Experiencing Interruptions?

Retro Memo

A one-take film tells a story about a schizophrenic father who struggles in his memory loop and eventually decides to embrace reality with his daughter.

  • Zhaoyu Liu
    Director
  • Zhaoyu Liu
    Writer
  • Helen Hofler
    Producer
  • Renji Jiang
    Key Cast
    "Director of Photographer"
    Tracking
  • Boxi Chen
    Key Cast
    "Sound recording"
  • Hongyi Li
    Key Cast
    "Music composer"
  • Yu Wang
    Key Cast
    "Color grading"
  • Project Type:
    Short, Student
  • Genres:
    Drama, Family
  • Runtime:
    10 minutes 23 seconds
  • Completion Date:
    September 30, 2023
  • Production Budget:
    15,000 USD
  • Country of Origin:
    United States
  • Country of Filming:
    United States
  • Language:
    English
  • Shooting Format:
    RED
  • Aspect Ratio:
    4:3
  • Film Color:
    Color
  • First-time Filmmaker:
    Yes
  • Student Project:
    Yes - California College of the Arts
Director Biography - Zhaoyu Liu

Born in China Mainland, 2000. Chinese. Undergraduate student from California College of the Arts. Previously studied Psychology and Philosophy, then showed his enthusiasm for filmmaking, and now learning at California College of the Arts.

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Director Statement

As a director, my creative journey often takes me to unexpected and exhilarating places. For instance, in one of my recent projects, I had the opportunity to craft a screenplay that centered around a father and son, played by two exceptional actors, who embarked on a perilous expedition to confront a gigantic deep-sea beast. This project not only tested my storytelling skills but also pushed the boundaries of my imagination and technical expertise. The challenges of simulating an underwater world and orchestrating intense action sequences were significant. Yet, it was a testament to my commitment to storytelling that I eagerly embraced these hurdles. The end result was a visually stunning and emotionally gripping film that showcased my ability to blend the fantastical with the poignant, leaving a lasting impact on the audience.

In another poignant project, I delved deep into the themes of friendship and the human spirit. Collaborating with a talented ensemble cast and crew, we brought to life a heartfelt narrative about a group of individuals who, in the face of adversity, united to fulfill a cherished friend's final wish. This endeavor was not just about storytelling; it was about capturing the essence of human connection, the power of love, and the resilience of the human spirit. Through the lens, I sought to convey the emotions that resonated with the characters and, by extension, with our viewers. The film became a testament to the enduring beauty of these emotions, transcending the screen to touch the hearts of our audience.

In my role as a Cinematographer, every project is a playground for my curiosity and an opportunity to enhance my technical prowess. Working alongside seasoned professionals, I've had the privilege of learning the art of organizing the cinematography department. For instance, during a collaboration with a group of accomplished film school graduates, I honed my leadership skills and refined my ability to guide a talented team to execute our collective vision effectively. This experience not only contributed to the success of the project but also provided me with valuable lessons in collaboration and mentorship.

Furthermore, my passion for cinematography has led me to assist experienced gaffers, where I learned the subtleties of lighting techniques that transform a scene into a work of visual art. In one instance, I worked with a renowned gaffer on a demanding night shoot, where we needed to create an evocative, moonlit ambiance in an urban setting. This involved meticulous planning, positioning of lights, and adjusting them to achieve the desired mood and atmosphere. The outcome was a breathtaking scene that showcased my growth as a cinematographer and my ability to contribute to the visual storytelling of a project.

Every project, whether as a director or cinematographer, fuels my passion for filmmaking. Each experience, be it a triumph or a challenge, is an opportunity to evolve, to learn, and to push the boundaries of my craft. Filmmaking, to me, is an enduring love affair, a journey of creativity and discovery that enriches my life and, I hope, the lives of those who engage with my work.