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MILLA NGUYEN

FILMMAKER & EDITOR IN CHIEF

ECLIPSE YOUR RECORD

LOYOLA MARYMOUNT UNIVERSITY X MILLA NGUYEN

#LMUxMillaNguyen #IgniteABrighterWorld #LMU #film

LOYOLA MARYMOUNT UNIVERSITY X MILLA NGUYEN

#LMUxMillaNguyen #IgniteABrighterWorld #LMU #film

Back in the office… @allusionmagazine

photography + creative direction by @orlandopelagio

Back in the office… @allusionmagazine

photography + creative direction by @orlandopelagio

The opening of the world & the mind via various artists

The opening of the world & the mind via various artists

LOYOLA MARYMOUNT UNIVERSITY X MILLA NGUYEN

Dreaming with my eyes wide open 💭🪷🪽🎬 (thank you to everyone who sent me these, the best community ever! 💌)

#LMUxMillaNguyen #IgniteABrighterWorld #LMU #film

LOYOLA MARYMOUNT UNIVERSITY X MILLA NGUYEN

Dreaming with my eyes wide open 💭🪷🪽🎬 (thank you to everyone who sent me these, the best community ever! 💌)

#LMUxMillaNguyen #IgniteABrighterWorld #LMU #film

LOYOLA MARYMOUNT UNIVERSITY X MILLA NGUYEN

Milla Nguyen, M.F.A ‘26 is on a mission to open doors for others in the film industry.

A graduate student in the @lmusftv screenwriting program, Nguyen is passionate about representing Asian Pacific Islander (API) and Vietnamese- American communities through her screenwriting and directorial projects, as well as spotlighting up-and-coming filmmakers through her new digital publication, Allusion Magazine.

Nguyen, her faculty advisor, mentor, and LMU’s Graduate Director of the M.F.A Screenwriting Program, Weiko Lin, and a team of LMU faculty and student writers and creatives, launched the first issue of the magazine in November 2024. The first issue features both established entertainment leaders including Tony Bui, Keshia Hannam, Shruti Parekh, Gabriela Dematteis, and Karen Joseph Adcock and emerging filmmakers, many of whom are LMU students or young alumni.

“Allusion Magazine is a platform that I built that uplifts established filmmakers, but most of all, rising young filmmakers” she said. “If the magazine could help even just a little bit of the people at LMU, that’s all I want. It doesn’t need to be famous, but it serves a meaningful purpose that can help more people like me get their foot in the door, that will make me happy.”

Nguyen credits her mentorship with Lin and her LMU experience, specifically the university’s Jesuit values, supportive environment and inclusive atmosphere, for being instrumental in her academic and professional development.

Producers: Melissa Estrada and Sierra Williams
Creative Director & Photography: Jon Rou
Director of Photography: Yoshi Ysa
Stylist: Diana Ysa
Makeup & Hair: Gabriela Banda

#LMUxMillaNguyen #IgniteABrighterWorld #LMU #film

LOYOLA MARYMOUNT UNIVERSITY X MILLA NGUYEN

Milla Nguyen, M.F.A ‘26 is on a mission to open doors for others in the film industry.

A graduate student in the @lmusftv screenwriting program, Nguyen is passionate about representing Asian Pacific Islander (API) and Vietnamese- American communities through her screenwriting and directorial projects, as well as spotlighting up-and-coming filmmakers through her new digital publication, Allusion Magazine.

Nguyen, her faculty advisor, mentor, and LMU’s Graduate Director of the M.F.A Screenwriting Program, Weiko Lin, and a team of LMU faculty and student writers and creatives, launched the first issue of the magazine in November 2024. The first issue features both established entertainment leaders including Tony Bui, Keshia Hannam, Shruti Parekh, Gabriela Dematteis, and Karen Joseph Adcock and emerging filmmakers, many of whom are LMU students or young alumni.

“Allusion Magazine is a platform that I built that uplifts established filmmakers, but most of all, rising young filmmakers” she said. “If the magazine could help even just a little bit of the people at LMU, that’s all I want. It doesn’t need to be famous, but it serves a meaningful purpose that can help more people like me get their foot in the door, that will make me happy.”

Nguyen credits her mentorship with Lin and her LMU experience, specifically the university’s Jesuit values, supportive environment and inclusive atmosphere, for being instrumental in her academic and professional development.

Producers: Melissa Estrada and Sierra Williams
Creative Director & Photography: Jon Rou
Director of Photography: Yoshi Ysa
Stylist: Diana Ysa
Makeup & Hair: Gabriela Banda

#LMUxMillaNguyen #IgniteABrighterWorld #LMU #film

LOYOLA MARYMOUNT UNIVERSITY X MILLA NGUYEN

“A creator. A collaborator. A visionary. Meet more lions like Milla Nguyen, M.F.A ‘26 who are creating a brighter future for all.”

I don’t have enough words to describe how I feel about this! I am so incredibly ecstatic and honored to be featured and selected as an ambassador for the School of Film and Television for Ignite a Brighter World at LMU. I might not be someone right now but with LMU’s belief and trust in me, makes me believe I can be someone one day. I have a long way to go and there’s still so much I want to do, but I want to acknowledge all the people who helped me get here. Thank you to SFTV, Professor Weiko Lin, Dean Moore, and all of my faculty & industry mentors. Thank you to my friends who have supported me and my family, especially my parents and sister who love me unconditionally.

When I was a kid, I didn’t have a strong grasp on my identity and values. As an adult, I’m sure every Asian American kid has gone through an identity crisis. I felt that I was always teetering between the words “Asian” and “American”. I didn’t fit into the usual beauty standards at the time. Now, I can say with confidence that I’m so grateful to LMU for extending a hand to little kid Milla and adult Milla. I’m only in my early 20s, I’d never imagine it would be my face on billboards, on buses, the metro rail, street banners, BMO stadium, LAX airport, and more. It’s a dream come true to have my billboard in the center of Hollywood, on Hollywood Boulevard itself.

A tremendous thank you to the team. To the producers: Melissa, Sierra, and Shelbey for taking a chance on me. To Jon, for his immense dedication and powerful spirit in the creative direction + photography. To Yoshi, a talented DP and editor who tirelessly shot with me all of the city. To Diana, who styled me with an impeccable vision and voice. To Gabriela, who did my hair and makeup with such detail and care. They all made me feel truly beautiful in the most important time of my life.

I am proud to call LMU my home, truly a castle on the bluff 🏰🐉🦁

#LMUxMillaNguyen #IgniteABrighterWorld #LMU
#film

https://brighter.lmu.edu/uplifting-rising-filmmakers/

LOYOLA MARYMOUNT UNIVERSITY X MILLA NGUYEN

“A creator. A collaborator. A visionary. Meet more lions like Milla Nguyen, M.F.A ‘26 who are creating a brighter future for all.”

I don’t have enough words to describe how I feel about this! I am so incredibly ecstatic and honored to be featured and selected as an ambassador for the School of Film and Television for Ignite a Brighter World at LMU. I might not be someone right now but with LMU’s belief and trust in me, makes me believe I can be someone one day. I have a long way to go and there’s still so much I want to do, but I want to acknowledge all the people who helped me get here. Thank you to SFTV, Professor Weiko Lin, Dean Moore, and all of my faculty & industry mentors. Thank you to my friends who have supported me and my family, especially my parents and sister who love me unconditionally.

When I was a kid, I didn’t have a strong grasp on my identity and values. As an adult, I’m sure every Asian American kid has gone through an identity crisis. I felt that I was always teetering between the words “Asian” and “American”. I didn’t fit into the usual beauty standards at the time. Now, I can say with confidence that I’m so grateful to LMU for extending a hand to little kid Milla and adult Milla. I’m only in my early 20s, I’d never imagine it would be my face on billboards, on buses, the metro rail, street banners, BMO stadium, LAX airport, and more. It’s a dream come true to have my billboard in the center of Hollywood, on Hollywood Boulevard itself.

A tremendous thank you to the team. To the producers: Melissa, Sierra, and Shelbey for taking a chance on me. To Jon, for his immense dedication and powerful spirit in the creative direction + photography. To Yoshi, a talented DP and editor who tirelessly shot with me all of the city. To Diana, who styled me with an impeccable vision and voice. To Gabriela, who did my hair and makeup with such detail and care. They all made me feel truly beautiful in the most important time of my life.

