How Sean Wang and Joan Chen Brought Authenticity and Emotion to Dìdi (弟弟)

In our recent conversation, director Sean Wang, Izaac Wang, and lead actress Joan Chen shared the heartfelt journey behind their latest film, Dìdi (弟弟). Their reflections on filming in their hometown and the deeply personal connections they brought to the story offer a glimpse into the magic and authenticity that make Focus Features’ Didi a must-watch.

The Importance of Shooting in Fremont, CA

Sean Wang, the director of Dìdi (弟弟), shared his profound reflections on shooting the film in his hometown of Fremont. His decision to film in a non-traditional location brought about unexpected realizations and set a new direction for his future projects.

“I think the bet that I took was by shooting in Fremont and by shooting in my hometown, by shooting in a place that wasn’t a filmmaking hub, the community would be really excited. Because I remember what it felt like to sort of start my path into becoming a filmmaker and walking onto and being a part of the infrastructure of filmmaking, and it’s shiny and new, and you’re like, ‘Whoa, like it is what, you know, little magical.’ And you make more things, and you go on set more and more, and the novelty kind of wears off. But when you make a movie in a place that doesn’t make movies, everyone gets excited. That magic is kind of there, and they want to be involved.”

Sean’s decision to shoot in Fremont was driven by his desire to recapture the magic of filmmaking and involve his community in the process. By choosing a location outside of traditional filmmaking hubs, he hoped to bring an authentic excitement and passion to the project. This approach not only infused the film with a unique energy but also highlighted the location as a significant character within the narrative. Sean believes that the authenticity of the setting enhances the storytelling, making it more relatable and engaging for the audience.

Joan Chen’s Process of Channeling Real-Life Emotions

Joan Chen, the lead actor, discussed her method of conveying deep emotions on screen. Her personal experiences as an immigrant in the United States heavily influenced her portrayal of the character in Dìdi (弟弟).

“I don’t practice in the mirror. I just, I guess, channel the feelings that I have experienced and wanted to express. I’m pretty shy in real life and not very demonstrative. And opportunities like this are a chance for me to—it’s catharsis for me. It wasn’t hard. It was just naturally pouring out of me.”

Joan’s performance in Dìdi (弟弟) is deeply rooted in her personal experiences and emotions. Her approach to acting does not rely on rehearsals in front of a mirror but on a genuine expression of her own feelings. As an immigrant who arrived in the United States as an adult, Joan drew from her own life to connect with her character. This authentic connection allowed her to portray her role with a visceral intensity, making her performance both compelling and relatable. Her ability to channel her personal journey into her acting adds a layer of depth and realism to the film.

The Emotional Core of Dìdi (弟弟)

Joan further elaborated on the emotional core of her character, emphasizing the universal themes of love and sacrifice that drive the narrative of Dìdi (弟弟).

“I relate to the character very much. I am an immigrant. I came to the United States as an adult, so there were a lot of things I don’t have reference on, just like the character in the film. And you want to raise American children, and it’s confusing. But ultimately, it’s that love that guides you, that drives you, that—you know, you’re willing to sacrifice everything for your children because your children are the roots that you put down in the United States.”

The emotional core of Dìdi (弟弟) revolves around the immigrant experience, the challenges of adapting to a new culture, and the universal drive of parental love. Joan’s character embodies these struggles and triumphs, reflecting the real-life experiences of many immigrants. Her portrayal highlights the confusion and sacrifices inherent in raising children in a foreign land while striving to provide them with a better future. This narrative not only resonates with immigrant audiences but also offers a powerful story of love and perseverance that can touch the hearts of all viewers.

The Incredibly Realized Vision and Execution of Dìdi (弟弟)

The insights from Sean Wang and Joan Chen reveal the thoughtful and personal approach behind Dìdi (弟弟). Filming in Fremont brought a unique energy to the project, while Joan’s deeply personal performance added emotional depth to the film. Unfortunately, time forbid us from getting in a question with Izaac Wang. However, their combined efforts, along with the rest of the case and crew created a movie that is both a celebration of community and a poignant exploration of the immigrant experience. As Didi continues to gain attention, it stands as a testament to the power of authentic storytelling and the profound impact of personal connections in filmmaking.

Dìdi (弟弟) premiered at the 2024 Sundance Film Festival and is now playing in select theaters, and everywhere August 16, 2024.