Hi, I'm Jiawen

A storyteller who keeps exploring moving images.

Jiawen Han is a distinguished film and TV commercial director based in Los Angeles. She earned her MFA in Narrative Film Directing from the UCLA School of Theater, Film, and Television, bringing a rich background of international experience and a unique storytelling perspective to her work.

As a dedicated female director, Jiawen is committed to crafting compelling, female-driven narratives. Her acclaimed film "SUMMER RAIN" poignantly addresses the struggles new mothers face with postpartum depression, exploring the deep emotional and societal challenges that women encounter. Another significant work, "THE GUEST," delves into the intricate and often unresolved dynamics within mother-daughter relationships. Jiawen's films resonate deeply with themes central to women's lives, including identity, struggle, desire, wisdom, and freedom.

Before her studies at UCLA, Jiawen spent three transformative years working as a TV commercial director in Shanghai, one of the world's foremost advertising markets. This experience honed her skills in effective communication, meticulous attention to detail, and the art of clear, impactful storytelling.

Jiawen's storytelling extends beyond female-centric narratives to highlight the ordinary lives of everyday people and the systemic gender inequalities and societal challenges they face. She has directed 14 short films across China, New Zealand, Japan, and Mongolia, tackling diverse issues such as the implications of China's 'one-child policy,' the challenges of elderly care, the plight of 'left-behind' children in rural areas, and the disparities faced by Asian women. Her films have been showcased at various film festivals, including the Tampere Film Festival, 48Hours New Zealand, the Arri Awards, and the China Vision Youth Awards.

Breaking into an industry where few voices like hers have traditionally been heard has been a formidable challenge. As an Asian female filmmaker, Jiawen views every day as a learning experience and remains steadfast in her mission to make a difference. She is passionate about opening doors for more diverse stories to be told and voices to be heard in the film industry.