The 10th annual Asian World Film Festival (AWFF) transformed Los Angeles into a global cinematic hub from November 13 to 21, drawing visionary storytellers from around the world. But beyond the flashing cameras and standing ovations, one name stood out Xufang Zhu, the producer, investor, and industry tastemaker known in international circles as Jamie Zhu. With a keen eye for emerging talent and a passion for storytelling, Zhu is redefining how young filmmakers make their mark on the global stage.This year, she took on a pivotal role as a Short Film jury member at AWFF, curating a selection of films that pushed creative boundaries. Among them, one story captured the festival’s imagination Lullaby, a hauntingly poetic short film that left audiences enthralled with its visual depth and emotional resonance.
But Zhu isn’t just about celebrating talent—she’s about launching it.
A Visionary at the Forefront of Global Cinema
With an instinct for spotting raw talent and untapped potential, Zhu—known professionally as Jamie Zhu—is revolutionizing independent film. She specializes in elevating passion projects into international successes, blending investment, mentorship, and strategic industry connections to ensure that great films not only get made—but seen.
Take Leléka, her latest investment, directed by French Canadian filmmaker Harald Hutter. Selected for Barcelona’s L’Alternativa Fest, the film clinched the Premi Antaviana award for post-production, cementing its place in the global conversation. For Zhu, filmmaking is more than a business—it’s an art form she’s determined to protect. “Advancing the art of cinema isn’t just my profession—it’s my responsibility,” she shares. “Festivals like AWFF help me uncover cinematic gems, while projects like Leléka allow me to amplify fresh voices on a global scale.
From Indie to Iconic: Zhu’s Cinematic Legacy
Zhu doesn’t just fund films—she redefines the industry from the inside out. Her end-to-end approach ensures that projects move seamlessly from concept to completion, bridging the gap between independent vision and commercial success. In an industry where many indie filmmakers struggle for visibility, Zhu is clearing a path forward. Shaping the Future, One Story at a Time For Zhu, cinema is not just about storytelling—it’s about shaping culture. Whether spotlighting emerging talent at AWFF or backing groundbreaking projects like Leléka, she is proving that powerful narratives deserve a global stage. With an eye for the extraordinary and an unwavering dedication to artistic excellence,
Xufang Zhu known to the industry as Jamie Zhu is not just producing films; she’s shaping the future of cinema.