I am proud to call LMU my home, truly a castle on the bluff 🏰🐉🦁

#LMUxMillaNguyen #IgniteABrighterWorld #LMU
#film

https://brighter.lmu.edu/uplifting-rising-filmmakers/

[𝐖𝐀𝐃𝐈𝐍𝐆 𝐓𝐇𝐑𝐎𝐔𝐆𝐇 𝐅𝐎𝐑𝐄𝐒𝐓, 𝐖𝐀𝐓𝐄𝐑, 𝐀𝐍𝐃 𝐀𝐈𝐑 𝐓𝐄𝐌𝐏𝐋𝐄𝐒 𝐀𝐓 𝐁𝐈𝐒𝐌𝐀 𝐄𝐈𝐆𝐇𝐓 𝐇𝐎𝐓𝐄𝐋]

Traveling to Bali, Indonesia with my family for the very first time is nothing but a dream. The island is not only a beautiful vacation spot but a place where we could immerse ourselves in Balinese culture, food, and heritage sites. From hiking forest waterfalls, learning about religion in long standing temples, and catching the surf on beaches, it’s truly amazing. Our stay at Bisma Eight hotel in Ubud has been so luxurious, and most of all, the hospitality is 10/10. The Balinese people are some of the kindest people I’ve ever met. Of course, being kind and breaking bread with people in the community has always been a central component in Asian culture, especially where my family comes from as well. We will definitely be coming back 🌳🌊🌬️ @bismaeight #bismaeightubud

Photography captured by: @pixels_bali

[𝐖𝐀𝐃𝐈𝐍𝐆 𝐓𝐇𝐑𝐎𝐔𝐆𝐇 𝐅𝐎𝐑𝐄𝐒𝐓, 𝐖𝐀𝐓𝐄𝐑, 𝐀𝐍𝐃 𝐀𝐈𝐑 𝐓𝐄𝐌𝐏𝐋𝐄𝐒 𝐀𝐓 𝐁𝐈𝐒𝐌𝐀 𝐄𝐈𝐆𝐇𝐓 𝐇𝐎𝐓𝐄𝐋]

Traveling to Bali, Indonesia with my family for the very first time is nothing but a dream. The island is not only a beautiful vacation spot but a place where we could immerse ourselves in Balinese culture, food, and heritage sites. From hiking forest waterfalls, learning about religion in long standing temples, and catching the surf on beaches, it’s truly amazing. Our stay at Bisma Eight hotel in Ubud has been so luxurious, and most of all, the hospitality is 10/10. The Balinese people are some of the kindest people I’ve ever met. Of course, being kind and breaking bread with people in the community has always been a central component in Asian culture, especially where my family comes from as well. We will definitely be coming back 🌳🌊🌬️ @bismaeight #bismaeightubud

Photography captured by: @pixels_bali

ALLUSION MAGAZINE — THE VICARIOUS COLUMN PRESENTS: ELIZABETH AI

Elizabeth Ai is a Chinese Vietnamese American award-winning filmmaker, storyteller, and author. Her debut feature documentary, New Wave, premiered at the 2024 Tribeca Film Festival, earning a Special Jury Mention for Best New Documentary Director.

Photography by: Evan Odinsoff
Videography by: Michael Kokorine

Read her full story in Issue 2 — link in bio

ALLUSION MAGAZINE — THE VICARIOUS COLUMN PRESENTS: ELIZABETH AI

Elizabeth Ai is a Chinese Vietnamese American award-winning filmmaker, storyteller, and author. Her debut feature documentary, New Wave, premiered at the 2024 Tribeca Film Festival, earning a Special Jury Mention for Best New Documentary Director.

Photography by: Evan Odinsoff
Videography by: Michael Kokorine

Read her full story in Issue 2 — link in bio

ALLUSION MAGAZINE — THE VICARIOUS COLUMN PRESENTS: JAMIL AKIM O’QUINN

Compton Native Jamil Akim O’Quinn is a Black, Queer, neurodivergent writer with a penchant for writing stories about characters in worlds where they don’t fit in. He is a writer on CBS’s S.W.A.T and his other work includes NCIS: Los Angeles & The Equalizer.

Photography by: Evan Odinsoff
Videography by: Evan Odinsoff

Read his full story in Issue 2 — link in bio

ALLUSION MAGAZINE — THE VICARIOUS COLUMN PRESENTS: JAMIL AKIM O’QUINN

Compton Native Jamil Akim O’Quinn is a Black, Queer, neurodivergent writer with a penchant for writing stories about characters in worlds where they don’t fit in. He is a writer on CBS’s S.W.A.T and his other work includes NCIS: Los Angeles & The Equalizer.

Photography by: Evan Odinsoff
Videography by: Evan Odinsoff

Read his full story in Issue 2 — link in bio

ALLUSION MAGAZINE — THE VICARIOUS COLUMN PRESENTS: RIPPIN SINDHER + ARCHIE PANJABI

Rippin Sindher is a fearless filmmaker who fuses sociology with cinema to ignite impactful conversations around justice and identity. Her short film, FLIGHT 182, is a finalist and winner of the CAPE x Janet Yang Productions x Julia Gouw Short Film Challenge.

Archie Panjabi made history as the first Asian Actor to win a Primetime Emmy for acting, earning acclaim for her role as Kalinda Sharma on the CBS drama The Good Wife. Her acting portfolio includes: Bend it Like Beckham, A Mighty Heart, Under the Bridge, and more.

Photography by: Evan Odinsoff
Videography by: Michael Kokorine

Read their full story in Issue 2 — link in bio

ALLUSION MAGAZINE — THE VICARIOUS COLUMN PRESENTS: RIPPIN SINDHER + ARCHIE PANJABI

Rippin Sindher is a fearless filmmaker who fuses sociology with cinema to ignite impactful conversations around justice and identity. Her short film, FLIGHT 182, is a finalist and winner of the CAPE x Janet Yang Productions x Julia Gouw Short Film Challenge.

Archie Panjabi made history as the first Asian Actor to win a Primetime Emmy for acting, earning acclaim for her role as Kalinda Sharma on the CBS drama The Good Wife. Her acting portfolio includes: Bend it Like Beckham, A Mighty Heart, Under the Bridge, and more.

Photography by: Evan Odinsoff
Videography by: Michael Kokorine

Read their full story in Issue 2 — link in bio

ALLUSION MAGAZINE — THE VICARIOUS COLUMN PRESENTS: AMANDA OVERTON

Amanda Overton is an esteemed Executive Producer and television writer. She has led writers’ rooms on multiple record-breaking series such as Netflix’s & Riot Games + League of Legend’s Arcane, Apple TV’s Severance Season 1, and Monarch: Legacy of Monsters, and more.

Photography by: Evan Odinsoff Videography
Videography: Michael Kokorine

Read her full story in Issue 2 — link in bio

ALLUSION MAGAZINE — THE VICARIOUS COLUMN PRESENTS: AMANDA OVERTON

Amanda Overton is an esteemed Executive Producer and television writer. She has led writers’ rooms on multiple record-breaking series such as Netflix’s & Riot Games + League of Legend’s Arcane, Apple TV’s Severance Season 1, and Monarch: Legacy of Monsters, and more.

Photography by: Evan Odinsoff Videography
Videography: Michael Kokorine

Read her full story in Issue 2 — link in bio

The wait is finally over! When people ask my team and I if producing issues gets any easier, my answer is no. Hundreds of hours of work from writing, designing, and capturing guests is no easy feat and I’m proud to unveil our highly anticipated Issue 2. Read it now on our website — linked in my bio and on @allusionmagazine

I worked closely with @odinsoffphotography @michaelkokorine @kurtis_williams_ to level up the production value of our vision and I believe it was a success. It’s proof that teamwork & shared beliefs in a single dream can make it happen.

Our writers who contributed to this issue spent long hours writing, interviewing, and drafting. Their articles give a personal perspective in the industry we care so much about. Jacob Chandler, Maria Murphy, Anusha Natarajan, and Kurtis Williams.

Our Vicarious Column headliners are a group of people I deeply respect, admire, and aspire to be like in the future. I am deeply honored to feature our cover star: Amanda Overton, the Co-Executive Producer of Arcane and producer & writer on Severance season 1. She is also the Co-Executive Producer of Monarch: Legacy of Monsters. We are beyond grateful that Riot Games allowed us to capture her at their Los Angeles headquarters.

Rippin Sindher & Archie Panjabi
Jamil Akim O’Quinn
Elizabeth Ai

All of these guests mean so much to me in so many different ways; because I’ve watched them break barriers in the industry for those around them. They are extremely dedicated to creating stories that highlight what it means to be human.

Our Underrated Rising Stars who will be the next gen to change the industry for the better. All four are extremely wise, successful, and have helped their communities immensely.

Nathan Xia
Fiori Carmen
Dustin Muenchow
Lu Cheng

This is a wrap on Issue 2, but not a wrap on the mission we continue to uphold. I’m so happy we’re able to do good and to shine a light on filmmakers of all walks of life. Thank you so much for sticking around and supporting us along the way. It means the world to me ❤️📖🌍

The wait is finally over! When people ask my team and I if producing issues gets any easier, my answer is no. Hundreds of hours of work from writing, designing, and capturing guests is no easy feat and I’m proud to unveil our highly anticipated Issue 2. Read it now on our website — linked in my bio and on @allusionmagazine

I worked closely with @odinsoffphotography @michaelkokorine @kurtis_williams_ to level up the production value of our vision and I believe it was a success. It’s proof that teamwork & shared beliefs in a single dream can make it happen.

Our writers who contributed to this issue spent long hours writing, interviewing, and drafting. Their articles give a personal perspective in the industry we care so much about. Jacob Chandler, Maria Murphy, Anusha Natarajan, and Kurtis Williams.

Our Vicarious Column headliners are a group of people I deeply respect, admire, and aspire to be like in the future. I am deeply honored to feature our cover star: Amanda Overton, the Co-Executive Producer of Arcane and producer & writer on Severance season 1. She is also the Co-Executive Producer of Monarch: Legacy of Monsters. We are beyond grateful that Riot Games allowed us to capture her at their Los Angeles headquarters.

Rippin Sindher & Archie Panjabi
Jamil Akim O’Quinn
Elizabeth Ai

All of these guests mean so much to me in so many different ways; because I’ve watched them break barriers in the industry for those around them. They are extremely dedicated to creating stories that highlight what it means to be human.

