Valerie Tan "Focus on the Story above all else" - Indie-Clips Original Interview
Valerie Tan
Indie-Clips Original Interview
Valerie Tan
"Focus on the Story above all else"
Can you tell us more about yourself and about your short films?
Absolutely, I’m Val, I’m a filmmaker from Singapore that is currently based in Los Angeles.
I’m drawn to narratives that celebrate the richness of the human experience, ones that highlight moments of joy, resilience, and connection. My short films are uplifting with a sense of celebration.
Whether that’s through the vibrancy of visuals, the rhythm of the music, or the characters, I like to find lighthearted moments in challenging themes.
What are your cinematic inspirations? Any short film or feature film you'd recommend watching?
My cinematic inspirations are very varied. I’m fascinated by the way different genres can evoke a wide range of emotions. While I personally enjoy dramedies and films that incorporate musical elements, I enjoy expanding my horizon and seeking out films from various genres, cultures, and traditions.
A film I often recommend is Bad Genius by Nattawut Poonpriya. I’m always trying to branch outside of Hollywood and continue to watch films from different countries. I think there’s so many narratives, stories, and perspectives that I have yet to be exposed to. If someone isn’t familiar with films from Asia, Bad Genius is a great way into the world of Asian cinema. It’s a Thai film made in 2017 about a genius high school student who makes money by helping her classmates cheat in examinations. While it seems small in scope the stakes get really high, and the emotion that Poonpriya is able to evoke is masterful. It is this rather simple premise that becomes a thriller heist.
What was the biggest challenge you faced on one of your productions? How did you overcome it?
It’s hard to think of one right now, I seem to block them out of my head once a production is over! Beyond working on narrative films, I also work a lot in commercials. Some of the most difficult parts of those productions is having to problem-solve with a client on set. A client can want to change something significant on a shoot, and sometimes you don’t have the time to make the fix.
What is the best memory you have from shooting your short films?
Anytime my cast and crew are having a good time, bonus if anyone breaks out a dance move. My goal in making films is to spread positivity and bring inspiration. And so when that positivity starts on set, those are the best memories for me. Filmmaking is more than just the end product, I love the craft of the work, and I’m passionate about working to perfect that craft.
Can you share one piece of advice to independent filmmakers making their first short film?
This is probably something most independent filmmakers will hear, but focus on the story above all else. The story is the heart of your film, and everything else- whether it’s the technical aspects or production values- are there to serve the story. It’s easy to get caught up trying to make things perfect and feeling the pressure of having everything be exactly the way you see it in your head.
But there’s no amount of polishing that can fix the emotional resonance of your film. I think a compelling narrative will shine through even if the production isn’t flawless.
Any future plans ? Tell us more about your upcoming projects!
I’m always looking ahead, excited by various possibilities. Lately, I’ve been deeply involved in directing commercials, which has been both challenging and rewarding. The fast-paced nature of commercial work has pushed me to be more precise and creative.
I’m not sure how much I can say about the commercial projects I have coming up, but they’re all in the realm of bright, fun, vibrant work!
Where can we see your work? Any way to contact you?
You can view my work on my website, valtanfilm.com. If you’re interested in getting in touch, my contact information is also available there.
