Aunt Susan
See my nanny through my eyes. She's more than her job description—she's family.
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Sophia WangDirector
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Sophia WangProducer
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Susan WangKey Cast
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Sophia WangCamera
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Rose ChangCamera
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Sophia WangEditor
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Project Title (Original Language):Susan 阿姨
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Project Type:Documentary, Short, Student
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Runtime:12 minutes
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Completion Date:June 7, 2016
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Language:Chinese
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Film Color:Color
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First-time Filmmaker:No
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Student Project:Yes
Sophia Wang is a recent graduate from the University of California, Santa Cruz. Capturing real moments and people has always been a passion of hers, and she enjoys highlighting the beauty in life that’s often overlooked.
My family has relied on hired help since before I was born. This past year I’ve been reflecting on my relationships with the immigrant women who were partially responsible for my upbringing. I was struck by how my family’s current nanny, Susan, struggles with her perception of the job; she feels both pride and embarrassment from her work. To me being a nanny takes great strength and courage—it isn’t glamorous and it’s difficult. You give up time with your own family to rear a child that isn’t yours. You’re responsible for another person’s wellbeing. Sacrifices are made, and new, deeply personal relationships are built.
This piece explores my relationship with Susan as a response to society’s views on immigrant caretakers. I want her to see herself the way I see her. While I focus on her past and present, I hope this short film shines a light on the many immigrant nannies hard at work, under-appreciated. In a way, the piece is a tribute or “thank you” to all the nannies I’ve had, and others in similar positions.