Our Underrated Rising Stars who will be the next gen to change the industry for the better. All four are extremely wise, successful, and have helped their communities immensely.

Nathan Xia
Fiori Carmen
Dustin Muenchow
Lu Cheng

This is a wrap on Issue 2, but not a wrap on the mission we continue to uphold. I’m so happy we’re able to do good and to shine a light on filmmakers of all walks of life. Thank you so much for sticking around and supporting us along the way. It means the world to me ❤️📖🌍

𝖄𝖔𝖚 𝖋𝖔𝖗𝖌𝖊𝖙, 𝕴 𝖆𝖑𝖜𝖆𝖞𝖘 𝖗𝖎𝖘𝖊 𝖆𝖇𝖔𝖛𝖊 ⚔️🐉🩸

photography + creative direction by the most talented & wonderous @orlandopelagio

𝖄𝖔𝖚 𝖋𝖔𝖗𝖌𝖊𝖙, 𝕴 𝖆𝖑𝖜𝖆𝖞𝖘 𝖗𝖎𝖘𝖊 𝖆𝖇𝖔𝖛𝖊 ⚔️🐉🩸

photography + creative direction by the most talented & wonderous @orlandopelagio

It was an incredible honor to accept the New Outstanding Organization of the Year award at yesterday’s Student Academic, Service, and Leadership Awards Convocation. I am forever grateful to Loyola Marymount University, the Student Affairs office, SFTV, Dean Moore, and Professor Weiko Lin.

Last but not least, all the friends, peers, and mentors who have supported us along the way. As ironic as it sounds, I don’t believe that awards are an accurate marker of success because there’s people in the world who do meaningful work but don’t always receive an award. At the same time, the awards do represent a sense of perseverance. On the flip side, it’s proof that our shared vision and our community is doing something right; and that we’re actively contributing to others’ lives. That’s worth more than any award. Still, I’m so glad. Thank you to my team; specifically, Kurtis, Evan, Anna, Anusha, Maria, Jacob, Davis, Asmar, and Kahlil. And to those who will join us in the future. This one’s for us!!!!

It was an incredible honor to accept the New Outstanding Organization of the Year award at yesterday’s Student Academic, Service, and Leadership Awards Convocation. I am forever grateful to Loyola Marymount University, the Student Affairs office, SFTV, Dean Moore, and Professor Weiko Lin.

Last but not least, all the friends, peers, and mentors who have supported us along the way. As ironic as it sounds, I don’t believe that awards are an accurate marker of success because there’s people in the world who do meaningful work but don’t always receive an award. At the same time, the awards do represent a sense of perseverance. On the flip side, it’s proof that our shared vision and our community is doing something right; and that we’re actively contributing to others’ lives. That’s worth more than any award. Still, I’m so glad. Thank you to my team; specifically, Kurtis, Evan, Anna, Anusha, Maria, Jacob, Davis, Asmar, and Kahlil. And to those who will join us in the future. This one’s for us!!!!

The Allusion Magazine Launch Party: Filmmakers’ Ball

Videography by our wonderfully talented Director of Visual Media, Evan Odinsoff @odinsoffphotography + brilliant, talented, filmer Ethan Chang @e_channg ⭐️📖🎥

The Allusion Magazine Launch Party: Filmmakers’ Ball

Videography by our wonderfully talented Director of Visual Media, Evan Odinsoff @odinsoffphotography + brilliant, talented, filmer Ethan Chang @e_channg ⭐️📖🎥

For the past couple of months, my heart has been full of gratitude, joy, and passion. This night will definitely be one for the books. Thank you to everyone who attended the Allusion Magazine Launch Party: Filmmakers’ Ball that my team and I hosted @loyolamarymount @lmusftv 🎬📖⭐️

Something I deeply reflect on is that I feel like we’ve lived so many lives as the young people of this world, from going to college then to grad school, the pandemic, ever-changing politics, life moments, etc. And through all of that, one thing is for sure. I have never let the idea of “what if this fails?” stop me from being able to change an outcome. And honestly, I remain inspired by those in my life to carry the same courage within me. My team and I poured everything we had in to this magazine despite people feeling hesitant about our vision. It sounds silly but event planning is really hard. It’s one of the hardest things we’ve ever had to do. And yet, this night was not a celebration of me but what we did as a whole and all the peers/ friends who have supported us on this journey.

My personal philosophy is that the key to success aren’t fame and money. Despite what we see in media. It’s your village, the community, the people who stand with you unafraid when you’re not at the top. It’s also your passion, your drive, and for me, the refusal to give up. I’m truly blessed to have put this on with Evan, Kurtis, Anna, Maria, and Jacob. Special thank you to Mike, Christian, and Gabriela for supporting me & us. While we won’t have another launch party in a while, my team and I will continue to help people where we can. Celebrate others. Try to get people together. And make our experiences even more worthwhile than they already are.

Once again, it’s been a wild ride the last couple of months. I appreciate everyone who showed up for me and who continues to, there’s so much more to come! Also if you don’t follow us already, feel free @allusionmagazine

Photography captured by: @michaelkokorine
Hair design by: @contrabandamakeup
Wardrobe by: my mom, who knows me best 🫶🏼

For the past couple of months, my heart has been full of gratitude, joy, and passion. This night will definitely be one for the books. Thank you to everyone who attended the Allusion Magazine Launch Party: Filmmakers’ Ball that my team and I hosted @loyolamarymount @lmusftv 🎬📖⭐️

Something I deeply reflect on is that I feel like we’ve lived so many lives as the young people of this world, from going to college then to grad school, the pandemic, ever-changing politics, life moments, etc. And through all of that, one thing is for sure. I have never let the idea of “what if this fails?” stop me from being able to change an outcome. And honestly, I remain inspired by those in my life to carry the same courage within me. My team and I poured everything we had in to this magazine despite people feeling hesitant about our vision. It sounds silly but event planning is really hard. It’s one of the hardest things we’ve ever had to do. And yet, this night was not a celebration of me but what we did as a whole and all the peers/ friends who have supported us on this journey.

My personal philosophy is that the key to success aren’t fame and money. Despite what we see in media. It’s your village, the community, the people who stand with you unafraid when you’re not at the top. It’s also your passion, your drive, and for me, the refusal to give up. I’m truly blessed to have put this on with Evan, Kurtis, Anna, Maria, and Jacob. Special thank you to Mike, Christian, and Gabriela for supporting me & us. While we won’t have another launch party in a while, my team and I will continue to help people where we can. Celebrate others. Try to get people together. And make our experiences even more worthwhile than they already are.

Once again, it’s been a wild ride the last couple of months. I appreciate everyone who showed up for me and who continues to, there’s so much more to come! Also if you don’t follow us already, feel free @allusionmagazine

Photography captured by: @michaelkokorine
Hair design by: @contrabandamakeup
Wardrobe by: my mom, who knows me best 🫶🏼

This weekend was one of the most culturally rich and introspective experiences I’ve had in my life. I’d like to give my most grateful thanks to @vietfilmfest x @vaalacommunity x @ocpubliclibraries x @thefridacinema for screening my undergraduate thesis film, I Want You to Live and for inviting me to come speak on the filmmakers’ panel.

My parents & family immigrated during the Vietnam War to the United States with nothing but the clothes on their backs. They persevered and raised the children in the family the “American” way. So that we could speak English fluently and catch on at school. In Arizona, I felt distant from my culture and my community. Things I grew up with; watching anime, listening to k-pop, eating Vietnamese foods in public, this was made fun of until it became mainstream the last few years. While I’m so happy Asian media & the Asian identity is globalized, I’ve learned so much more from this experience. The idea that filmmaking is about intimate community and not always the flashy red carpet events. I am able to educate people about the Vietnamese refugee experience. I am able to screen write stories that have Vietnamese leads who don’t have a traumatic war background and can exist as normal people.

I haven’t always been good at using my voice. Still, since moving to California, I’ve been welcomed by the AAPI community so warmly, I owe parts of my career to my Asian mentors, filmmakers, and friends. People I look up to. And Viet Film Fest specifically (Eric, Ms. Ysa, Ms. Julie, Corey, etc.) as they have been an immense part of this greater support than I could ever imagine. Because of them, I could use my voice to open a discussion with same-age peers, Viet elders, and non-Asian attendees.

In one of the films we saw, the documentary subject said, “When I’m on the Jiu Jitsu mat, I feel closer to God.” In my opinion, I feel closer to God, to who I want to be, what I’m doing, and how I can help uplift others. Thank you to everyone that came out to support and approached me afterwards to tell me your thoughts. It means so much 🪷🫶🏼

This weekend was one of the most culturally rich and introspective experiences I’ve had in my life. I’d like to give my most grateful thanks to @vietfilmfest x @vaalacommunity x @ocpubliclibraries x @thefridacinema for screening my undergraduate thesis film, I Want You to Live and for inviting me to come speak on the filmmakers’ panel.

My parents & family immigrated during the Vietnam War to the United States with nothing but the clothes on their backs. They persevered and raised the children in the family the “American” way. So that we could speak English fluently and catch on at school. In Arizona, I felt distant from my culture and my community. Things I grew up with; watching anime, listening to k-pop, eating Vietnamese foods in public, this was made fun of until it became mainstream the last few years. While I’m so happy Asian media & the Asian identity is globalized, I’ve learned so much more from this experience. The idea that filmmaking is about intimate community and not always the flashy red carpet events. I am able to educate people about the Vietnamese refugee experience. I am able to screen write stories that have Vietnamese leads who don’t have a traumatic war background and can exist as normal people.

