Shanghai Chang (b. 1996, Phnom Penh, Cambodia) is a Cambodian-Vietnamese contemporary artist, filmmaker, and a notable co-founder of the HOMELESS Artists Collective. His work spans various creative disciplines, reflecting a deep engagement with Cambodia’s evolving cultural and social landscapes.
Chang’s introduction to the world of filmmaking was through his early work with Anti-Archive, a prominent film production company in Cambodia. He contributed as a production assistant, property master, and costume designer on significant projects such as A Million Years (2018), directed by Danech San, and New Land Broken Road (2018), directed by Kavich Neang. These experiences marked the beginning of his cinematic journey, allowing him to immerse himself in the intricate processes of film production.
In 2018, Chang transitioned from behind-the-scenes roles to direct his own work, debuting with the experimental short film Mélancolie (n.). This film was selected for "CAMBODIA IN SHORT" category at the Cambodia International Film Festival 2018, where it made its national premiere. The film’s experimental approach earned it recognition and selection as part of S-Express program at SeaShorts Film Festival 2018; was held in Georgetown, Penang, Malaysia.
In 2019, Chang directed his second experimental short film, Prey Sar (2019). This film further established his voice as a Cambodian filmmaker, exploring themes of societal constraints and personal freedom. Prey Sar (2019) was selected for the Cambodia Short Films screening program at the 2021's edition of "La Fête du court métrage" Festival, held at the Institut français du Cambodge.