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INTERVIEW
Born in Malang and raised in various places across the world , Livi Zheng talks to Colours about her challenging journey to reach the peak of Hollywood .
Livi Zheng joined the ranks of internationally recognised Indonesian filmmakers when Brush with Danger , a film she wrote , directed , produced and starred in , made the list of movies to be considered for Best Movie nominations at the 2015 Academy Awards . Brush with Danger follows the struggles of illegal immigrant siblings in the United States . The siblings – the elder being a painter and the younger a fighter – get involved in a dangerous liaison with a businessman who forges the works of international painters .
In writing the story , Zheng was inspired by an African friend who fled from war to the US , while the sibling relationship in the movie is based on her own relationship with her brother , Ken . At a very young age , they had lived in Beijing , away from their parents and family members . According to Zheng , she did not speak any Mandarin at the time .
Zheng ’ s experience of living around the world has in turn inspired her creative process and enabled her to adapt to different cultures and environments . “ My experiences living in three big countries , Indonesia , China and the US , has not only enriched my life but also allowed me to see the fascinating humanities of the three countries ’ cultures . It affects my filmmaking process ,” she says . “ The Indonesian culture really accentuates intimacy . During meals , we eat together at a big table – family style . I shared such habits with the crew . I also introduced Indonesian traditional food .” In her latest movie , Insight , she even features the Indonesian martial art silat .
Before settling in the film industry , Zheng had studied martial arts at the Beijing Shichahai Sports School , which counts venerable martial artists like Jet Li among its alumni . “ I am honoured to have achieved 26 medals and trophies from various martial arts competitions . The championships include the USA World Championship in Las Vegas and the US Open in Florida .”
She then decided to study economics at the University of Washington – Seattle , the alma