I haven’t always been good at using my voice. Still, since moving to California, I’ve been welcomed by the AAPI community so warmly, I owe parts of my career to my Asian mentors, filmmakers, and friends. People I look up to. And Viet Film Fest specifically (Eric, Ms. Ysa, Ms. Julie, Corey, etc.) as they have been an immense part of this greater support than I could ever imagine. Because of them, I could use my voice to open a discussion with same-age peers, Viet elders, and non-Asian attendees.

In one of the films we saw, the documentary subject said, “When I’m on the Jiu Jitsu mat, I feel closer to God.” In my opinion, I feel closer to God, to who I want to be, what I’m doing, and how I can help uplift others. Thank you to everyone that came out to support and approached me afterwards to tell me your thoughts. It means so much 🪷🫶🏼

ALLUSION MAGAZINE — THE VICARIOUS COLUMN PRESENTS: GABRIELA DEMATTEIS

Gabriela Dematteis is a Emmy award winning producer. She is also an alumna of the Loyola Marymount production program. She has worked for various companies such as VICE media, Sundance, Tribeca, Paramount Pictures, and more. She won an Emmy Award for Oustanding Feature Story in Spanish, titled, Ritos De Paseje | Sicarios.

Photography by: Holly Fischer

Read her full story in Issue 1 — link in bio.

ALLUSION MAGAZINE — THE VICARIOUS COLUMN PRESENTS: GABRIELA DEMATTEIS

Gabriela Dematteis is a Emmy award winning producer. She is also an alumna of the Loyola Marymount production program. She has worked for various companies such as VICE media, Sundance, Tribeca, Paramount Pictures, and more. She won an Emmy Award for Oustanding Feature Story in Spanish, titled, Ritos De Paseje | Sicarios.

Photography by: Holly Fischer

Read her full story in Issue 1 — link in bio.

ALLUSION MAGAZINE — THE VICARIOUS COLUMN PRESENTS: SHRUTI PAREKH

Shruti Parekh is an Atlanta bred, Brooklyn based filmmaker and artist. Her short film, Zari, won the Grand Jury and Audience award at NewFest. She is also a winner and finalist of the CAPE x Janet Yang Productions x Julia Gouw Short Film Challenge.

Photography by: Julian Valgora @jmvalgora

Read her full story in issue 1 — link in bio.

ALLUSION MAGAZINE — THE VICARIOUS COLUMN PRESENTS: SHRUTI PAREKH

Shruti Parekh is an Atlanta bred, Brooklyn based filmmaker and artist. Her short film, Zari, won the Grand Jury and Audience award at NewFest. She is also a winner and finalist of the CAPE x Janet Yang Productions x Julia Gouw Short Film Challenge.

Photography by: Julian Valgora @jmvalgora

Read her full story in issue 1 — link in bio.

ALLUSION MAGAZINE — THE VICARIOUS COLUMN PRESENTS: KAREN JOSEPH ADCOCK

Karen Joseph Adcock is an award-winning television
and feature writer in the industry. Her work includes: The Bear, Atlanta, Swarm, Yellowjackets, and more.

Photography by: Evan Odinsoff @odinsoffphotography

Read her full story in issue 1 — link in bio.

ALLUSION MAGAZINE — THE VICARIOUS COLUMN PRESENTS: KAREN JOSEPH ADCOCK

Karen Joseph Adcock is an award-winning television
and feature writer in the industry. Her work includes: The Bear, Atlanta, Swarm, Yellowjackets, and more.

Photography by: Evan Odinsoff @odinsoffphotography

Read her full story in issue 1 — link in bio.

ALLUSION MAGAZINE — THE VICARIOUS COLUMN PRESENTS: KESHIA HANNAM

Keshia Hannam is the Editor in Chief of Eastern Standard Times. She is also a multi faceted filmmaker. EST is a global company that creates video content that challenges narratives about Asian people and culture — both at home and through the diaspora.

Photography by: Julian Valgora @jmvalgora

Read her full story in issue 1 — link in bio.

ALLUSION MAGAZINE — THE VICARIOUS COLUMN PRESENTS: KESHIA HANNAM

Keshia Hannam is the Editor in Chief of Eastern Standard Times. She is also a multi faceted filmmaker. EST is a global company that creates video content that challenges narratives about Asian people and culture — both at home and through the diaspora.

Photography by: Julian Valgora @jmvalgora

Read her full story in issue 1 — link in bio.

ALLUSION MAGAZINE — THE VICARIOUS COLUMN PRESENTS: TONY BUI

Tony Bui is a Vietnamese-born American film director, most known for his 1999 film Three Seasons, which debuted at the Sundance Film Festival and became the first ever film to win both an Audience Award and Grand Jury Prize.

Photography by: Julian Valgora @jmvalgora

Read his full story in issue 1 — link in bio.

ALLUSION MAGAZINE — THE VICARIOUS COLUMN PRESENTS: TONY BUI

Tony Bui is a Vietnamese-born American film director, most known for his 1999 film Three Seasons, which debuted at the Sundance Film Festival and became the first ever film to win both an Audience Award and Grand Jury Prize.

Photography by: Julian Valgora @jmvalgora

Read his full story in issue 1 — link in bio.

I’m so incredibly proud and excited to share that Allusion Magazine Issue 1 is now live. This project has been the core of my creative abilities and probably the best thing I’ve ever done. I am my harshest critic and rarely say that. Read it now on our website — linked in my bio and on @allusionmagazine

This is not only a representation of me, but all the people who spent countless hours organizing this. First, @weikolin for pushing me to be my best self. To not give up on my dreams. Next, @kurtis_williams_ @odinsoffphotography @anna_xll @anusha.natarajan.716 who are great friends that I’ll remember for my whole life. Thank you for supporting this & sticking with me (even when things are tough).

Our writers @mariaamurphy @asmar.isayeva @davisgrant8 @kahlilmaskati @jacobchandd thank you for joining us on this incredible journey, we have so much more work of yours to share with the world. It means so much to us.

Our Vicarious Column guests who are dear friends, mentors, and people I highly respect. Thank you for giving me & my team a chance. Thank you for telling us your story and for constantly changing the industry with your work. I’m beyond grateful.

Tony Bui
Keshia Hannam @keshiahannam
Karen Joseph Adcock @ckharyn
Shruti Parekh @shrutiparekh
Gabriela Dematteis @gaby.dema

Our Underrated Rising Stars who will be the next gen to change the industry for the better.

Vahan Bedelian @bedelian.film
Mehrin Saleem meriinini
Makayla Rabago @makayla_rabago
Libby Morehouse @libbymore

And last but not least, all of our wonderfully talented photographers & videographers who poured time, energy, and creativity into our pot. We could have not done it without them. @jmvalgora @orlandopelagio @andy.moves @odinsoffphotography and Holly Fischer.

My last tremendous thank you goes to every single person that has been a part of our story, my story. The faculty members of LMU, ITS studio at LMU, and most of all — our readers, supporters, friends and family. From us to you, thank you. ❤️📖

I’m so incredibly proud and excited to share that Allusion Magazine Issue 1 is now live. This project has been the core of my creative abilities and probably the best thing I’ve ever done. I am my harshest critic and rarely say that. Read it now on our website — linked in my bio and on @allusionmagazine

This is not only a representation of me, but all the people who spent countless hours organizing this. First, @weikolin for pushing me to be my best self. To not give up on my dreams. Next, @kurtis_williams_ @odinsoffphotography @anna_xll @anusha.natarajan.716 who are great friends that I’ll remember for my whole life. Thank you for supporting this & sticking with me (even when things are tough).

Our writers @mariaamurphy @asmar.isayeva @davisgrant8 @kahlilmaskati @jacobchandd thank you for joining us on this incredible journey, we have so much more work of yours to share with the world. It means so much to us.

Our Vicarious Column guests who are dear friends, mentors, and people I highly respect. Thank you for giving me & my team a chance. Thank you for telling us your story and for constantly changing the industry with your work. I’m beyond grateful.

Tony Bui
Keshia Hannam @keshiahannam
Karen Joseph Adcock @ckharyn
Shruti Parekh @shrutiparekh
Gabriela Dematteis @gaby.dema

Our Underrated Rising Stars who will be the next gen to change the industry for the better.

Vahan Bedelian @bedelian.film
Mehrin Saleem meriinini
Makayla Rabago @makayla_rabago
Libby Morehouse @libbymore

And last but not least, all of our wonderfully talented photographers & videographers who poured time, energy, and creativity into our pot. We could have not done it without them. @jmvalgora @orlandopelagio @andy.moves @odinsoffphotography and Holly Fischer.

