JINGYI SHAO
Jing’s love of storytelling began on the floor of the library. The only child of immigrants, reading stories was his way of feeling less lonely and learning the ways of America. This love eventually transferred to filmmaking which he saw as a means to not only entertain others but also to free those hard to express thoughts and feelings within himself.
Jing kicked off his career during an impromptu trip to China where odd jobs on set somehow led to him directing commercials for global brands such as Levi’s, Johnnie Walker and Cartier. His commercial and shorts work would receive recognition at the Cannes Lions, D&AD and HBO Visionaries. He credits his time in China for giving him the experience and self-knowledge he needed to pursue his ultimate dream of writing and directing narrative work.
Since returning to the US, Jing has explored both TV and Film. He was a staff writer on the inaugural season of the BET show Boomerang and directed two episodes of its sister show Twenties. His original screenplay Chang Can Dunk was named to the 2020 Black List and was eventually developed as Disney+ Original. For his directorial work on Chang Can Dunk, Jing was recently named to Variety’s 10 Directors to Watch 2023. With projects for Amazon, Netflix and others in development, Jing is passionate about telling intimate, personal stories that nevertheless have universal appeal and bringing the marginalized and underdogs of the world into mainstream focus.
Awards & Press
Variety 10 Directors to Watch 2023
Chang Can Dunk places 2nd on 2020 Black List
Armed With a Camera Fellow 2018
D&AD Next Director Showcase 2016
Winner - Young Director Award, First Prize - Cannes Lions 2015