We’re joined by Actress, Martial Artist, Producer and Director, Maria Tran. She’s also the Founder and Director of Phoenix Eye Films, a female led film and media production company that represents culturally diverse artists based in Western Sydney.
In this episode, Maria takes us back to the beginning of her journey, how she navigated through the film industry, refined her skills around martial arts and what it took to start Phoenix Eye Films.
She also shares a story about the time Jackie Chan took her on a road trip and gave her some Asian-dad-style life advice.
Maria has directed and produced multiple award-winning films such as "Operation Kung Flu", "My Mother, The Action Star" and "Obsidian". She has also worked as a stunt attachment alongside Jackie Chan in his film “Bleeding Steel.” Most recently, Maria joins the cast of Paramount+ Australia’s 10-part drama series “Last King of the Cross”.
00:00 - Intro
01:06 - Maria’s Backstory
04:14 - Maria’s Screenwriting Sister
08:33 - Receiving Creative Support from Parents
09:15 - Maria’s Psychology Degree & Film Break
11:00 - Navigating Through the Film Industry
15:18 - Developing Her Skills & Work Ethic
18:06 - Starting Phoenix Eye & Getting into Martial Arts
21:21 - Asians in the Film Industry
25:05 - Starting Phoenix Eye
30:58 - Echo Eight
33:14 - Maria’s Creative Inspiration
37:00 - Gaining Confidence
42:53 - Maria’s Performance Coaching Workshops
46:16 - Dealing With Racism & Prejudice
55:41 - The Future of Asians in the Media
59:50 - Maria’s Advice for Gen-Z Asians Breaking into the Industry
01:01:48 - Maria’s Future Upcoming Plans
01:04:39 - Outro
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