Jon Stojan
Originally from Guangzhou, China, Ruoyu Li’s passion for filmmaking began at a young age. He pursued his dreams by studying film at Emerson College in Boston before moving to Los Angeles in 2021 to further his career in the industry.
For Li, filmmaking is not just a profession but a lifelong dream. From imagining himself as a projectionist to realizing that dream, he finds joy in the process of creating stories through film. Li’s admiration for Yasujirō Ozu, the Japanese director known for his emotionally rich films, has deeply influenced his own approach to storytelling, emphasizing the power of subtle emotions with scene blocking.
With experience in the industry since 2013, Li has worked on various film sets, honing his craft as a cinematographer. Beyond filmmaking, he has a passion for street photography, particularly capturing the stories reflected in the faces of strangers, especially seniors, whose life experiences are etched in their expressions.
Recently, Li’s work as additional cinematographer on the film “Bliss” was recognized at the Slamdance Film Festival. His latest collaboration, “Any Sign at All,” directed by Faryl Amadeus, is scheduled to premiere at the 33rd Annual Florida Film Festival in April 2024. Li’s artistic vision has earned acclaim at prestigious film festivals worldwide, including Slamdance, Aspen, Cannes Court Metrage, and now the Florida Film Festival.
As Ruoyu Li continues to grow as a filmmaker, his journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring filmmakers worldwide. With a unique vision and dedication to his craft, Li is poised to make a lasting impact on the world of cinema, captivating audiences with his storytelling and visual artistry.