Kaiwen Li
- Director
- Writer
Kaiwen Li's journey to filmmaking began on the streets of Northeastern China, where he sold "cut" CDs and DVDs - discarded media from the West shipped to China for recycling - to his peers at school. This early film education instilled a sense of irreverence, rebellion and practicality in his understanding and approach to cinema.
He later honed his craft at Rhode Island School of Design and Brown University. Among other school projects, he notably created a guitar capable of live film performances, akin to a DJ's live music set. His creativity caught the attention of VICE Media, who hired him to lead documentary production in their newly opened China office. His works spotlighted underrepresented topics like underground battle rap, LGBT life, and movements in the art scenes, significantly influencing Chinese subculture.
He later lead documentary production at Discovery Channel under Warner Bros. Discovery Asia Pacific, aiming to update the brand and engage younger audiences. Outside of documentaries, he has crafted successful commercials for global brands such as Airbnb, Burger King, P&G, Beats, and Huawei, known for their authentic connection with the audience, and innovation in aesthetics.
He later honed his craft at Rhode Island School of Design and Brown University. Among other school projects, he notably created a guitar capable of live film performances, akin to a DJ's live music set. His creativity caught the attention of VICE Media, who hired him to lead documentary production in their newly opened China office. His works spotlighted underrepresented topics like underground battle rap, LGBT life, and movements in the art scenes, significantly influencing Chinese subculture.
He later lead documentary production at Discovery Channel under Warner Bros. Discovery Asia Pacific, aiming to update the brand and engage younger audiences. Outside of documentaries, he has crafted successful commercials for global brands such as Airbnb, Burger King, P&G, Beats, and Huawei, known for their authentic connection with the audience, and innovation in aesthetics.