The film "Left-Handed" can be viewed not only as a story about how difficult it is to be different but also as a deep reflection on individuality, self-acceptance, and the right to remain true to oneself in a world that strives for conformism.
During the conversation, director Shi-Chin and producer Sean Baker share personal experiences, views on independent cinema, and the theme of inner freedom, discussing how "left-handedness" can become a source of strength.
Conversation
Asel: Thank you very much for the opportunity to talk about cinema with you.
Shi-Chin Tsou, Sean Baker: Thank you.
Asel: Sean, you have a long-standing collaboration with Shi-Chin. What do you think makes "Left-Handed" her unique creation?
Sean Baker: The essence of the film lies in her. The story emerged from her life and her personal experience. I am here to help her convey her story to the audience. This is her vision, and it is clearly evident in the film.
Asel: Thank you! If you could leave one message for girls with a "wrong" hand, what would you say to them?
Shi-Chin Tsou: I would say that it is essential to ignore external opinions. Trust yourself and embrace your uniqueness. Being different is okay. Just be yourself.
Asel: Great. And for both of you, what do you consider the most "left-handed" aspect of your life? What is the most authentic part of you?
Shi-Chin Tsou, Sean Baker: Oh, that's a tough question. Are you referring not just to the left hand?
Asel: Yes, in a broader sense—left-handedness.
Sean Baker: Then it seems you should start first.
Shi-Chin Tsou: You know, I was born left-handed, but I was retrained. In Taiwan, they tried to correct me not only in this but in other aspects of life as well. I tried to adapt when I moved to New York, and now I remind myself: "Be yourself and don't pay attention to the noise around." It has been a long process.
Sean Baker: That is indeed a complex question. I would relate it to the filmmaking process. For a long time, I thought I had to follow certain paths to break into the industry, but after several independent projects, I learned to embrace my outsider role. I realized that I am an independent director, and that took time.
Asel: Have you learned anything new about women's emotional labor by looking at this film and through the lens of Shi-Chin?
Sean Baker: Absolutely. Patriarchy still exists, and it manifests even in the small details of everyday life. It is important to tell these stories through engaging narratives to address these significant themes.
Asel: Thank you very much!
Shi-Chin Tsou, Sean Baker: Thank you!
Asel Sherniyazova is the co-founder and managing director of the Asian Film Festival in Los Angeles, as well as a member of the advisory board of the Golden Globe Awards from AKIpress.
Trailer for the film "Left-Handed":