My last tremendous thank you goes to every single person that has been a part of our story, my story. The faculty members of LMU, ITS studio at LMU, and most of all — our readers, supporters, friends and family. From us to you, thank you. ❤️📖

Introducing the creative team of Allusion Magazine.. made in Los Angeles, representing filmmakers around the globe

Editor in chief: Milla Nguyen @milla_nguyen.co
Faculty advisor: Weiko Lin
Director of visual media: Evan Odinsoff @odinsoffphotography
Director of content: Kurtis Williams @kurtis_williams_
Director of events: Anna Lei @anna_xll
Business & data consultant: Anusha Natarajan @anusha.natarajan.716

Read more about their stories at www.allusionmagazine.com (available on the AM crew page)

Photography & edits by talented photographer: Andrew Castro @acastrophoto

Introducing the creative team of Allusion Magazine.. made in Los Angeles, representing filmmakers around the globe

Editor in chief: Milla Nguyen @milla_nguyen.co
Faculty advisor: Weiko Lin
Director of visual media: Evan Odinsoff @odinsoffphotography
Director of content: Kurtis Williams @kurtis_williams_
Director of events: Anna Lei @anna_xll
Business & data consultant: Anusha Natarajan @anusha.natarajan.716

Read more about their stories at www.allusionmagazine.com (available on the AM crew page)

Photography & edits by talented photographer: Andrew Castro @acastrophoto

[ANDY CORNIELLE X MILLA NGUYEN]

Going to New York on my own was nothing short of an amazing trip: seeing my friends, sightseeing by myself for the first time, and attending the Tribeca film festival. But I was most excited to work with a multitalented force that is @andy.moves. Being a part of the AAPI community will always be an integral part of my work (see the dragon and the bubble tea) All jokes aside, shining light on my Asian heritage in this teaser was a dream come true.

Andy directed, color graded, edited, and shot our Allusion Magazine teaser and it has been amazing working with him to bring this vision to life. I can’t wait to feature more authentic and electric artists like @andy.moves and many others.

Editor in Chief: @milla_nguyen.co
Platform: @allusionmagazine
Director, editor, and director of photography: @andy.moves

[ANDY CORNIELLE X MILLA NGUYEN]

Going to New York on my own was nothing short of an amazing trip: seeing my friends, sightseeing by myself for the first time, and attending the Tribeca film festival. But I was most excited to work with a multitalented force that is @andy.moves. Being a part of the AAPI community will always be an integral part of my work (see the dragon and the bubble tea) All jokes aside, shining light on my Asian heritage in this teaser was a dream come true.

Andy directed, color graded, edited, and shot our Allusion Magazine teaser and it has been amazing working with him to bring this vision to life. I can’t wait to feature more authentic and electric artists like @andy.moves and many others.

Editor in Chief: @milla_nguyen.co
Platform: @allusionmagazine
Director, editor, and director of photography: @andy.moves

I’m incredibly ecstatic to be announcing my newest and longest venture/ company platform in the making: ALLUSION MAGAZINE. A fully designed and curated magazine lead by myself as editor in chief, my team, and the Loyola Marymount community. Our magazine will feature rising filmmakers, Hollywood’s top creators, and entertainment leaders regardless of culture, education, or award winning status.

First off, I’d like to announce my brilliant creative team, who I’m extremely thankful for:
Faculty Advisor: Weiko Lin
Director of Visual Media: Evan Odinsoff
Director of Content: Kurtis Williams
Director of Events: Anna Lei
Business & Data Consultant: Anusha Natarajan

Second, I’d like to extend my sincerest thank you to Weiko Lin who served as our biggest supporter. And beyond that, to LMU for creating a space for student MFA filmmakers who are still finding their creative voice.

LMU STUDENTS ONLY (for now) (alumni & current): If you’re interested in applying to be a writer / joining our community, the contributor form is in my bio + on our website (on the join page). Get your work published and gain networking/event benefits! For production crew + photographers who are willing to work with us, please fill out the same contributor form on the join page. For filmmakers, if you would like to be featured, please fill out the get featured form on the join page. #Underrated is a section specifically for up and coming filmmakers with a smaller audience. The Vicarious Column showcases personal stories of industry veterans and icons. The AM crew initiative features all students + professional crew who collaborate with us!

I’m so excited to see what’s to come and how Allusion Magazine will evolve in the future of the industry.

Last, a tremendous thank you to @orlandopelagio for this beautiful shoot and for your spirit, soul, and mind. You inspire me. Thank you to my parents, my sister, my family, closest friends, mentors, peers, and community who have always stood behind me sincerely. I’m eternally grateful for you.

Follow us at @allusionmagazine & on all platforms (X, TikTok, Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube, and our website)

I’m incredibly ecstatic to be announcing my newest and longest venture/ company platform in the making: ALLUSION MAGAZINE. A fully designed and curated magazine lead by myself as editor in chief, my team, and the Loyola Marymount community. Our magazine will feature rising filmmakers, Hollywood’s top creators, and entertainment leaders regardless of culture, education, or award winning status.

First off, I’d like to announce my brilliant creative team, who I’m extremely thankful for:
Faculty Advisor: Weiko Lin
Director of Visual Media: Evan Odinsoff
Director of Content: Kurtis Williams
Director of Events: Anna Lei
Business & Data Consultant: Anusha Natarajan

Second, I’d like to extend my sincerest thank you to Weiko Lin who served as our biggest supporter. And beyond that, to LMU for creating a space for student MFA filmmakers who are still finding their creative voice.

LMU STUDENTS ONLY (for now) (alumni & current): If you’re interested in applying to be a writer / joining our community, the contributor form is in my bio + on our website (on the join page). Get your work published and gain networking/event benefits! For production crew + photographers who are willing to work with us, please fill out the same contributor form on the join page. For filmmakers, if you would like to be featured, please fill out the get featured form on the join page. #Underrated is a section specifically for up and coming filmmakers with a smaller audience. The Vicarious Column showcases personal stories of industry veterans and icons. The AM crew initiative features all students + professional crew who collaborate with us!

I’m so excited to see what’s to come and how Allusion Magazine will evolve in the future of the industry.

Last, a tremendous thank you to @orlandopelagio for this beautiful shoot and for your spirit, soul, and mind. You inspire me. Thank you to my parents, my sister, my family, closest friends, mentors, peers, and community who have always stood behind me sincerely. I’m eternally grateful for you.

Follow us at @allusionmagazine & on all platforms (X, TikTok, Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube, and our website)

[𝐓𝐈𝐌𝐌𝐘 𝐊𝐇𝐎𝐍𝐆 𝐒𝐎𝐎𝐍𝐊𝐇𝐎𝐍𝐆 𝐗 𝐌𝐈𝐋𝐋𝐀 𝐍𝐆𝐔𝐘𝐄𝐍]

The final part of my shoot with Timmy @eohotelpg. What a summer, so extremely grateful to have gone to Asia with my family: Taipei, Malaysia, and Singapore. Then to New York for Tribeca, then to Chicago for fun. Final stop is Arizona and back to Los Angeles soon. One of my favorite things about traveling is surprisingly not the food, the places, and the things (that are typically materialistic, as great as they may seem) but the people you meet along the way & the memories formed because of those coincidences. As a photographer, Timmy made me feel confident, comfortable, and authentic as myself. My family and I met a variety of locals, tour guides, taxi drivers, fashion designers, shop keepers, and people that were kind enough to help us in this journey across Asia. Without them, the trip wouldn’t have been as special as it was. In terms of reflecting, I didn’t want to make a set of photos of myself “deep” but I have always felt that writing what I feel is a way to connect to my community that I’m lucky to be apart of. Traveling is a luxury. It is a privilege. And my parents spent years working jobs as refugees and foreign immigrants just so my sister and I could see the world now. And I recognize that without those memories, the resources, and passion to see the world: my dad calls it “ever-evolving adventures”, I wouldn’t be the filmmaker, artist, family member, student, friend, etc. I am today.

Filmmaking, fashion, and the arts are about being curious. The desire to showcase what life looks like in different cities, different worlds, and timelines. And now that I’ve documented my summer travels so far, I can say once more that I’ve been more curious about everything & everyone more than ever. I’m grateful to keep being apart of unique projects & use my teeny tiny platform to share the stories of Timmy, locals I’ve met, and other multi-media artists I respect (their art is truly worth it and it’s an honor to see it come to life). Thank you @tietheknot_photography 🪷

[𝐓𝐈𝐌𝐌𝐘 𝐊𝐇𝐎𝐍𝐆 𝐒𝐎𝐎𝐍𝐊𝐇𝐎𝐍𝐆 𝐗 𝐌𝐈𝐋𝐋𝐀 𝐍𝐆𝐔𝐘𝐄𝐍]

The final part of my shoot with Timmy @eohotelpg. What a summer, so extremely grateful to have gone to Asia with my family: Taipei, Malaysia, and Singapore. Then to New York for Tribeca, then to Chicago for fun. Final stop is Arizona and back to Los Angeles soon. One of my favorite things about traveling is surprisingly not the food, the places, and the things (that are typically materialistic, as great as they may seem) but the people you meet along the way & the memories formed because of those coincidences. As a photographer, Timmy made me feel confident, comfortable, and authentic as myself. My family and I met a variety of locals, tour guides, taxi drivers, fashion designers, shop keepers, and people that were kind enough to help us in this journey across Asia. Without them, the trip wouldn’t have been as special as it was. In terms of reflecting, I didn’t want to make a set of photos of myself “deep” but I have always felt that writing what I feel is a way to connect to my community that I’m lucky to be apart of. Traveling is a luxury. It is a privilege. And my parents spent years working jobs as refugees and foreign immigrants just so my sister and I could see the world now. And I recognize that without those memories, the resources, and passion to see the world: my dad calls it “ever-evolving adventures”, I wouldn’t be the filmmaker, artist, family member, student, friend, etc. I am today.

