, music videos and commercials
In 2018 he returned to work for 40 Acres on the Netflix produced She’s Gotta Have It (S2), and was then Director’s Assistant to Spike Lee on Da Five Bloods, filmed across Thailand and Vietnam
His debut short Sticks of Fury premiered at the BFI London Film Festival ‘22 and received a Vimeo Staff Pick, Short of the Week, Directors Notes and Berlin Commercial Awards selection
He is currently writing his debut feature