Filmmaking, fashion, and the arts are about being curious. The desire to showcase what life looks like in different cities, different worlds, and timelines. And now that I’ve documented my summer travels so far, I can say once more that I’ve been more curious about everything & everyone more than ever. I’m grateful to keep being apart of unique projects & use my teeny tiny platform to share the stories of Timmy, locals I’ve met, and other multi-media artists I respect (their art is truly worth it and it’s an honor to see it come to life). Thank you @tietheknot_photography 🪷

[𝐏𝐄𝐑𝐀𝐍𝐀𝐊𝐀𝐍 𝐌𝐀𝐍𝐒𝐈𝐎𝐍: 𝐓𝐈𝐌𝐌𝐘 𝐊𝐇𝐎𝐍𝐆 𝐒𝐎𝐎𝐍𝐊𝐇𝐎𝐍𝐆 𝐗 𝐌𝐈𝐋𝐋𝐀 𝐍𝐆𝐔𝐘𝐄𝐍]

Another wonderful opportunity to have done a shoot with Timmy at Peranakan Mansion in Malaysia. The term “Peranakan” in Singapore refers to those of mixed Chinese, Indonesian, and Malay descent. The community is able to speak a variety of languages from Chinese to Malay to Hokkien. I’m wearing the Nyonya Kebaya which is often paired with Batik skirts and Kerosang brooches. It was an eye opening experience to visit an Indonesian Batik factory and see how Kebaya blouses are hand embroidered. After having traveled to Korea: the hanbok, Japan: the kimono, Taipei: the qipao, Vietnam (haven’t been yet but my family has passed down ao dai for generations), and now Malaysia: the kebaya, I realize how fashion & cultural clothing is an integral part of preserving culture and seeing the craftsmanship is what made me want to be a fashion designer in the past. It still inspires me to carry Asian elements through my Western/ American outfits 🌸

[𝐏𝐄𝐑𝐀𝐍𝐀𝐊𝐀𝐍 𝐌𝐀𝐍𝐒𝐈𝐎𝐍: 𝐓𝐈𝐌𝐌𝐘 𝐊𝐇𝐎𝐍𝐆 𝐒𝐎𝐎𝐍𝐊𝐇𝐎𝐍𝐆 𝐗 𝐌𝐈𝐋𝐋𝐀 𝐍𝐆𝐔𝐘𝐄𝐍]

Another wonderful opportunity to have done a shoot with Timmy at Peranakan Mansion in Malaysia. The term “Peranakan” in Singapore refers to those of mixed Chinese, Indonesian, and Malay descent. The community is able to speak a variety of languages from Chinese to Malay to Hokkien. I’m wearing the Nyonya Kebaya which is often paired with Batik skirts and Kerosang brooches. It was an eye opening experience to visit an Indonesian Batik factory and see how Kebaya blouses are hand embroidered. After having traveled to Korea: the hanbok, Japan: the kimono, Taipei: the qipao, Vietnam (haven’t been yet but my family has passed down ao dai for generations), and now Malaysia: the kebaya, I realize how fashion & cultural clothing is an integral part of preserving culture and seeing the craftsmanship is what made me want to be a fashion designer in the past. It still inspires me to carry Asian elements through my Western/ American outfits 🌸

[𝐋𝐈𝐕𝐈𝐍𝐆 𝐋𝐔𝐗𝐔𝐑𝐘 𝐀𝐓 𝐄𝐀𝐒𝐓𝐄𝐑𝐍 &̶ 𝐎𝐑𝐈𝐄𝐍𝐓𝐀𝐋 𝐇𝐎𝐓𝐄𝐋: 𝐓𝐈𝐌𝐌𝐘 𝐊𝐇𝐎𝐍𝐆 𝐒𝐎𝐎𝐍𝐊𝐎𝐍𝐆 𝐗 𝐌𝐈𝐋𝐋𝐀 𝐍𝐆𝐔𝐘𝐄𝐍] @eohotelpg #eohpg

A true honor to have worked with Timmy when my family and I traveled to Penang, Malaysia. Thank you to Eastern & Oriental for the best hospitality & experience, the shoot / stay was so fun! Timmy is a passionate photographer who is Mpa, Wppi & Wppa qualified. He is a multiple international award winning photographer. While he is based in Penang, Malaysia, he loves to travel around the world while searching for the best shots & photos.

Definitely check out Timmy’s page, book him for editorial shoots, wedding shoots, you name it. And absolutely check in to Eastern & Oriental hotel during your stay in Penang, Malaysia. Fun fact: “Crazy Rich Asians”, the 2018 romantic comedy that features an all AAPI cast, shot the beginning scenes of Michelle Yeoh in this very hotel. It is not only a comfort movie but one that broke Asian / Asian American stereotypes in film and media, opening doors for a lot of the community. So glad to have experienced this location and many more in Singapore 🤍

[𝐋𝐈𝐕𝐈𝐍𝐆 𝐋𝐔𝐗𝐔𝐑𝐘 𝐀𝐓 𝐄𝐀𝐒𝐓𝐄𝐑𝐍 &̶ 𝐎𝐑𝐈𝐄𝐍𝐓𝐀𝐋 𝐇𝐎𝐓𝐄𝐋: 𝐓𝐈𝐌𝐌𝐘 𝐊𝐇𝐎𝐍𝐆 𝐒𝐎𝐎𝐍𝐊𝐎𝐍𝐆 𝐗 𝐌𝐈𝐋𝐋𝐀 𝐍𝐆𝐔𝐘𝐄𝐍] @eohotelpg #eohpg

A true honor to have worked with Timmy when my family and I traveled to Penang, Malaysia. Thank you to Eastern & Oriental for the best hospitality & experience, the shoot / stay was so fun! Timmy is a passionate photographer who is Mpa, Wppi & Wppa qualified. He is a multiple international award winning photographer. While he is based in Penang, Malaysia, he loves to travel around the world while searching for the best shots & photos.

Definitely check out Timmy’s page, book him for editorial shoots, wedding shoots, you name it. And absolutely check in to Eastern & Oriental hotel during your stay in Penang, Malaysia. Fun fact: “Crazy Rich Asians”, the 2018 romantic comedy that features an all AAPI cast, shot the beginning scenes of Michelle Yeoh in this very hotel. It is not only a comfort movie but one that broke Asian / Asian American stereotypes in film and media, opening doors for a lot of the community. So glad to have experienced this location and many more in Singapore 🤍

[PROFESSIONAL INQUIRIES ONLY] I’d also like to say that I’m grateful. Shout out to Culture Talk with Anusha & friends, Rise the the Top with Weiko & crew, ASU film school, LMU film school, and my mom. I’ve learned a lot about designing over the years because of these experiences. As a side business, I will now be taking film poster design inquiries for filmmakers. While I’m busy with graduate school work, I’m not able to take loads at a time and it’ll vary by case by case basis (the story, duration, and type of design, type of film) and I might quote a small rate or not (depending how well I know the filmmakers vision). If you’d like to browse, visit the film poster designs section on my website. link in bio!

[PROFESSIONAL INQUIRIES ONLY] I’d also like to say that I’m grateful. Shout out to Culture Talk with Anusha & friends, Rise the the Top with Weiko & crew, ASU film school, LMU film school, and my mom. I’ve learned a lot about designing over the years because of these experiences. As a side business, I will now be taking film poster design inquiries for filmmakers. While I’m busy with graduate school work, I’m not able to take loads at a time and it’ll vary by case by case basis (the story, duration, and type of design, type of film) and I might quote a small rate or not (depending how well I know the filmmakers vision). If you’d like to browse, visit the film poster designs section on my website. link in bio!

Grapefruit mock up ideas for the poster

Grapefruit mock up ideas for the poster

[JESSICA LIU X MILLA NGUYEN]

🍊I’m so excited to reveal my design of the “Grapefruit” short film poster. The short was recently shown at VC media fest @vcmediaorg & will be showing at the Houston Asian American Pacific Islander film festival @haapifest . Grapefruit is a story about passion, femininity, and acceptance of these desires. A little bit about the director, Jessica Liu: a filmmaker raised between Shanghai & the bay. She has been selected at Academy qualifying film festivals and her comedy feature “Ming & the Banana” was a Sundance development Track second rounder. She has also been selected for the Alliance of Women Directors’ Fellowship, the Frieze LA fellowship, and many more.

One of my favorite things in the film industry is to collaborate with AAPI directors and women of color filmmakers in general. I’m honored to have worked with Jessica, Kimberly, and the team for this design.

⭐️ [PROFESSIONAL INQUIRIES ONLY] I’d also like to say that I’m grateful. Shout out to Culture Talk with Anusha & friends, Rise the the Top with Weiko & crew, ASU film school, LMU film school, and my mom. I’ve learned a lot about designing over the years because of these experiences. As a side business, I will now be taking film poster design inquiries for filmmakers. While I’m busy with graduate school work, I’m not able to take loads at a time and it’ll vary by case by case basis (the story, duration, and type of design, type of film) and I might quote a small rate or not (depending how well I know the filmmakers vision). If you’d like to browse, visit the film poster designs section on my website. link in bio!

Director / writer: @jessicajliu
Produced by: @jessicajliu @kimberlydivad @okaynandi
DP: @ino.dp
Talent: @kimberlydivad & @heyhanawu
Screenplay by: @jessicajliu & @kimberlydivad
Locations manager: @okaynandi
Assistant Director: @kaywritesstuff
1st Assistant camera: Justin Jones
2nd Assistant camera: @joshuamoriconi
Gaffer: @lordbyronious
Key grip: @sorenhigher
Best boy: Andrew Suarez
Sound recordist: John Dayot
Sound design by: @mixedbykat
Colorist: Jesus Borrego
Visual effects / editor: @sylbialin
Production designer: @masha.lyass

[JESSICA LIU X MILLA NGUYEN]

🍊I’m so excited to reveal my design of the “Grapefruit” short film poster. The short was recently shown at VC media fest @vcmediaorg & will be showing at the Houston Asian American Pacific Islander film festival @haapifest . Grapefruit is a story about passion, femininity, and acceptance of these desires. A little bit about the director, Jessica Liu: a filmmaker raised between Shanghai & the bay. She has been selected at Academy qualifying film festivals and her comedy feature “Ming & the Banana” was a Sundance development Track second rounder. She has also been selected for the Alliance of Women Directors’ Fellowship, the Frieze LA fellowship, and many more.

One of my favorite things in the film industry is to collaborate with AAPI directors and women of color filmmakers in general. I’m honored to have worked with Jessica, Kimberly, and the team for this design.

⭐️ [PROFESSIONAL INQUIRIES ONLY] I’d also like to say that I’m grateful. Shout out to Culture Talk with Anusha & friends, Rise the the Top with Weiko & crew, ASU film school, LMU film school, and my mom. I’ve learned a lot about designing over the years because of these experiences. As a side business, I will now be taking film poster design inquiries for filmmakers. While I’m busy with graduate school work, I’m not able to take loads at a time and it’ll vary by case by case basis (the story, duration, and type of design, type of film) and I might quote a small rate or not (depending how well I know the filmmakers vision). If you’d like to browse, visit the film poster designs section on my website. link in bio!

Director / writer: @jessicajliu
Produced by: @jessicajliu @kimberlydivad @okaynandi
DP: @ino.dp
Talent: @kimberlydivad & @heyhanawu
Screenplay by: @jessicajliu & @kimberlydivad
Locations manager: @okaynandi
Assistant Director: @kaywritesstuff
1st Assistant camera: Justin Jones
2nd Assistant camera: @joshuamoriconi
Gaffer: @lordbyronious
Key grip: @sorenhigher
Best boy: Andrew Suarez
Sound recordist: John Dayot
Sound design by: @mixedbykat
Colorist: Jesus Borrego
Visual effects / editor: @sylbialin
Production designer: @masha.lyass

On Monday, April 8, the sky will momentarily darken for millions of Americans in the path of totality during the 2024 solar eclipse. This is the first total solar eclipse to pass through North America in seven years, and the next one will not be seen from the contiguous U.S. until Aug. 23, 2044, according to NASA.

On Monday, April 8, the sky will momentarily darken for millions of Americans in the path of totality during the 2024 solar eclipse. This is the first total solar eclipse to pass through North America in seven years, and the next one will not be seen from the contiguous U.S. until Aug. 23, 2044, according to NASA.

phase ll — transformation

phase ll — transformation

On Monday, April 8, the sky will momentarily darken for millions of Americans in the path of totality during the 2024 solar eclipse. This is the first total solar eclipse to pass through North America in seven years, and the next one will not be seen from the contiguous U.S. until Aug. 23, 2044, according to NASA.

On Monday, April 8, the sky will momentarily darken for millions of Americans in the path of totality during the 2024 solar eclipse. This is the first total solar eclipse to pass through North America in seven years, and the next one will not be seen from the contiguous U.S. until Aug. 23, 2044, according to NASA.

The program

The program

Final & mock up ideas for the poster

Final & mock up ideas for the poster

As I reflect upon the first ever live musical performance of “Rise to the Top”, I can’t stress enough how extremely grateful I am to be mentored, guided, and taught by @weikolin - upon arriving to LMU, I had always wished to find a professor who I could not only connect with but truly learn from. I am honored to have been trusted by him to design the title design, programs, flyers, social media, and more.

“Rise To the Top” is about a young immigrant from Hong Kong who achieves the American dream as a celebrity chef while grappling to fit into Americana at great sacrifices.

Credits:
Book and Lyrics written by @weikolin
He is LMU’s graduate screenwriting director. His plays have been performed at UCLA, the David Henry Hwang Theater, and more. Also finalists for numerous fellowships. Professor Lin is a member of WGA and represented by UTA/ Anonymous content!

Music and Lyrics written by Christopher Wong @christopherwongmusic. He has become one of the top composers in Vietnam’s film industry, scoring 49 feature films and twice winning Vietnam’s Oscar equivalent Golden Lotus for Best Original Score!

Produced by Jenni Trang Le @jennitrangle. In 2009, she moved to Sai Gon and produced 14 feature films before moving back to LA. Her project “Maika” was selected for Sundance 22’. She recently wrapped production as the Vietnamese Dialogue Consultant for HBO/A24’s “The Sympathizer”!

Directed by Henry Chan. He is a director of theater, film, and tv. He won a Primetime Emmy Award for editing and has directed over 200 episodes of television for major networks! Works include “100 days” and “Rich House, Poor House”.

Cast:
Charlie Kim
Paul Wong
Parissa Koo
Leo Ayala
Olivia Kuper Harris
Frankie Zabilka
Jessica DeShong
Vivien Ngo

Finally, it was an incredible honor to be surrounded by talented and powerful AAPI creatives who continue to inspire the LA Community and I was just grateful to even have a small part in the production! Congratulations to the cast as well who put on a phenomenal performance of music, emotions, and intention. Thank you for allowing me to be a part of this! @weikolin 🦆🌮🐉🎆

As I reflect upon the first ever live musical performance of “Rise to the Top”, I can’t stress enough how extremely grateful I am to be mentored, guided, and taught by @weikolin - upon arriving to LMU, I had always wished to find a professor who I could not only connect with but truly learn from. I am honored to have been trusted by him to design the title design, programs, flyers, social media, and more.

“Rise To the Top” is about a young immigrant from Hong Kong who achieves the American dream as a celebrity chef while grappling to fit into Americana at great sacrifices.

Credits:
Book and Lyrics written by @weikolin
He is LMU’s graduate screenwriting director. His plays have been performed at UCLA, the David Henry Hwang Theater, and more. Also finalists for numerous fellowships. Professor Lin is a member of WGA and represented by UTA/ Anonymous content!

Music and Lyrics written by Christopher Wong @christopherwongmusic. He has become one of the top composers in Vietnam’s film industry, scoring 49 feature films and twice winning Vietnam’s Oscar equivalent Golden Lotus for Best Original Score!

Produced by Jenni Trang Le @jennitrangle. In 2009, she moved to Sai Gon and produced 14 feature films before moving back to LA. Her project “Maika” was selected for Sundance 22’. She recently wrapped production as the Vietnamese Dialogue Consultant for HBO/A24’s “The Sympathizer”!

Directed by Henry Chan. He is a director of theater, film, and tv. He won a Primetime Emmy Award for editing and has directed over 200 episodes of television for major networks! Works include “100 days” and “Rich House, Poor House”.

Cast:
Charlie Kim
Paul Wong
Parissa Koo
Leo Ayala
Olivia Kuper Harris
Frankie Zabilka
Jessica DeShong
Vivien Ngo

Finally, it was an incredible honor to be surrounded by talented and powerful AAPI creatives who continue to inspire the LA Community and I was just grateful to even have a small part in the production! Congratulations to the cast as well who put on a phenomenal performance of music, emotions, and intention. Thank you for allowing me to be a part of this! @weikolin 🦆🌮🐉🎆

Extremely grateful and an honor to have been interviewed by @vietfilmfest for a deeper look inside of @iwantyoutolive_thefilm and how the film was made

Link: https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=DJ-dIpQ6SxI

More than the film itself, it is so refreshing to see Viet Film fest continue to be a film festival leader and platform in promoting Vietnamese / AAPI filmmakers. The festival is full of heart, authenticity, and meaningful questions that get you thinking: how did the director write this film? Who worked on this film and what are their lived experiences? Why did this happen in their stories? Asking these questions is so incredibly important in filmmaking and I’m so happy to be selected for this year’s shorts fest. Thank you for taking the time to speak with me about my story, I hope I can help trailblaze for the next generation of Vietnamese and AAPI filmmakers even if I can contribute just a little 🤍

Extremely grateful and an honor to have been interviewed by @vietfilmfest for a deeper look inside of @iwantyoutolive_thefilm and how the film was made

Link: https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=DJ-dIpQ6SxI

More than the film itself, it is so refreshing to see Viet Film fest continue to be a film festival leader and platform in promoting Vietnamese / AAPI filmmakers. The festival is full of heart, authenticity, and meaningful questions that get you thinking: how did the director write this film? Who worked on this film and what are their lived experiences? Why did this happen in their stories? Asking these questions is so incredibly important in filmmaking and I’m so happy to be selected for this year’s shorts fest. Thank you for taking the time to speak with me about my story, I hope I can help trailblaze for the next generation of Vietnamese and AAPI filmmakers even if I can contribute just a little 🤍

Some behind the scenes flicks of @iwantyoutolive_thefilm I didn’t have a chance to post on here! 🎬

𝑲𝒆𝒆𝒑 𝒚𝒐𝒖𝒓 𝒇𝒂𝒎𝒊𝒍𝒚 𝒄𝒍𝒐𝒔𝒆. @iwantyoutolive_thefilm

Director: Milla Nguyen @milla_nguyen.co

Producers: Julio Ramirez & Brian Nguyen

Director of Photography: Juliet Falanco

Editor: Faith Popov

Production Designer: Meghan McCullin

1st Assistant Director: Nick Janaye

2nd Assistant Director: Jess Gonzalez

1st Assistant Camera: Cameron Decuna

2nd Assistant Camera + catering: Simon Suminski

Art director: Ana Masley

Wardrobe: Faith Rodriquez

Makeup + Hair: Tannis Starr

Lead Gaffer: Alex Negritto

Key grip: Joe Briones

Best boy grip: Joe Nixon

Grip: Connor Burklow

Grip: Brandon Floor

Sound Mixer: Gavin Sondrup

Sound Designer and mixer: Cami Gregory

Boom operator: Alejandro Hernandez

Script Supervisor: Brian Calo

Marketing strategies assistant: Aarushi Bharti

Production assistant: Andrew Felix

Production assistant: Dylan Tate

Production assistant: Tierney Keegan

Production assistant: Brian Le

BTS photographers: Logan O’ Neil @logancreativity @_loganoneill

and Ananyaa Mahajan @ananyaa.mahajan

Cast:
Natalie Jenq as Lia

Shannon Speagle as Mrs. Elizabeth

Aaron Ott as Jonah

McKenna Garvey as Amelia

Karsten Flake as Marie

Brian Nguyen as the mail man

Milla Nguyen as herself

Special thanks to:
The ASU Sidney Poitier New American film school & the Herberger Institute for Design and the Arts,
Professor Gene Ganssle, Professor Horacio Velasquez-Melo, Professor Janaki Cedanna, Professor Rodrigo Meirelles, Professor Micha Espinosa, and Kristin O’ Connell

Some behind the scenes flicks of @iwantyoutolive_thefilm I didn’t have a chance to post on here! 🎬

𝑲𝒆𝒆𝒑 𝒚𝒐𝒖𝒓 𝒇𝒂𝒎𝒊𝒍𝒚 𝒄𝒍𝒐𝒔𝒆. @iwantyoutolive_thefilm

Director: Milla Nguyen @milla_nguyen.co

Producers: Julio Ramirez & Brian Nguyen

Director of Photography: Juliet Falanco

Editor: Faith Popov

Production Designer: Meghan McCullin

1st Assistant Director: Nick Janaye

2nd Assistant Director: Jess Gonzalez

1st Assistant Camera: Cameron Decuna

2nd Assistant Camera + catering: Simon Suminski

Art director: Ana Masley

Wardrobe: Faith Rodriquez

Makeup + Hair: Tannis Starr

Lead Gaffer: Alex Negritto

Key grip: Joe Briones

Best boy grip: Joe Nixon

Grip: Connor Burklow

Grip: Brandon Floor

Sound Mixer: Gavin Sondrup

Sound Designer and mixer: Cami Gregory

Boom operator: Alejandro Hernandez

Script Supervisor: Brian Calo

Marketing strategies assistant: Aarushi Bharti

Production assistant: Andrew Felix

Production assistant: Dylan Tate

Production assistant: Tierney Keegan

Production assistant: Brian Le

BTS photographers: Logan O’ Neil @logancreativity @_loganoneill

and Ananyaa Mahajan @ananyaa.mahajan

Cast:
Natalie Jenq as Lia

Shannon Speagle as Mrs. Elizabeth

Aaron Ott as Jonah

McKenna Garvey as Amelia

Karsten Flake as Marie

Brian Nguyen as the mail man

Milla Nguyen as herself

Special thanks to:
The ASU Sidney Poitier New American film school & the Herberger Institute for Design and the Arts,
Professor Gene Ganssle, Professor Horacio Velasquez-Melo, Professor Janaki Cedanna, Professor Rodrigo Meirelles, Professor Micha Espinosa, and Kristin O’ Connell

₣ɄⱠⱠ ĐłVɆ ⱠØ₳Đł₦₲… ₵Ø₦VɆⱤ₲Ɇ₦₵Ɇ ⱫɆⱤØ ₣łVɆ

Photography by: @keen_screen_media
Edits by: @milla_nguyen.co

₣ɄⱠⱠ ĐłVɆ ⱠØ₳Đł₦₲… ₵Ø₦VɆⱤ₲Ɇ₦₵Ɇ ⱫɆⱤØ ₣łVɆ

Photography by: @keen_screen_media
Edits by: @milla_nguyen.co

Official selection for AFF (Asian Film Festival) in Los Angeles + posted on their website

https://asianfilmfestival.us/?p=85670

Official selection for AFF (Asian Film Festival) in Los Angeles + posted on their website

https://asianfilmfestival.us/?p=85670

“She Smiles Back” a short film

Written, directed, and shot by: @kurtis_williams_

Actors: @milla_nguyen.co & @dragontrapper20

“She Smiles Back” a short film

Written, directed, and shot by: @kurtis_williams_

Actors: @milla_nguyen.co & @dragontrapper20

Thank you Canvas Rebel for the feature!

I talk about filmmaking, social media, my passion for the arts, and AAPI representation. Link in bio for the full article!

Image of me taken by Micah Rind

Film set photo of “I Want You to Live” taken by Logan O’ Neill

Model photo taken by Misplacedsurfferphotography, styled by Mozzerati for a show hosted by Shannon Love

Culture talk mag on @culturetalknet by Milla Nguyen & Anusha Natarajan

Thank you Canvas Rebel for the feature!

I talk about filmmaking, social media, my passion for the arts, and AAPI representation. Link in bio for the full article!

Image of me taken by Micah Rind

Film set photo of “I Want You to Live” taken by Logan O’ Neill

Model photo taken by Misplacedsurfferphotography, styled by Mozzerati for a show hosted by Shannon Love

Culture talk mag on @culturetalknet by Milla Nguyen & Anusha Natarajan

Loyola Marymount University Story Rush presentation/ feature film pitch: “The Elysian Experience” by Group 3

Posters & story ad designed by: Milla Nguyen

Created by: Milla Nguyen, Julianne Yonano, Leslie Dame, Minnie Cooper, Lidong Wang, Mari Melnichenko, Lisa Shiomi, Nadia Ross, Amanda Lei, and Wayne

-marketing strategies by: Nadia
-marketing visuals by: Milla
-logline and synopsis by Julianne
-references by: Leslie
-cinematography stills by: Minnie
-story acts by: Mari & Wayne
-budgeting and finances sheet by: Lidong
-casting and directors by: Lisa
-conclusion by: Amanda

Logline and summary: “In the year 4090, Celeste leaves her troubled life behind to escape to ‘the Void’, a simulation paradise offering an escape from life’s trials. A mysterious figure guides her through the Void and to the realization that she always had the strength and agency to overcome her past struggles.”

(Potential casting):
Zoe Saldana
Steven Yeun

All background art work + images of Zoe Saldana / Steven Yeun go to rightful artists and photographers + project is for educational purposes only!

Loyola Marymount University Story Rush presentation/ feature film pitch: “The Elysian Experience” by Group 3

Posters & story ad designed by: Milla Nguyen

Created by: Milla Nguyen, Julianne Yonano, Leslie Dame, Minnie Cooper, Lidong Wang, Mari Melnichenko, Lisa Shiomi, Nadia Ross, Amanda Lei, and Wayne

-marketing strategies by: Nadia
-marketing visuals by: Milla
-logline and synopsis by Julianne
-references by: Leslie
-cinematography stills by: Minnie
-story acts by: Mari & Wayne
-budgeting and finances sheet by: Lidong
-casting and directors by: Lisa
-conclusion by: Amanda

Logline and summary: “In the year 4090, Celeste leaves her troubled life behind to escape to ‘the Void’, a simulation paradise offering an escape from life’s trials. A mysterious figure guides her through the Void and to the realization that she always had the strength and agency to overcome her past struggles.”

(Potential casting):
Zoe Saldana
Steven Yeun

All background art work + images of Zoe Saldana / Steven Yeun go to rightful artists and photographers + project is for educational purposes only!

𝑷𝑨𝑹𝑻 𝑰𝑰𝑰. 𝑭𝑰𝑹𝑬 𝑩𝑳𝑶𝑺𝑺𝑶𝑴

photography & creative direction by: @orlandopelagio

𝑷𝑨𝑹𝑻 𝑰𝑰𝑰. 𝑭𝑰𝑹𝑬 𝑩𝑳𝑶𝑺𝑺𝑶𝑴

photography & creative direction by: @orlandopelagio

𝑷𝑨𝑹𝑻 𝑰𝑰. 𝑶𝑪𝑬𝑨𝑵 𝑾𝑨𝑽𝑬𝑺

creative direction & photography by: @orlandopelagio

𝑷𝑨𝑹𝑻 𝑰𝑰. 𝑶𝑪𝑬𝑨𝑵 𝑾𝑨𝑽𝑬𝑺

creative direction & photography by: @orlandopelagio

𝑷𝑨𝑹𝑻 𝑰. 𝑬𝑪𝑳𝑰𝑷𝑺𝑬 (𝔱𝔥𝔢 𝔯𝔢𝔠𝔬𝔯𝔡)

photography & creative direction by: @orlandopelagio

𝑷𝑨𝑹𝑻 𝑰. 𝑬𝑪𝑳𝑰𝑷𝑺𝑬 (𝔱𝔥𝔢 𝔯𝔢𝔠𝔬𝔯𝔡)

photography & creative direction by: @orlandopelagio

How many of us accept metanoia? accept change? via Pinterest

How many of us accept metanoia? accept change? via Pinterest

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